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Chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies You'll Love

Published: Jul 1, 2025 by Lina maywgor · This post may contain affiliate links ·

As the holiday season rolls in, my kitchen transforms into a fragrant wonderland, filled with the warm scents of nostalgia and joy. This year, I found myself craving something a little different from the traditional cookie platter. Enter my irresistible Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies—an unexpected twist that combines chewy chocolate goodness with delightful bursts of sweet cherries.

Picture this: soft, melting chocolate chips dancing alongside bright pops of cherry, all enhanced by a sprinkle of flaked salt that balances the sweetness. Not only are these cookies a feast for the senses, but they also come together effortlessly—perfect for when you have surprise guests or need a festive treat to gift.

Join me in baking these delicious cookies that will become a cherished addition to your holiday celebrations! Whether you're hosting a cookie swap or simply looking to indulge, these treats are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies special?

Chewy and Sweet: These cookies bring together an irresistible blend of chewy texture and sweet cherry bursts that create a unique flavor experience.
Festive Twist: Perfect for the holiday season, they stand out on any cookie platter with their vibrant colors and flavors.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip these up in no time, making them ideal for unexpected gatherings.
Versatile Additions: Feel free to mix in nuts or try different types of chocolate for variation—creativity is welcome!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family or friends, these cookies are sure to be a hit, bringing smiles with each bite.

If you’re looking for another delightful dessert, check out my easy buñuelos recipe to add even more festive flair to your celebrations!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to keep your cookies chewy.
• Baking soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise just right.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Salted butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture; using salted butter is critical for flavor balance.
• Brown sugar – Provides moisture and chewiness with a hint of molasses flavor.
• Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in achieving a lovely browning.
• Egg + egg yolk (room temperature) – Binds ingredients while adding richness; room temperature allows for better emulsification.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors, boosting that homemade cookie magic.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Delivers a rich chocolate flavor and delightful texture.
• Maraschino cherries (patted dry and chopped) – Offers sweet and tart bursts of cherry flavor; drying them prevents the cookies from becoming too wet.

For the Topping
• Flaked salt – A finishing touch that adds a sweet and salty contrast to these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

  2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until evenly combined. This will ensure your cookies have the perfect rise and flavor balance.

  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixer, cream the softened salted butter and both sugars together until fluffy—about 5 minutes. This step is key for creating a delightful, chewy texture in your cookies.

  4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and egg yolk until just combined, then add in the vanilla extract. This will enrich the dough, making it extra delicious.

  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Remember, overmixing can lead to tougher cookies!

  6. Fold in Chocolate and Cherries: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries. This is where the magic happens—make sure the cherries are patted dry!

  7. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop dough into 1.5 to 2 tablespoon balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.

  8. Bake Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until just set. Watch for a golden edge while the center remains a bit soft.

  9. Add Flaked Salt: As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle a pinch of flaked salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.

  10. Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. This helps them firm up and makes for a perfect bite!

Optional: For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Dry Cherries Well: Thoroughly pat the maraschino cherries dry to prevent the cookies from spreading too much and becoming too wet.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal emulsification, resulting in a chewier texture.

• Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to minimize spreading, especially in warmer kitchens.

• Choose Your Chocolate: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended, feel free to swap in dark or milk chocolate chips for a variety tailored to your taste.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking; they should be set with a slightly soft center for perfect chewiness.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Feel inspired to make these delightful cookies your own with a few simple tweaks.

  • Luxardo Cherries: Substitute luxardo cherries for a more sophisticated flavor profile that adds a hint of tanginess.
  • Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture.
  • Almond Extract: Add a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla for a lovely marzipan vibe that enhances the cherry flavor.
  • Chocolate-Free: Skip the chocolate chips altogether to let the cherries shine as the star of the cookie.
  • Oatmeal Twist: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for a heartier texture and a boost of fiber.
  • Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that adds a festive flair perfect for Christmas.
  • Spicy Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of cherries.
  • Sugar Alternative: Substitute coconut sugar or a sugar alternative to make these cookies a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Each of these variations offers a personal touch, letting you create a cookie that suits your taste and the occasion. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they're in a tightly sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating: To bring back their fresh-baked goodness, warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring you retain that delightful chewiness in your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.

What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Beneath the aroma of freshly baked cookies, let’s create a charming holiday spread that will leave everyone satisfied.

  • Milk: The classic pairing! A cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and complements the rich chocolate flavor in the cookies.
  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Indulge in this festive drink that adds a delightful contrast to the cookies with its creamy, minty notes.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies warm alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing the chocolate to melt ever-so-slightly for a decadent treat.
  • Fruit Salad: Add a refreshing touch! A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and provides a burst of freshness.
  • Cheese Platter: The richness of a soft cheese like brie or a sharp cheddar adds an unexpected twist, enhancing the cookies' flavors perfectly.
  • Spiced Cider: A warm cup of spiced cider evokes cozy feelings and pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherry flavors of the cookies.
  • Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy contrast, serve some nutty biscotti on the side; they add delightful texture to your dessert table.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for those who adore an even richer chocolate experience.

Create memories with this blissful array of pairings that will make your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies the star of any gathering!

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select maraschino cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for bright, vibrant colors without dark spots all over, which can indicate spoilage. The cherries should be firm and dry; I often pat them with a paper towel before using to ensure they don’t add excess moisture to the cookie dough.

How should I store my cookies after baking?
Very simply! Store your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week, just make sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Yes, you can! First, scoop out the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze the balls in a single layer for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What should I do if my cookies spread too thin while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading too much, it's often due to the moisture content in the cherries. Here’s a step-by-step fix: First, make sure to dry the maraschino cherries thoroughly. If you're still having issues, try chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help keep them from spreading too thin during the baking process.

Can pets eat these cookies?
Not at all, sadly! The chocolate and sugar in these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are harmful to pets. It’s best to avoid giving any baked goods to your furry friends to keep them safe and sound.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains common allergens including wheat (from the flour), dairy (from the butter), and eggs. If you need to modify for dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour, a dairy-free butter alternative, or a flax egg to substitute the regular egg. Just ensure to check the labels for potential cross-contaminants.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Lina maywgor

Chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies You'll Love

Enjoy the delightful twist of chewy Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies for the holiday season.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 12 minutes mins
Total Time 27 minutes mins
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup salted butter softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg + egg yolk room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup maraschino cherries patted dry and chopped
  • Flaked salt for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixer, cream the softened salted butter and both sugars together until fluffy—about 5 minutes.
  4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and egg yolk until just combined, then add in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
  6. Fold in Chocolate and Cherries: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries.
  7. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop dough into 1.5 to 2 tablespoon balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until just set. Watch for a golden edge while the center remains a bit soft.
  9. Add Flaked Salt: As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle a pinch of flaked salt on top.
  10. Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10g

Notes

  • Dry Cherries Well: Thoroughly pat the maraschino cherries dry to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal emulsification.
  • Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
  • Choose Your Chocolate: Swap in dark or milk chocolate chips for a variation.
  • Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

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