Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combine the sweetness of cherries with a soft, buttery cookie base. These colorful cookies are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients

• 8 tbsp butter (one stick), melted
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/8 tsp red food coloring (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 16 oz maraschino cherries, drained

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish and pour it into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
3. Step 3: Add the white sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter and mix until well combined.
4. Step 4: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
5. Step 5: If using, add the red food coloring and stir to incorporate evenly.
6. Step 6: Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until the dough forms and ingredients are well blended.
7. Step 7: Drain the maraschino cherries well and slice them into halves or quarters. Gently fold the cherries into the dough.
8. Step 8: Shape the dough into balls and place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow for spreading. Slightly press each ball to flatten.
9. Step 9: Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, then let them cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra chewiness, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• If you prefer a more subtle cherry flavor, reduce the amount of maraschino cherries slightly.
• Substitute the red food coloring with natural beet juice for a natural tint.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a warm oven or microwave before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used, but they contain more moisture, which may affect the cookie texture. If using fresh, remove pits, chop, and consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly.

Is the red food coloring necessary?

No, the food coloring is optional and mainly used to enhance the cookie’s appearance. The cookies will still taste delicious without it.