Name: Chewy Maraschino Cherry Cookies That Wow Every Bite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 48 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (Essential for creating the chewy cookie base.); 2 tsp cornstarch (Contributes to a softer cookie texture.); 1 tsp baking soda (Ensures cookies puff up during baking.); 0.25 tsp salt (Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Provides richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.); 1.25 cups light brown sugar (Adds a caramel-like taste.); 0.25 cup granulated sugar (Complements the brown sugar sweetness.); 2 large eggs (Helps hold the cookie together for a chewy texture.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Adds warmth to the cookie.); 0.125 tsp almond extract (Adds a subtle nutty note, can be omitted for nut allergies.); pink gel food coloring (Creates a cheerful appearance; optional.); 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (Pairs well with cherries and adds rich flavor.); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Provides juicy bursts of sweetness in these Maraschino Cherry Cookies.)

As I pulled a batch of freshly baked Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven, the sweet, fruity aroma immediately transformed my kitchen into a cozy haven. These cookies offer a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip recipe, combining chewy chocolate goodness with vibrant bursts of cherry. What sets them apart? Besides being irresistibly delicious, they come together in under 40 minutes and require no complicated techniques, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. And for those seeking variety, you’ll find gluten-free and vegan options that ensure everyone can join in on the fun. Are you ready to elevate your cookie game and impress your loved ones with this delightful treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Deliciously Unique: Each bite of these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies offers a delightful contrast of chewy chocolate and juicy cherry flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, these cookies are perfect for busy bakers who crave homemade goodness without the fuss.
Adaptable for All: The recipe includes gluten-free and vegan twists, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this tasty treat whether it’s a weekend gathering or a cozy night in.
Nostalgic Flavor: The nostalgic touch of maraschino cherries adds a sweet, fruity twist reminiscent of childhood desserts. You might also enjoy pairing these with Vanilla Ice Cream or trying out Vegan Lemon Cookies for a refreshing contrast.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends, making them a fantastic choice for parties, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake a delightful treat!

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour (3 cups / 360g) – Essential for creating the chewy cookie base.
Cornstarch (2 tsp) – Contributes to a softer cookie texture.
Baking soda (1 tsp) – Ensures cookies puff up during baking.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.

For the Wet Mixture

Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g) – Provides richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Light brown sugar (1¼ cups / 267g) – Adds a caramel-like taste.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup / 50g) – Complements the brown sugar sweetness.
Large eggs (2) – Helps hold the cookie together for a chewy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth to the cookie.
Almond extract (⅛ tsp) – Adds a subtle nutty note, can be omitted for nut allergies.
Pink gel food coloring – Creates a cheerful appearance; optional.

For the Flavor

Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups / 12 oz bag) – Pairs well with cherries and adds rich flavor.
Maraschino cherries (1 cup, drained and finely chopped) – Provides juicy bursts of sweetness in these Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This preparation is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish on your cookies, so ensure your baking sheet is ready for those delightful Maraschino Cherry Cookies!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This combination will help create the chewy texture you’re looking for in your Maraschino Cherry Cookies. Once well mixed, set this dry mixture aside, as you will soon blend it into the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a stand mixer or a handheld electric mixer, beat together 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter, 1¼ cups of light brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step adds air, resulting in a lovely texture for your cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Now, add in 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon of almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined. This is where the flavor magic starts, as these wet ingredients meld perfectly together to add depth and richness to your Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Step 5: Add a Touch of Color
If you’d like a fun twist, mix in a small amount of pink gel food coloring until the desired hue is achieved. This step is optional but adds a cheerful pop of color to your Maraschino Cherry Cookies, making them visually appealing as well as delectable.

Step 6: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just fully combined. Be careful not to overmix—this is key! The dough should come together beautifully, creating a perfect base for the chewy cookies you’re about to bake.

Step 7: Fold in the Goodies
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Ensure even distribution throughout the dough. This is where the fun adds flavor and texture, as those juicy cherries and rich chocolate come together harmoniously in your Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Step 8: Scoop the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out cookie dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. Press in a few extra cherries and chocolate chips on top for that perfect presentation.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when they’re just set but still soft in the center. This timing is crucial to achieve that irresistible chewy texture that makes these Maraschino Cherry Cookies a delightful treat!

Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This helps them firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. After they’ve cooled completely, they’re ready to be enjoyed or stored in an airtight container!

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Chill the Dough: If you want even softer cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will enhance flavor and texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking! Cookies should be soft to the touch when you remove them from the oven for that ideal chewy Maraschino Cherry Cookies experience.
Space Them Out: For even baking, ensure you space your cookies a few inches apart on the baking sheet; around 8 cookies per sheet is ideal.
Customize Your Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors—try adding citrus zest, nuts, or even a dash of spice to elevate your cookies!
Proper Storage: Store your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.

Make Ahead Options

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors. Alternatively, you can scoop individual cookie balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the freezer and bake for 1-2 minutes longer than the original recipe suggests. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies on a whim, just as delicious and delightful as if they were made from scratch in perfect time!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful Maraschino Cherry Cookies with these fun variations and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative. Your gluten-sensitive friends will be thrilled!
Vegan: For a plant-based option, swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter, and use flaxseed eggs instead. This ensures everyone can enjoy a cookie without compromise.
Add Citrus: A tablespoon of orange zest can elevate the flavor profile beautifully, adding a bright and refreshing twist.
Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. The nutty texture complements the chewy cookie base perfectly.
Mint Flavor: Introduce a few drops of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist that brings a festive vibe to your cookies.
Spicy Variation: For some unexpected warmth, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. It creates a delightful contrast that surprises your taste buds!

For a change of pace, why not try these Matcha Butter Cookies or consider pairing these cookies with some fresh toppings? Mix things up for a truly customizable experience!

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Savor the delightful contrast of flavors and textures while creating a well-rounded dessert spread to complement these vibrant cookies.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy creaminess contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookies, creating a nostalgic ice cream sundae experience.
Fresh Berries Medley: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide a refreshing burst that balances the cookies’ sweetness. With their natural acidity, they play a delightful role in the dessert ensemble.
Chocolate Milkshake: Pairing the cookies with a rich and thick chocolate milkshake enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a fun, indulgent twist.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, making each bite feel less heavy and more delightful.
Coffee or Espresso: Enjoy your cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the chocolatey notes while providing a nostalgic café vibe.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies adds extra sweetness and a gooey texture that elevates the entire dessert experience.
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits offers a light, refreshing contrast and a touch of brightness to counterbalance the rich flavors of the cookies.
Milk or Nut Milk: Whether you prefer traditional cow’s milk or a nut milk alternative, a chilled glass pairs deliciously with Maraschino Cherry Cookies, enhancing every bite.

Storage Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Refrigerator: You can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out or absorbing other odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just place them directly in the oven!

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of maraschino cherries should I use?
Absolutely! You want to use high-quality maraschino cherries that are vibrant in color and have a sweet flavor. Look for cherries without artificial coloring or preservatives if possible. Draining and finely chopping them helps distribute their delightful flavor evenly throughout the cookies.

How should I store Maraschino Cherry Cookies?
Store your delicious Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which extends freshness to about a week. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid any drying or absorbing of odors.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months! Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a zip-top freezer bag. For baking, there’s no need to thaw—just bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies are too dry?
If your cookies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To adjust, ensure you’re spooning the flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off without packing it in. Also, keep a close eye on the bake time; cookies should be soft in the center when you take them out!

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very! You can easily make these Maraschino Cherry Cookies nut-free by omitting the almond extract, which is primarily for flavor enhancement. If you’re adding any alternative nuts like walnuts or pecans, just be sure to check for any allergies among your guests or family.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Of course! For a gluten-free version of these Maraschino Cherry Cookies, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur’s Flour work beautifully. Just follow the recipe as directed, and you’ll have a delightful gluten-free treat everyone can enjoy!