Name: Irresistibly Soft Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (can be omitted); 1 teaspoon baking soda (acts as a leavening agent); 1 pinch salt (balances sweetness); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (swap for white chocolate chips for variation); ½ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); ½ cup light brown sugar (dark brown sugar works too for deeper flavor); ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust amount according to taste); 1 large egg (room temperature for easier mixing); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (no substitutes recommended); ½ teaspoon almond extract (can be omitted); a few drops pink gel food coloring (avoid liquid food colorings); 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained and finely chopped); 1 cup nuts (optional for added crunch); ½ cup extra maraschino cherries (for a cherry overload); 1 cup white chocolate chips (for sweet contrast); festive sprinkles (for topping)

A soft, chewy cookie filled with bright pops of color and flavor can instantly elevate any gathering. These Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip treat, harmonizing nostalgic flavors with an eye-catching pink hue. Within just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch that’s not only versatile but also gluten-free-friendly, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving something sweet at home, these crowd-pleasers promise to deliver smiles with every bite. Ready to dive into a world of cookie creativity and savor the magic of cherries and chocolate? Let’s get started!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Irresistibly Chewy: The texture of these Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies is simply unbeatable—soft, chewy, and just the right amount of crisp on the edges.

Vibrant Celebration: Their stunning pink hue and delightful cherry flavor make them perfect for festive occasions or when you want to brighten up a regular day.

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies baking while you prepare the rest of your gathering.

Versatile Flavor Variations: Easily customize with gluten-free options or swap in white chocolate chips for a unique twist. Add nuts for an extra crunch or festive sprinkles for special occasions!

Crowd-Pleasing Favorites: They’re a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike, making these cookies perfect for birthdays and potlucks or simply as a sweet treat at home. Pair them with Sweet Coconut Cream Pancakes for a delightful dessert table that impresses!

Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Cornstarch – Adds an exceptionally soft and chewy texture; can be omitted if you prefer a simpler recipe.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies to rise and become soft.
Salt – Balances the sweetness, ensuring every bite is just right.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds rich sweetness; swap for white chocolate chips for a delightful variation.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes a rich flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar works wonderfully for deeper flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; feel free to adjust the amount according to your taste.
Large Egg – Binds all the ingredients together; using a room temperature egg makes mixing easier.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s flavor; no substitutes recommended, as it’s essential.
Almond Extract – Adds a nice nutty aroma; can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile.
Pink Gel Food Coloring – Brings a vibrant color to your cookies; avoid liquid food colorings for the best results.
Maraschino Cherries – Adds sweet, fruity flavor; be sure to drain and finely chop for even distribution in the dough.

For Variations

Nuts – Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans provides a delightful crunch.
Extra Cherries – Boost the cherry flavor by increasing the maraschino cherries to 1.5 cups for a cherry overload!
White Chocolate Chips – Replace semi-sweet chips with white chocolate for a sweet contrast.
Festive Sprinkles – Top cookies with colorful sprinkles to celebrate special occasions.

These Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies are not just visually stunning; they’re adaptable and deliciously addictive!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This allows for easy cookie removal once baked. The sweet aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen shortly! Ensure you have your mixing bowls, whisk, and measuring cups at the ready for smooth transitions in the following steps.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This combination will provide structure and the perfect chewy texture for your Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies. Once well blended, set this bowl aside, allowing you to focus on the wet ingredients next.

Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. The fluffy texture signals that it’s well combined, and this step is crucial for achieving that irresistible soft cookie texture.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
To the creamed butter and sugar, add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a few drops of pink gel food coloring. If you like, you can also add ½ teaspoon of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. Mix everything until just combined, ensuring the colors and flavors are evenly distributed in your sweet cherry cookie dough.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a thick dough forms. This should take just a minute or two. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Your Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookie dough will start to take shape, and the vibrant color will emerge, ready to embrace delightful cherries and chocolate.

Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The chopped cherries will add their sweet flavor, and you’ll soon see beautiful bursts of color throughout, making these cookies as visually exciting as they are delicious!

Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough into balls, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart. For an extra touch, press a few more chocolate chips and pieces of cherry on top of each dough ball. This creates an appealing presentation and ensures you get a nice serving of each delightful ingredient.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden, while the centers should remain soft and slightly underbaked. The aroma drifting through your kitchen will signal that these Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies are almost ready to snack on!

Step 9: Let Them Cool
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This allows them to set and become less fragile for transferring. The vibrant color and sweet scent will entice everyone in the house, making it hard to resist diving in too soon.

Step 10: Transfer to Wire Rack
Finally, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them stay chewy while allowing any excess heat to escape. Once cooled, these Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies are ready to be enjoyed, whether you share with friends or keep them for yourself as a sweet treat!

Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to those with gluten sensitivities. They’ll still be just as soft and delicious!
Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. The extra texture will surprise everyone with every bite.
White Chocolate Wonder: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier contrast to the cherry flavor. This twist gives you a new favorite!
Extra Cherry: For a cherry overload, increase the maraschino cherries to 1.5 cups. This will provide a delightful burst of fruity flavor that’s perfect for cherry lovers.
Festive Sprinkles: Top your cookies with festive sprinkles or colored sugar for a fun, seasonal touch. It dresses them up like a party on a plate!
Cinnamon Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm cozy flavor, perfect for fall gatherings or winter holidays. It transforms the classic cookie experience!
Dark Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, deeper flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that will make your cookies delightful and unexpected, especially during the holidays.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Try serving these cookies with Sweet Cinnamon Twists for a fun dessert spread or enjoy them alongside Fudgy Cherry Brownies for a chocolatey indulgence!

What to Serve with Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Elevate your cookie experience with delightful pairings that bring warmth and flavor to your gathering.

Milk: The classic duo; a glass of cold milk perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert treat; the contrast of warm and cold is heavenly!
Coffee: A rich, bold brew enhances the cherry and chocolate flavors, creating a cozy vibe—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Cherry Blondies: For a colorful dessert table, serve these alongside cherry blondies for a fun and festive touch; together they’ll brighten any occasion.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a crisp texture that beautifully complements the chewy cookies, perfect for balancing sweetness.
Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich hot chocolate, drizzled with chocolate syrup, turns snack time into a warm, comforting moment—ideal for chilly evenings.
Sparkling Water: The effervescence of sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites of these sweet treats, making it a refreshing beverage choice.
Nuts: A handful of roasted almonds or walnuts offer crunchy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor experience while adding a healthy touch.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a delightful topping, transforming cookies into mini sundaes perfect for a festive gathering.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled cookie, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent absorbing other odors.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until just warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps to develop the flavors while keeping the dough fresh and ready to scoop. Additionally, you can portion the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just place the cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of minutes to the baking time. With these make ahead tips, you’ll enjoy the deliciousness of freshly baked cookies without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies

Butter Tip: Ensure butter is fully softened: This allows for better mixing with sugars, leading to a fluffier cookie dough.

Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the baking time: Overbaking can result in dry cookies; take them out when the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.

Chill for Thickness: For thicker cookies, chill the dough: If it feels too wet, refrigerate for 30 minutes or gradually add more flour to your Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies.

Measure Accurately: Weigh your flour instead of using a measuring cup: This helps prevent dense cookies, ensuring they remain light and chewy.

Coloring Caution: Use gel food coloring over liquid: Gel provides better vibrancy without altering the dough’s consistency.

Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries are best for this recipe?
For these colorful Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies, be sure to use maraschino cherries! They have a sweet and vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate chips. Drain them well and chop them finely to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is the way to go! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking for even better texture.

What if my cookie dough seems too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to handle. Alternatively, if it’s still overly wet after chilling, gradually add a little more flour, just a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt these Sweet Maraschino Cherry Cookies to be gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help achieve the right texture. They’ll still be just as delightful!

What should I do if my cookies turn out flat?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, it could be due to softened butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is at the right temperature and consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour next time to achieve the perfect thickness. Keeping an eye on the baking time can also prevent them from flattening out!