Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Introduction:

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive and delicious variation of the traditional chocolate chip cookie. The addition of maraschino cherries adds a burst of fruity sweetness and a pop of color, while the chocolate chips ensure every bite is extra indulgent. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a special treat!

Ingredients (Makes about 24 cookies):

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips)
  • ½ cup maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

  • In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries:

  • Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Scoop and Bake:

  • Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

8. Cool:

  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

  • Drain and dry cherries: Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
  • Don’t overbake: For soft and chewy cookies, remove them from the oven while they are still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
  • Chop cherries carefully: Chop the maraschino cherries into small pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dough and don’t overwhelm the cookies.

Recommendations:

Serve these Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a perfect treat. They’re also great for holiday cookie exchanges or as a fun surprise in lunchboxes.

Enjoy your colorful and delicious Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies!

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