When the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, it’s like a warm hug for your senses. The vibrant red of maraschino cherries nestled in a golden cookie dough brings an irresistible charm that sparks joy. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Picture biting into a soft, buttery cookie, the cherry’s sweetness bursting forth with each delightful chew. Quick Cinnamon Rolls. For more inspiration, check out this banana bread cookies recipe.
I still remember the first batch I made for my friend’s birthday party. The moment I pulled them from the oven, the crowd gathered like moths to a flame, and those Maraschino Cherry Cookies vanished faster than you could say “sweet tooth.” It was a magical moment that made me realize these cookies were not just treats; they were tiny bites of happiness. Pumpkin Dinner Rolls.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any last-minute gatherings
- The flavor profile balances sweet and tart perfectly, creating a delightful experience with every bite
- Their bright red color makes them visually stunning, turning heads at any dessert table
- They’re versatile enough to enjoy on their own or as part of a larger dessert platter
Every time I bake these cookies, friends and family can’t help but smile with each bite they take.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Maraschino Cherries: Use high-quality cherries for the best flavor; drain and pat them dry for better dough consistency.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter is key; it helps create that rich, creamy texture in your cookies. For more inspiration, check out this peanut butter brownies recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar works best here for sweetness; it helps achieve that lovely golden color when baked.
- Brown Sugar: Lightly packed brown sugar adds moisture and depth to the cookie’s flavor; don’t skip this one!
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour is ideal; sift it to avoid lumps and achieve a smoother cookie dough.
- Baking Powder: This is essential for giving your cookies that lovely rise; fresh baking powder yields the best results.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in your cookies; do not underestimate its power!
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds an aromatic richness that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Eggs: One large egg binds everything together; make sure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick like they owe you money.
Mix Your Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Cranberry Cheesecake Fluff The mixture should look like a cloud of sugary happiness.
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Beat in one egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined—this step fills your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma that will have you drooling already.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix unless you want tough cookies!
Add Cherries!: Fold in those glorious maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough. You’ll want to see little red specks peeking out like hidden treasures.
Scoop and Bake!: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dollops of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
With a bit of patience, you’ll have beautiful Maraschino Cherry Cookies ready to impress.
Now you have all the tools needed to create these delightful treats! Get ready to enjoy every fruity bite of these cheerful cookies.
Essential Tips for Maraschino Cherry Cookies
- Use high-quality maraschino cherries for better flavor
- Ensure to chop them finely for even distribution in the dough
- Chill the cookie dough before baking to enhance texture and prevent spreading
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming your butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in the eggs. Gradually add dry ingredients and fold in the cherries, ensuring an even blend.
Add Your Touch
Get creative by swapping maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or adding white chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Experiment with almond extract for extra flavor depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To enjoy them warm, microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted
- Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined
- Adjust baking time based on your oven’s quirks for consistent results
I remember the first time I baked these cookies; my kids couldn’t wait to dive into them! Their laughter filled the kitchen as they helped stir the batter, creating a cherished memory that lingers with every batch.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but fresh cherries will alter the texture and sweetness of the cookies.
How long does it take to bake these cookies?
Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes at 350°F until golden brown.
Can I freeze these maraschino cherry cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months for later enjoyment.
Maraschino Cherry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the joy of baking with these Maraschino Cherry Cookies, a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with the sweet burst of cherries. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. The vibrant red cherries nestled in the soft dough create a delicious contrast that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether for a gathering or a special dessert platter, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and happiness with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries evenly into the dough.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla or swap out maraschino cherries for dried cranberries. - Chill the dough before baking to enhance texture and prevent spreading. - Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.