If you’re on the hunt for a cookie recipe that bursts with unexpected flavor and texture, the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is here to steal the spotlight. These cookies combine the classic chewiness of chocolate chips with the bright, juicy pop of maraschino cherries, all wrapped up in a golden, buttery base that brings the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this recipe delivers a fun and irresistibly delicious treat that will instantly become a favorite in your cookie rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each item plays a special part, whether in flavor, texture, or that beautiful chewy bite you’re aiming for.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to stay soft and chewy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Offers a subtle caramel note and extra moisture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds to the cookie’s softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: The classic chocolate touch everyone loves in cookies.
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained): The star ingredient for that sweet fruity zing and stunning red pops throughout.
How to Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening agent and seasoning distribute evenly so every bite is consistent and delightful.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air that gives your cookies a tender and airy texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg not only binds but also contributes moisture, while the vanilla brings a lovely aromatic sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently on low speed just until you see no more flour streaks. Over-mixing at this stage can make the cookies tough, so take it slow and steady.
Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Now, the exciting part: fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. This gives the cookie dough its signature burst of flavor and those delightful pockets of juicy cherry and melty chocolate.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them a bit helps the cookies set up perfectly while keeping their chewy charm intact.
How to Serve Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation and extra burst of cherry goodness, top your cookies with a halved maraschino cherry or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. This not only enhances the look but also adds a subtle touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cookies are wonderfully complemented by a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The balance of creamy and bold alongside the cherry-chocolate notes creates a genuinely satisfying pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe on a festive platter with fresh cherries, chocolate curls, or sprigs of mint for a pop of color. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies with cherry-flavored cream cheese for a playful dessert twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness. If you want to keep the cherries fresh and the cookies chewy, a cool, dry place is your best bet.
Freezing
Freeze your cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time. You can also freeze baked cookies individually wrapped for quick treats whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) to refresh their gooey texture. This little step makes the chocolate chips extra melty and cherries even more succulent.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries have a different texture and moisture level compared to maraschino cherries, but if you enjoy a less sweet and more natural flavor, pitted fresh cherries can be a lovely substitute. Just be sure to chop them finely and pat them dry to prevent soggy dough.
Will these cookies be too sweet with maraschino cherries and chocolate chips?
Not at all! The mix of tartness from the cherries and the bittersweet quality from the chocolate chips balances the sugar beautifully, creating a cookie that is sweet but never overwhelming.
How do I keep the cherries from bleeding their color into the dough?
Drain the cherries well and pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the dough. This helps minimize color running and ensures the cherries stay bright and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. Just ensure your other ingredients don’t contain gluten, and adjust the baking time as needed to keep the cookies chewy and tender.
What’s the secret to getting chewy cookies every time?
Softened butter, a combination of granulated and brown sugar, careful mixing, and not overbaking are your best friends for chewy cookies. The Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe follows all these principles to deliver that ideal chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a cookie that surprises you with each bite, and the Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe does exactly that. It’s a delicious way to combine classic and unexpected flavors into a treat that feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try baking these cookies and experience the joy they bring to any occasion!
Print
Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in this creamy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake that combines a buttery crushed frosted animal cookie crust with a luscious strawberry-infused cream cheese filling studded with crushed frosted animal cookies. Topped with light whipped cream and garnished with cookies, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed frosted animal cookies
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed frosted animal cookies
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup crushed frosted animal cookies (for garnish)
- Whole frosted animal cookies for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed frosted animal cookies with 1/4 cup melted butter. Mix until the mixture is evenly coated and crumbly. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup strawberry puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Eggs: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next to maintain a smooth batter. Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed frosted animal cookies to add texture and flavor to the filling.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Turn off the oven and crack the door open; let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the Cheesecake: After the hour of cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to come to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and achieve the perfect texture.
- Add Toppings: Before serving, spread 1 cup of whipped cream evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with 1/2 cup crushed frosted animal cookies and several whole frosted animal cookies for a festive and inviting presentation.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Blending frozen strawberries into the puree works well if fresh ones are unavailable.
- For best results, bake cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to prevent cracking.
- Allow cheesecake to chill thoroughly; this enhances flavor and texture.
- The crushed frosted animal cookies provide a sweet crunch and colorful appearance; substitute with graham crackers or similar cookies if unavailable.
