Name: Decadent Maraschino Cherry Cookies You Can't Resist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Swap with gluten-free blend for gluten-free options); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt (Use less for low-sodium option); 1 cup unsalted butter (Room temperature; coconut oil works for vegan); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (Regular brown sugar can be substituted); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Consider reducing for low-sugar version); 2 large eggs (Can substitute with flax eggs for vegan); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Imitation vanilla can be used); 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (Omit for nut allergies); 1 teaspoon pink gel food coloring (Omit or use beet powder for natural version); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Dark chocolate chips work for richer flavor); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Finely chopped after draining; dried cherries can be used); 1/2 cup chopped nuts (Use walnuts or pecans if nut allergies aren't a concern); 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (A pinch for subtle heat)

The moment I unsealed that vibrant jar of maraschino cherries, I was whisked back to childhood summers filled with ice cream sundaes and backyard barbecues. Today, I’m thrilled to blend that nostalgia with a modern twist in my Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. These beauties not only offer a visual delight with their cheerful colors but are incredibly easy to whip up in just 40 minutes, making them the perfect indulgence after a busy day. Plus, they’re adaptable enough to accommodate gluten-free or vegan needs. So, are you ready to experience the delicious marriage of rich chocolate and sweet cherries in every bite? Let’s dive into this baking adventure together!

Why are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Delightful Fusion: The luscious pairing of chocolate and maraschino cherries creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Time Saver: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, making them perfect for parties or last-minute cravings.

Endless Adaptability: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, this recipe allows for easy substitutions, so everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.

Visual Appeal: The vibrant pink hues from the cherries combined with rich chocolate chips bring a joyous flair to your dessert table—perfect for brightening up any gathering!

For more sweet inspiration, don’t miss my Chewy Brown Cookies or the fun twist of Pebble Sugar Cookies that will delight both kids and adults alike.

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – The foundation for the cookie’s chewy texture; swap with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
• Cornstarch – Helps create a softer cookie; no direct substitution recommended.
• Baking soda – Ensures cookies rise beautifully; no direct substitution recommended.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; you can use less for a low-sodium option.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing (coconut oil works for vegan).
• Light brown sugar – Contributes caramel notes and moisture; you can use regular brown sugar as a substitute.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; consider reducing the overall sugar for a low-sugar version.
• Large eggs – Act as a binding agent for the cookie; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Vanilla extract – Provides warmth and depth; imitation vanilla can be used for budget-friendly baking.
• Almond extract – Enhances the flavor profile; you can omit it for nut allergies.
• Pink gel food coloring – Adds a cheerful blush; omit or use beet powder for a natural version.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – The main flavor highlight; dark chocolate chips work for richer flavor.
• Maraschino cherries – Offers juicy bursts of sweetness; finely chopped after draining, or switch to dried cherries for a different texture.

Optional Add-Ins
• Chopped nuts – Fold in walnuts or pecans for added crunch, if nut allergies aren’t a concern.
• Orange zest – Adds a refreshing twist to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Cayenne pepper – A pinch can introduce a subtle heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Enjoy baking these delectable Maraschino Cherry Cookies, where each bite is a delightful surprise!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This preparation is essential as it ensures your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and equipment to make the process smoother.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture is the foundation of your cookie dough, contributing to its soft, chewy texture. Set this bowl aside, and remember, a thorough mix here will prevent any lumps from affecting the final result, ensuring each bite is delightful.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes. You’re looking for a light and airy texture, which will help your Maraschino Cherry Cookies rise beautifully in the oven. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the large eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Aim for a smooth consistency without overmixing, which can toughen the cookies. The warm, inviting scents of the extracts will fill your kitchen, heightening the anticipation of the sweet treats to come.

Step 5: Incorporate Food Coloring
Blend in the pink gel food coloring, pausing to check the color intensity. This step is optional, but it adds a cheerful hue to your Maraschino Cherry Cookies. If you prefer a natural approach, feel free to omit the coloring or substitute it with beet powder for a lovely pink shade; either way, it will make your cookies visually appealing.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula to fold until just incorporated. The result should be a thick, cookie dough that holds together well. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cookie. You want to preserve that delightful chewy texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.

Step 7: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. The bursts of cherries nestled among the chocolate create a heavenly flavor combination that will make each bite a delightful surprise. Take a moment to admire the vibrant color added by the cherries.

Step 8: Scoop and Shape Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between for spreading. This step is vital for ensuring your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies bake uniformly. For added charm, press some extra chocolate chips and cherries on top of each dough ball before baking—this will enhance the visual appeal.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the tops look slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as you want a golden edge while the center remains chewy—this contrast is what makes them so delightful.

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up without becoming too hard. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma of the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies will be irresistible, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to customize these delicious cookies to match your preferences and dietary needs.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delightful alternative. This way, everyone can join in on the fun without missing out!
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of large eggs. The cherry and chocolate combo will still shine through in this plant-based adaptation.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a refreshing zest. Alternatively, throw in a pinch of cayenne for a surprising yet pleasant heat that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.
Nut Variations: If you love a crunch, fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add an earthy flavor and delightful texture, enhancing the overall experience—unless allergies are a concern!
Dried Fruits: Switch up the maraschino cherries with dried cherries or cranberries for a chewy bite that introduces a different flavor profile. It’s an easy way to mix things up!
Chocolate Choices: Go for dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for an intense chocolate experience. The richness will beautifully complement the sweet cherries, providing a decadent twist.
Caramel Drizzle: Consider drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the finished cookies for a sweet touch that takes your treats to another level.

For more delightful recipes, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a cozy flavor or try your hand at Chewy Brown Cookies for a classic favorite.

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors and helps prevent spreading during baking.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep your Maraschino Cherry Cookies soft and chewy—overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Check Consistency: If the dough seems too sticky, adjust by adding a bit more flour until it is manageable for scooping.

• Top It Off: Press extra chocolate chips and cherries onto the tops before baking for a beautiful finish—this makes for a visually appealing treat!

• Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on the cookies; remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the center appears slightly soft for that perfect chewiness.

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. Simply mix all ingredients according to the recipe, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time on busy days but also allows the flavors to deepen for even tastier cookies. If you prefer, you can also scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. These advance prep options ensure your Maraschino Cherry Cookies are just as delicious whenever you choose to bake them!

What to Serve with Irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

A delightful combination of flavors awaits when you emerge from the kitchen with these colorful cookie treats!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the chewy texture and sweet bursts of cherries in your cookies. Serve them warm with a scoop for a delightful contrast.
Fresh Berry Medley: A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a juicy, tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully. It’s a colorful and vibrant addition that awakens the palate!
Chocolate Milk: Indulge your sweet tooth further with a tall glass of chocolate milk. The creamy chocolate pairs harmoniously with the chocolate chips, elevating the dessert experience!
Whipped Cream Topping: Sweeten up those cookies by serving them drizzled with luscious whipped cream. That soft texture enhances each bite with an airy lightness and richness.
Coffee or Espresso: The boldness of coffee or espresso brings out the rich flavors of chocolate while balancing the sweetness of the maraschino cherries, creating a lovely contrast in every bite.
Nutty Granola: For a unique twist, serve your cookies alongside crunchy nutty granola. The textural contrast adds interest, making for a satisfying snack any time of day!
Fruit Compote: Top each cookie with a spoonful of warm fruit compote, like cherry or raspberry, for an elegant and sophisticated dessert that highlights the cherry flavor.

Indulging in these pairings with maraschino cherry cookies will transform your simple treat into an unforgettable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: To freeze, place unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.

Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked taste and gooey texture.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those that are bright in color and plump. Avoid any that show signs of dark spots or are shriveled, as these can affect the flavor and overall appeal of your cookies. Always opt for cherries that are well-coated in syrup, as they provide the necessary moisture and sweetness.

How do I store leftover cookies, and how long do they last?
Very! Store your Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last about 7 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough, and what is the best method?
Definitely! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop out the balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw before putting them in the oven—just add an extra minute to your baking time, and you’ll have fresh cookies in no time.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Not a problem! If your Maraschino Cherry cookie dough is too sticky to scoop, try adding a tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time until it reaches a manageable consistency. You want a dough that holds its shape but is still soft enough to enjoy that chewy texture. A little adjustment can make a world of difference!

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! To make these cookies safe for those with nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract and avoid adding any nuts like walnuts or pecans. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful taste of those Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies without worry.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version of your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and the large eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg). Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to your dough for wonderful results!