Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with a soft, buttery cookie base. These vibrant cookies not only look stunning with their bright red cherry halves, but they also pack a burst of flavor that will brighten any dessert table. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Recipe Overview
The beauty of Maraschino Cherry Cookies lies in their simplicity. Made with common pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter, the addition of maraschino cherries gives these cookies a unique flavor and a pop of color. The cherries are mixed into the dough and can also be placed on top for a decorative touch, making them visually appealing as well as tasty.
Baking these cookies is an easy and rewarding process. The dough comes together quickly, and the cookies bake to a soft, chewy perfection. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a fun and festive way to add a touch of sweetness to your day.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
– Servings: About 24 cookies
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Unique Flavor: The sweet and slightly tart flavor of maraschino cherries adds a delightful twist to traditional cookies.
2. Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
3. Festive Appearance: The bright red cherries make these cookies visually striking, ideal for holiday parties or gatherings.
4. Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies come out soft and chewy, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
5. Versatile: Great for various occasions, they can be enjoyed as a sweet treat with coffee or served at festive events.
Ingredients Notes
– Maraschino Cherries: Use well-drained cherries to avoid excess moisture in the dough. You can chop them if you prefer smaller pieces.
– Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness, but you can use salted butter if needed.
– Flour: All-purpose flour provides the best texture for these cookies.
– Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for sweetness, while brown sugar can be added for a touch of caramel flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries.
6. Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a whole maraschino cherry into the center of each cookie.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
Store Maraschino Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Variations and Substitutions
– Chocolate Variation: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate-cherry flavor.
– Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
– Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Conclusion
Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful and eye-catching treat that combines the sweet flavor of cherries with a soft, buttery cookie base. Their vibrant color and unique taste make them perfect for celebrations or simply as a special snack at home. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking collection. Try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness of Maraschino Cherry Cookies!