Introduction
Welcome to cookie heaven! These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and indulgent, combining the classic flavors of rich chocolate with the bright, sweet burst of maraschino cherries. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, making them a treat that’s sure to please everyone from kids to adults. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy dessert at home, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, creating a homogenous dry mixture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the chocolate chips, chopped maraschino cherries, and walnuts (if you’re using them) until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers look set.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of almond extract, which compliments the cherries beautifully. If you prefer a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them; they will continue to firm up as they cool. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or nuts based on your preference!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that fluffy texture in your cookies, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps it blend smoothly with the sugars, creating tiny air pockets that expand during baking, giving you those perfectly soft cookies. Also, be sure to chop the maraschino cherries uniformly; this ensures even distribution in each bite!
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare the dough in advance! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer. When ready to bake, just scoop and bake straight from the fridge or thaw slightly.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or simply prefer not to use nuts, you can leave them out entirely. Alternatively, try substituting with oats for a different texture!
Conclusion
These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just another cookie recipe; they’re a delightful experience that melds sweet and creamy with a hint of nostalgia. Perfect for any occasion, or simply a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, each cookie will transport you to a world of flavor and coziness. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in these sweet cherry delights!