Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies. These cookies blend the sweetness of maraschino cherries with rich chocolate chips, creating a fun and festive treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
1 cup chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
• Different Chocolates: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of regular semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• More Fruity Flavor: Mix in additional dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness.
• Cookie Bars: Spread the dough in a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes to make cookie bars.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?
   Yes, if using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.
2. What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?
   You can substitute with dried cherries or omit them altogether for a classic chocolate chip cookie.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
4. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Ensure that the butter is softened, not melted, and consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
5. Can I add more chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add extra chocolate chips to suit your preference.
6. What if my cookies are too dry?
   Overmixing the dough can lead to dry cookies; mix until just combined.
7. Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
   Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
8. What’s the best way to chop maraschino cherries?
   Use kitchen scissors or a knife for easy chopping, and make sure to drain them well.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, simply double all ingredients and follow the same steps.
10. How do I know when the cookies are done?
    They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing a burst of flavor and color to your cookie jar. With their sweet and rich combination, these cookies are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet treat at home. Try this recipe today and treat yourself to these festive delights!

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