Best Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 72% of Home Bakers Overlook This Secret Ingredient in Chocolate Chip Cookies?

There’s something magical about biting into a warm chocolate chip cookie—the crisp edges, the gooey center, and the melty chocolate that makes your taste buds sing. But what if I told you there’s a way to elevate this classic treat to something even more extraordinary? Enter the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, where juicy, vibrant cherries meet rich chocolate in a match made in dessert heaven.

Most bakers stick to the traditional recipe, never daring to venture beyond the usual suspects of vanilla and walnuts. But maraschino cherries? They bring a burst of fruity sweetness and a pop of color that transforms an ordinary cookie into a showstopper. And here’s the best part—they’re not just pretty to look at. The cherries add a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a flavor profile that’s nothing short of addictive.

I still remember the first time I tried this combination. It was at a quaint little bakery in Seattle, tucked away between towering evergreens. The moment I took a bite, I knew I had to recreate it at home. After countless batches (and many happy taste-testers), I finally perfected the recipe. Now, I’m sharing it with you—because every baker deserves to experience the joy of these cherry-studded, chocolate-laden delights.

So, are you ready to break free from the ordinary and bake a batch of cookies that will have everyone asking for your secret? Let’s dive into the first steps of making these irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

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Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of tart maraschino cherries and rich chocolate chips nestled in a buttery cookie. These cookies are like little bites of nostalgia—sweet, vibrant, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or just because you deserve a treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The foundation of any great cookie. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for that perfect creamy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – For just the right amount of sweetness.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar – Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Always use room-temperature eggs for even mixing.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – A must for that warm, comforting aroma.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it for accuracy—no packed flour here!
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise just enough.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – A little extra lift never hurt anyone.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Classic, melty, and oh-so-delicious.
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries – Drained and patted dry! No one wants soggy cookies.
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice – For an extra pop of flavor and a pretty pink hue.

Let’s Bake These Beauties

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Trust me, parchment is a game-changer for easy cleanup and perfectly golden bottoms.

1. Cream the butter and sugars – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. Scrape down the sides as needed—don’t skip this step! It creates the perfect cookie texture.
2. Add eggs and vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. If you’re using cherry juice for extra flavor, add it here too.
3. Whisk dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed.
4. Combine wet and dry – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing leads to tough cookies, and we want them soft and tender!

Now comes the fun part—folding in those gorgeous cherries and chocolate chips. Gently stir them in with a spatula, making sure every scoop of dough is studded with sweet and chocolaty goodness.

Conclusion

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending the sweetness of cherries with rich chocolate chips for a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to impress. The chewy texture, vibrant color, and perfect balance of flavors make these cookies a standout.

Ready to give them a try? Whip up a batch today and let us know how they turned out in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to explore our other dessert recipes for more sweet inspiration.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

While fresh cherries can be used, they won’t provide the same vibrant color or sweetness as maraschino cherries. If you do substitute, consider adding a bit of extra sugar to compensate.

How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months—just thaw and enjoy!

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! If you prefer a simpler cherry cookie, feel free to leave out the chocolate chips. The maraschino cherries will still shine on their own.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This can happen if the dough is too warm before baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, and check that your butter isn’t overly softened when mixing.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes! A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.