Chef Mitchell preparing Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with cherry flavors in my baking. The combination of chocolate and maraschino cherries caught my attention, and after a few tweaks, these cookies became a family favorite. They are perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home. Every bite brings back fond memories of baking with my grandmother."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in dessert recipes. He has crafted a wide array of desserts, focusing on traditional recipes with a modern twist. His expertise shines in creating memorable sweets that please any palate.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies served on a plate

Why This Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies Recipe Works

This recipe for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies works because it balances rich chocolate flavors with the sweetness of cherries. The addition of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor, making each bite a delightful surprise. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

The technique used in this recipe ensures that the cookies remain soft and chewy in the center while achieving a slightly crispy edge. By mixing the dry ingredients separately and folding in the chocolate and cherries at the end, we prevent overmixing and ensure even distribution of flavors.

💡 Professional Tip

For best results, use high-quality chocolate chips and ensure your maraschino cherries are well-drained. This prevents excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the cookies. Don't skip chilling the dough for a short period before baking to enhance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time. Simply cover it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

If you don't have maraschino cherries, you can use dried cherries or cranberries as a substitute. They will provide a different flavor profile but still deliver a delicious result. Just chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution in the dough.

The cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Avoid overbaking to ensure a chewy texture.

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a special treat, serve them alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They are also delightful for dessert tables at parties.

When stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to a week in the fridge. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for a couple of days. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. This makes it convenient for gatherings or last-minute cravings.

To reheat, simply place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will refresh their texture and bring back the delicious taste.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour.

Solution: To remedy this, ensure you're measuring flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Additionally, check your oven's temperature for accuracy to prevent overbaking.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the cookies are not crispy enough, they may need more time in the oven.

Solution: Try baking the cookies a minute or two longer, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. You can also cool the cookies on a wire rack to help them crisp up.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked cookies will often be hard and crunchy.

Prevention: To prevent this, always set a timer and keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, removing them when they are just set at the edges.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Sometimes cookies may appear done on the edges but are still raw in the center.

Recovery: If this happens, return the cookies to the oven for a few more minutes. To prevent it in the future, use a baking sheet that promotes even cooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt cookies may result from too high of an oven temperature or baking too long.

Prevention: Check your oven's accuracy with an oven thermometer and consider lowering the temperature slightly if your cookies burn easily.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your cookies are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup next time.

Too Salty: For cookies that taste too salty, ensure you are using unsalted butter and check your salt measurements.

Bland: To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of salt or a splash more of vanilla extract.

Fresh ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies

Essential Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies

The key ingredients in this recipe are butter, sugars, flour, chocolate chips, and maraschino cherries. Each plays an important role in flavor and texture. For instance, the butter adds richness, while the sugars provide sweetness and help create a chewy texture.

Quality ingredients are essential for achieving the best results. Use fresh maraschino cherries and high-quality chocolate chips to enhance the flavor of your cookies. Fresh butter is important for a soft and moist cookie texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in your cookies. Make sure it is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugars.
  • Chocolate Chips: Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Feel free to mix in white chocolate for added sweetness and contrast.
  • Maraschino Cherries: Ensure you use high-quality maraschino cherries that are vibrant in color and have a rich flavor. Drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
Cooking process for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Baking these cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by preparing your ingredients and ensuring everything is at the right temperature. The key is to cream the butter and sugars until fluffy for a light texture.

Pay attention to the mixing steps, ensuring not to overmix once you add the flour. This will help maintain the cookies' soft and chewy characteristics while achieving a perfect bake.

Key Technique for Perfect Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies

The key technique in this recipe is the method of creaming the butter and sugars correctly. This aerates the mixture, helping to create a light and fluffy cookie. Always mix until just combined once you add the flour to prevent tough cookies.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    Packed, for moisture
  • 2 large eggs
    For binding
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    Flavor enhancer
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    For structure

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    For chocolate flavor
  • 1 cup maraschino cherries
    Chopped, for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts
    Optional, for crunch
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
    For chocolate richness
  • 1/4 cup milk
    Adds moisture
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    For dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

  2. Cream Butter and Sugars

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

  3. Add Eggs and Extracts

    Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.

  4. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.

  5. Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  6. Fold in Chocolate and Cherries

    Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries, and nuts if using.

  7. Scoop the Dough

    Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  8. Bake the Cookies

    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set.

  9. Cool and Serve

    Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They can also be enjoyed with a glass of cold milk, making them a delightful snack for both kids and adults.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding different types of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. You can also experiment with different chocolate types, like white chocolate or milk chocolate, to customize the flavor profile.