These Easy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a fun twist on the classic treat! Sweet cherries and rich chocolate chips come together in a soft cookie that is sure to please everyone.
I love how the cherries add a pop of color and a burst of flavor! Plus, they make my kitchen smell amazing while baking. Give them a try, and watch them disappear quickly! 🍪❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Both work well and provide a tasty base for your cookies!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for a gluten-free version, substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. This keeps the texture similar while accommodating dietary needs.
Maraschino Cherries: These cherries add sweetness and fun colors. If they’re hard to find, you can use fresh cherries or dried cherries instead. Just chop them up and adjust the sugar slightly if they’re not sweetened.
Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chips work perfectly, but feel free to swap them with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate depending on your taste. I personally love mixing different types for added flavor!
Nuts: Chopped nuts add a nice crunch. If you’re allergic or prefer nut-free cookies, just leave them out. The cookies will still taste amazing!
How Do I Ensure My Cookies Are Soft and Chewy?
Achieving that soft and chewy cookie texture is key! Here are some important techniques to keep in mind:
- Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. Cream it well with sugars to incorporate air.
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Just gently fold until combined.
- Take cookies out of the oven when the edges are golden but the centers look slightly undercooked. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet initially. This lets them firm up without getting too dry.
Following these tips will help you enjoy deliciously soft and chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies every time!
Easy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Time Needed:
This delightful cookie recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 9-11 minutes for baking. So, in about 30-35 minutes total, you’ll have warm cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, you can get everything else ready!
2. Prepare the Baking Sheets:
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or spatula to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to add that wonderful aroma!
5. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to keep your cookies consistent in flavor and texture.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
7. Add the Cherries and Chocolate:
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips (along with nuts if you’re using them). Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Shape the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake.
9. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might still look a little soft—that’s perfect!
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them set. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious cookies warm or at room temperature!
These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet maraschino cherry flavor combined with melty chocolate chips—perfect for sharing during the holidays or any time you need a sweet treat!
FAQ for Easy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and chop them before adding to the dough. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may not be as sweet as maraschino cherries, so you might want to add a bit more sugar to taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, scoop out the dough while it’s cold, and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Just ensure it has xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best results. This will help maintain the cookie’s texture!
