Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Published on: November 26, 2025

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies on a plate with sprinkles.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful mix of flavors that will bring a smile to your face. Imagine soft, chewy cookies studded with gooey chocolate and vibrant, sweet bursts of cherry. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible, wrapping your space in a warm, inviting embrace. This recipe is special not only for its delicious flavors but also for its simplicity. With minimal ingredients, it’s an easy treat for gatherings or a comforting hug on a busy day.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whether for holiday celebrations, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in, Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect addition to any occasion. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors make them a crowd-pleaser, while the mix of chocolate and cherries offers a unique twist on a classic favorite. Plus, these cookies are incredibly convenient to whip up, requiring minimal prep time and effort. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

Fresh maraschino cherries not only add a pop of color but also a hint of nostalgia to these cookies. Their sweet-tart flavor pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate chips, creating a delightful balance. In season, cherries can be locally sourced, supporting local farmers while ensuring peak freshness. These delightful red gems contribute a juicy texture that contrasts with the soft cookie base, infusing each bite with a burst of flavor. The vibrant colors and sweet aroma make baking these cookies a feast for the senses, perfect for celebrating seasonal joys.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious cookies:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries
1 cup chocolate chips

Feel free to experiment with substitutions for butter or flour based on your dietary needs, such as using coconut oil for a dairy-free option or gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make This Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop the perfect texture.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. This step creates a light, fluffy base for your cookies.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. The mixture will become creamy and fragrant, filling your kitchen with warmth.
Incorporate Cherry Juice: Stir in the maraschino cherry juice, infusing the batter with a sweet cherry essence that enhances the flavor profile.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the dry components.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cookies tender.
Fold in Add-Ins: Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips. The dough should be thick and slightly gooey, with cherries and chocolate throughout.
Drop Dough on Baking Sheet: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them adequately as they will spread.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. The centers will remain soft, creating a delightful chewy texture.
Cool & Serve: Allow to cool on wire racks before serving. This will enhance their flavor and make them easier to handle.

Step Examples

Prepare the Base: Softening the butter brings out its rich flavor and helps to create a creamy texture when mixed with sugar, adding to the overall aroma of your cookie dough.
Mix the Ingredients: As you combine the wet and dry ingredients, watch for the dough to come together without clumps, ensuring a consistent texture.
Shape or Cook: Use a cookie scoop for evenly shaped balls that will bake uniformly. Look for a light golden edge that indicates doneness.
Finish or Garnish: For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling with sea salt for contrast.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the warm, inviting cookies with a glass of milk or coffee, savoring the rich chocolate against the sweet cherries.

Essential Tools

To make these cookies, you’ll need:

Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Electric mixer or a whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper
Baking sheets
Cookie scoop or spoon

These tools make the process smoother and help achieve a consistent cookie result.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough in individual scoops. Simply freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Perfect Pairings

These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are great on their own but can be elevated with a few pairings. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or milk. For a fun twist, consider pairing them with a fruity cherry soda for a nostalgic treat. Their bright colors and flavors also complement cheese platters or charcuterie boards for a festive occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Estimated nutrition per cookie (based on a 12-cookie yield):

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry: If your dough seems too dry, add a tiny splash of milk until it becomes pliable. This helps achieve the right consistency.
Chocolate Coating Breaks: Make sure your melted chocolate is smooth and warm to avoid breaking when dipping or drizzling.
Unevenly Shaped Balls: To ensure even baking, use a cookie scoop to portion your dough, resulting in perfectly uniform cookies.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and better texture.
Incorporate a pinch of sea salt into the dough or on top of the cookies for a flavor contrast.
Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark or white chocolate, for a unique twist.
For a chewier texture, chill your cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair alongside the cherries.
Spiced Cookies: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice element, perfect for the colder months.
Different Fruits: Substitute fresh blueberries or diced strawberries for a fruity variation.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

To make this recipe work for various dietary needs:

Vegan: Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and use vegan butter.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to keep the texture similar.
Dairy-Free: Swap in coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to pit and chop them finely, adjusting the amount of cherry juice accordingly.

Q: How do I store the cookies?
A: Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies.

Q: Can these cookies be made in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I pair with these cookies?
A: They go well with milk, coffee, or even a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Q: Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
A: Yes! Just adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller cookies may bake faster, while larger cookies may need a bit more time.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are bound to become a new favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your baking experience in the comments or tag your creations on social media! Explore more delicious desserts here: {internal_link_1}. Happy baking!