There’s something nostalgic and downright irresistible about the combination of bright red maraschino cherries and rich, melty chocolate chips. These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Delight Cookies are soft, buttery, perfectly sweet, and bursting with pockets of cherry-chocolate goodness in every bite.
As a lifelong cookie enthusiast, I’m always looking for ways to elevate a classic chocolate chip cookie. The pop of cherry flavor adds a subtle fruity sweetness that balances beautifully with the richness of chocolate. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie exchange, or just because your sweet tooth says it’s time — this recipe delivers every single time.
Let’s dive in.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes these cookies special isn’t just the flavor — it’s the texture. You get:
- Soft, chewy centers
- Slightly crisp golden edges
- Gooey chocolate chips
- Juicy bursts of cherry
The maraschino cherries add color and sweetness without overpowering the cookie. They also make these cookies visually stunning — perfect for gifting or special occasions.
If you love classic cookie flavors but enjoy a fun twist, you’ll also appreciate recipes like These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime and These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Are My Favorite Fall Treat in Bite-Sized Form.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1½ cups chocolate chips
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
Maraschino Cherries:
Be sure to drain them well and pat dry. Excess moisture can alter the dough texture.
Chocolate Chips:
Semi-sweet is classic, but dark chocolate creates a deeper, richer flavor. Milk chocolate will make them sweeter.
Flavor Twist:
Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries or cranberries if you want a more tart, natural fruit note.
Butter Tip:
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Proper creaming creates the perfect chewy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined — avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop and Space
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are just turning golden brown.
9. Cool
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Drain & Dry Thoroughly: This is crucial for preventing soggy dough.
- Don’t Overbake: They’ll continue cooking on the hot sheet after removal.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform size and even baking.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These cookies shine on their own, but they’re even better when paired thoughtfully:
- Serve alongside This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days for a bright, fruity contrast.
- Create an indulgent dessert spread with This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert.
- For a rich, creamy finish to a gathering, add This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack.
They’re also perfect for holiday cookie trays, Valentine’s treats, or simply enjoying warm with a glass of cold milk.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approximate)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezing Baked Cookies:
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Freezing Dough:
Scoop dough balls onto a tray and freeze. Once solid, transfer to freezer bags. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re in a baking mood, don’t stop here. Try:
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime
- These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Are My Favorite Fall Treat in Bite-Sized Form
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert
Final Thoughts
These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Delight Cookies are proof that a simple twist on a classic can create something truly special. They’re colorful, comforting, and packed with flavor — the kind of cookie that disappears fast from any dessert table.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you stick with maraschino cherries, or experiment with a different fruit? Leave a comment, share with a friend, and follow along for more crave-worthy recipes from my kitchen to yours.
Happy baking! 🍪🍒
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