If you’re a fan of classic chocolate chip cookies but want to add a delicious twist, this maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with the sweet, slightly tangy flavor of maraschino cherries paired with rich, melty chocolate chips.

Unlike traditional chocolate chip cookies, these have a unique fruity touch that makes them perfect for special occasions, from holiday parties to Valentine’s Day treats. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make and require only simple pantry staples.

Maraschino cherries have long been a favorite addition to desserts, from ice cream sundaes to cherry-flavored cakes. They bring a vibrant color and a distinct flavor that makes these cookies stand out. Learn more about the history and uses of maraschino cherries and how they can enhance your baked goods.

If you love soft, chewy cookies with a delightful blend of flavors, these cherry chocolate chip cookies will quickly become a go-to recipe in your baking collection. Keep reading to discover why these cookies are a must-try and how you can make them perfectly every time!

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What Makes These Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Special?

These maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies aren’t just any cookies—they’re a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip recipe. Here’s why they stand out:

1. The Perfect Flavor Combination

The blend of sweet, slightly tart cherries with rich, melty chocolate chips creates an irresistible balance. The cherries add a fruity burst, while the chocolate enhances the overall indulgence. If you love chocolate-covered cherries, you’ll adore these cookies!

2. Soft, Chewy Texture with a Slight Crisp

Thanks to the right mix of butter, sugars, and eggs, these cookies come out wonderfully soft and chewy in the center while maintaining a lightly crisp edge. The use of butter plays a crucial role in achieving this texture, ensuring each bite is rich and flavorful.

3. Visually Stunning & Festive

With their vibrant red cherry pieces, these cookies are not only delicious but also eye-catching. They’re perfect for:

• Holidays and special occasions like Christmas and Valentine’s Day
• Gifting—who wouldn’t love a homemade batch of these?
• Dessert platters for parties or celebrations

4. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

Unlike complex desserts, these cookies use basic pantry staples that you likely already have. Plus, they require no special baking skills—just mix, bake, and enjoy!

5. Customizable for Different Tastes

Want to switch things up? You can easily customize this recipe by:

• Swapping dark chocolate for a more intense flavor
• Adding white chocolate chips for extra sweetness
• Mixing in chopped nuts for added crunch

These cookies offer the perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence, making them a must-try for any cookie lover. If you’re curious about the different variations of chocolate chip cookies, there are plenty of ways to make them uniquely yours!

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Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Before diving into the baking process, let’s go over the key ingredients that make these maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies so irresistible. Each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving the perfect flavor, texture, and appearance.

1. Butter – The Base of Richness

Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the salt content in your cookies. It adds a rich, creamy texture and helps create that perfect balance between soft centers and slightly crisp edges. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing. Learn more about the role of butter in baking and why it’s crucial for cookies.

2. Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – The Sweetness Duo

• Granulated sugar provides crispness and structure.
• Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, thanks to its molasses content. The mix of both ensures a soft, yet structured cookie with a caramel-like depth.

3. Eggs – The Binder

Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to a chewy, tender cookie. Using room-temperature eggs allows them to mix more evenly into the dough.

4. Vanilla Extract – Enhancing the Flavor

A small amount of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, giving these cookies a warm, aromatic sweetness.

5. All-Purpose Flour – The Structure Builder

Flour forms the foundation of the cookie, giving it shape and structure. Using too much flour can make the cookies dense, while too little may cause them to spread too much. Be sure to measure correctly using the spoon-and-level method.

6. Baking Soda – The Leavening Agent

Baking soda is essential for giving these cookies their light texture. It helps them rise while also neutralizing acidity, which enhances the sweetness. If you’re curious about how baking soda works in baking, it’s a key ingredient for achieving the perfect cookie consistency.

7. Salt – Balancing the Sweetness

A small pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances out the sweetness of the cherries and chocolate chips.

8. Maraschino Cherries – The Star Ingredient

The sweet, juicy maraschino cherries add a fruity burst to every bite. Be sure to:

• Drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
• Chop them finely for even distribution.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent soggy cookies.

9. Chocolate Chips – The Ultimate Indulgence

Using semi-sweet chocolate chips adds a rich chocolate flavor without overpowering the cherry taste. You can also experiment with:

• Dark chocolate chips for a bolder taste
• White chocolate chips for extra sweetness
• Milk chocolate chips for a creamier flavor

10. Optional Add-Ins for Customization

If you want to get creative, try adding:

• Chopped almonds or pecans for crunch
• Coconut flakes for a tropical twist
• A splash of almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor

With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you’re all set to create the perfect batch of cherry chocolate chip cookies!

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cookies

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bake the perfect batch of maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies! Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to ensure soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies every time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures even baking and prevents the cookies from spreading too much. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, creating a softer texture. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed works best.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract

• Crack one egg at a time into the mixture, beating well after each addition.
• Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt

This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, preventing uneven rising in your cookies. If you’re interested in the science behind baking, check out how baking soda affects baked goods.

Step 5: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough. Mix just until no flour streaks remain.

Step 6: Prepare the Cherries

• Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly.
• Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Chop them into small, even pieces for the best distribution in your dough.

Step 7: Fold in Chopped Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips until evenly mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the cherries and turn the dough pink.

Step 8: Scoop and Arrange Dough on Baking Sheet

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop even portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart, as the cookies will spread slightly while baking.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this is okay! They will firm up as they cool.

Step 10: Cool the Cookies Properly

• Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• This step is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy texture.

Now your homemade cherry chocolate chip cookies are ready to enjoy! If you love experimenting with different baking techniques, check out these cookie baking tips to enhance your skills.

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Baking Tips & Tricks for the Best Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking the perfect batch of maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies requires more than just following the recipe. These expert tips and tricks will help you avoid common mistakes and achieve soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies every time.

1. How to Properly Drain & Dry Maraschino Cherries

One of the biggest challenges with this recipe is excess moisture from the cherries, which can make the cookies too soft or prevent them from baking evenly. Follow these steps:

• Drain thoroughly: Pour the cherries into a strainer and let the juice drain completely.
• Pat dry: Use a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
• Chop first, then dry again: After chopping, pat them dry once more to absorb any remaining liquid.

This ensures your cookies have the perfect texture without becoming too soggy. If you want to learn more about the uses of maraschino cherries in baking, their history and preparation methods can be fascinating!

2. Chilling the Dough – Is It Necessary?

While chilling isn’t required, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and texture. Benefits include:
✔️ Less spreading – Cold dough holds its shape better.
✔️ More intense flavor – Allows ingredients to meld together.
✔️ Better texture – Cookies turn out thicker and chewier.

If you prefer thicker cookies, chilling is a great option!

3. Choosing the Right Chocolate

The type of chocolate chips you use can dramatically affect the taste:

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (classic choice, rich but not overpowering)
• Dark chocolate chips (bolder, less sweet, pairs well with cherries)
• White chocolate chips (extra sweet, great for contrast)

Want to experiment? Try mixing two different types of chocolate chips for a more complex flavor. If you’re curious about the origins and varieties of chocolate chip cookies, there are plenty of fun variations to explore.

4. High-Altitude Baking Adjustments

If you live in a high-altitude area, you may need to adjust your recipe:

• Reduce sugar slightly to prevent over-spreading.
• Add 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour to strengthen the dough.
• Increase baking temperature by 15°F and slightly decrease baking time.

Making these small tweaks can ensure your cookies come out perfect every time!

5. Avoiding Common Cookie Mistakes

Even experienced bakers can run into cookie mishaps. Here’s how to fix them:
❌ Cookies are too flat? – Dough may be too warm; chill before baking.
❌ Cookies are too dry? – Over-measuring flour or overbaking could be the culprit.
❌ Cookies spread too much? – Make sure butter isn’t too melted and flour is properly measured.

For more useful cookie baking hacks, check out these baking tips on Pinterest to refine your technique!

Master these tips, and you’ll have bakery-quality cookies every time!

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Recipe Variations: Customize Your Cookies

One of the best things about maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies is how easily they can be customized. Whether you want a different flavor profile, a healthier option, or a festive twist, these variations will help you create the perfect cookie for any occasion.

1. White Chocolate Cherry Cookies

For a sweeter, creamier flavor, substitute white chocolate chips for semi-sweet or dark chocolate. The white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cherries, making these cookies extra indulgent.

2. Dark Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Want a richer, more intense flavor? Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate chips. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate complements the sweetness of maraschino cherries, creating a gourmet-style cookie.

3. Cherry Almond Cookies

• Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a nutty aroma.
• Mix in ½ cup of chopped almonds for a crunchy texture.
• The combination of cherries, chocolate, and almonds creates a bakery-style treat!

4. Gluten-Free Version

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum to maintain structure. Learn more about gluten-free baking and how to achieve the perfect cookie texture without wheat flour.

5. Vegan Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

For a dairy-free and egg-free version, substitute:
✔️ Butter → Vegan butter or coconut oil
✔️ Eggs → Flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg)
✔️ Chocolate chips → Dairy-free chocolate chips

This version still delivers soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies, perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out these vegan cookie recipes.

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Storage & Freezing Instructions

To keep your cherry chocolate chip cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage and freezing tips:

Storing at Room Temperature

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for 3-5 days.
• To maintain softness, add a slice of bread to the container—the cookies absorb the moisture and stay chewy longer.

Freezing Baked Cookies

• Allow cookies to cool completely.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Cookies stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Freezing Cookie Dough

• Scoop dough into individual portions and place on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer the dough balls into a zip-top freezer bag.
• When ready to bake, simply place frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

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What to Serve with Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right drink or dessert takes them to the next level!

Best Drink Pairings

• Milk: The classic choice that enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich and indulgent pairing.
• Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream between two cookies for an irresistible frozen treat.
• Cookie Platter: Serve alongside other homemade cookies, like peanut butter or snickerdoodles, for a dessert spread.
• Holiday Treat Boxes: Package these cookies with festive ribbons for a perfect homemade gift.

For more fun cookie ideas, check out these holiday cookie recipes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, but they need to be pitted, chopped, and drained well. Fresh cherries have more moisture, so drying them is essential to avoid soggy cookies.

2. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

• Make sure your butter isn’t too soft before mixing.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm.
• Ensure you’ve measured the flour correctly—too little flour causes excess spreading.

3. What’s the best type of chocolate to use for this recipe?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the most balanced choice, but dark chocolate is great for a richer flavor, and white chocolate adds extra sweetness.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just let refrigerated dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking.

5. How can I make these cookies softer or chewier?

• Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar for extra chewiness.
• Don’t overbake—remove cookies when they’re slightly underdone in the center.
• Store with a slice of bread to keep them soft longer.

6. Can I use almond extract for more cherry flavor?

Absolutely! Adding ¼ to ½ teaspoon of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.

7. Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

Not necessarily, but chilling the dough helps control spreading and intensifies the flavors. If you have time, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best results.

8. What’s the best way to chop maraschino cherries without making a mess?

• Use paper towels to pat the cherries dry before chopping.
• Coat your knife with a little flour to prevent sticking.
• Chop on a cutting board lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

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