When I think about Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies, my mind immediately dances to images of cozy gatherings and sweet nostalgia. Imagine pairing these delightful cookies with a velvety scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Picture yourself enjoying a warm cookie topped with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoying them alongside a steaming cup of coffee. They also shine at a picnic, effortlessly complementing fresh fruit salads or even a refreshing glass of lemonade.
These cookies are like the life of the party, ready to make every occasion just a bit more special.
What is the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?
This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet chocolate and tangy cherry flavors, making it an absolute delight for cookie lovers. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chunks and chopped Maraschino cherries creates an irresistible allure.
With each bite, you experience a burst of sweetness mingled with a chewy texture. It’s like a party in your mouth, a delightful experience that transports you back to simpler times.
Why This Recipe Works
So, what makes this recipe a winner? First, the butter plays a crucial role in delivering that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The perfect amount of sugar adds sweetness without overwhelming the cherry’s tartness.
The combination of egg and egg yolk enriches the dough, granting it a chewy finish. Finally, the flaked sea salt sprinkled on top provides a satisfying contrast to the sugary notes. Science, my friend, meets art in this delectable creation!
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk, room temperature
½ teaspoon fine kosher salt
1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
2 cups plus 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated white sugar
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup maraschino cherries, well-drained and chopped
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon toasted chopped pecans
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks
Flaked sea salt, for sprinkling on top
How to Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Before diving into the ingredient preparation, let’s get a quick overview. This recipe involves mixing the wet ingredients, combining them with the dry, and then incorporating the cherries and chocolate. It’s simple yet so rewarding!
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to catch any drips and ensure easy clean-up later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a fluffy texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add the whole egg and the egg yolk to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. This adds richness and a bit of moisture, perfect for achieving that lovely chewiness.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; that’s the secret to tender cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold the chopped Maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chunks into the cookie dough. The cherries will infuse their beautiful flavor into every bite.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about two inches apart. Sprinkle a pinch of flaked sea salt on top of each dough ball; this step adds a delightful flavor contrast.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remember, they’ll continue to bake slightly after you remove them from the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Once the cookies are golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Enjoy the smells wafting through your kitchen!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps with even mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
- Drain the Cherries: Make sure to drain the Maraschino cherries well. Excess moisture can change the cookie texture.
- Chill the Dough: For even better flavors, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the flour to absorb moisture better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different chocolate types or nuts. Try dark chocolate chunks or substitute walnuts for pecans – get creative!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any cookies left—an unlikely event, I assure you—they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Simply make sure they are completely cooled, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, let them defrost at room temperature.
How Would I Recommend Serving Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Here are four delightful ways to elevate your cookie experience:
- Ala Mode: Serve a warm cookie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold will blow your mind. The vanilla ice cream mellows out the cherry and chocolate flavors.
- Cookie Sandwich: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies. This adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the dessert.
- Pair with Coffee: Enjoy your cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
- Dessert Boards: Arrange a selection of your favorite desserts on a platter, including these cookies. Add fruits and cheeses for a colorful and enticing spread. It’s a feast for the eyes and palate.
Ingredient Alternatives
Sometimes, we’re faced with missing ingredients. Here are some smart substitutions:
- Unsalted Butter: Use margarine or coconut oil if you’re out of butter. They’ll yield a different flavor but still maintain a good texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: You can swap in gluten-free flour blends. Make sure they contain xanthan gum for proper texture.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can be used as alternatives. Each will give the cookies a distinct sweetness or richness.
- Maraschino Cherries: If you’re not a fan or can’t find them, try using dried cherries or cranberries. They’ll add a different texture but maintain the fruity element.
Conclusion: A Sweet Adventure
Making Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies is more than just baking; it’s a delightful journey filled with flavors and memories. With each step, you’ll experience the joy of cooking, the warmth of your home, and the delight of sharing with loved ones.
I’ve seen smiles break out over these cookies; there’s magic in that first warm bite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake some memories. Your cookie adventure awaits!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals
Today, I invite you on an adventure that leads us straight into the heart of a kitchen filled with joy. The tantalizing scent of baking cookies beckons, making your taste buds tingle in eager anticipation.
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just your ordinary baked treat; they are a celebration of flavors, nostalgia, and a dash of whimsy. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or treating yourself to something special, these cookies promise to deliver both comfort and joy.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
-
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to catch any drips and ensure easy clean-up later.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a fluffy texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
-
Add the whole egg and the egg yolk to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. This adds richness and a bit of moisture, perfect for achieving that lovely chewiness.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; that’s the secret to tender cookies.
Step 5: Incorporate Cherries and Chocolate
-
Gently fold the chopped Maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chunks into the cookie dough. The cherries will infuse their beautiful flavor into every bite.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
-
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about two inches apart. Sprinkle a pinch of flaked sea salt on top of each dough ball; this step adds a delightful flavor contrast.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
-
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remember, they’ll continue to bake slightly after you remove them from the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
-
Once the cookies are golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Enjoy the smells wafting through your kitchen!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 20
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 105kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.6g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 9mg3%
- Sodium 95mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 21g8%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 11g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps with even mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
- Drain the Cherries: Make sure to drain the Maraschino cherries well. Excess moisture can change the cookie texture.
- Chill the Dough: For even better flavors, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the flour to absorb moisture better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different chocolate types or nuts. Try dark chocolate chunks or substitute walnuts for pecans – get creative!
