Name: Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) (Ensure butter is softened for better mixing.); ½ cup white granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature) (Use room temperature for better mixing.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon maraschino cherry juice from a jar; Pink gel food coloring (Optional, for fun color.); 1 ½ - 2 cups all-purpose flour (Adjust for dough consistency.); ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Can be substituted with white or dark chocolate.)

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Cherry chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance the tartness of cherries with the richness of chocolate. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie filled with bursts of cherry sweetness and melted chocolate—pure bliss! I first made this recipe on a cozy Sunday afternoon, and since then, it’s become a favorite among my friends and family. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering, give a special gift, or simply indulge in a sweet craving, these cookies are a fantastic choice.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are so many reasons to whip up a batch of cherry chocolate chip cookies. For starters, they are incredibly easy to make, meaning you won’t need to spend all day in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of flavors—sweet chocolate, tangy cherries, and a hint of vanilla—creates a uniquely satisfying experience. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dessert to festive gatherings.

"These cherry chocolate chip cookies are hands down the best cookies I’ve ever made! The flavors are so vibrant, and they disappeared faster than I could put them on the table."

Preparing Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe is straightforward, making it a great activity for those new to baking or an enjoyable project with kids. You’ll mix your wet ingredients first, then combine them with the dry ones for a well-balanced dough. With minimal effort, you’ll be able to create luscious cookies that are sure to impress.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the butter and sugars until fluffy, then add the egg and vanilla.
Incorporate the cherry juice and food coloring before blending in the flour mixture.
Stir in the cherries and chocolate chips, scoop, and bake.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a quick shopping list for your baking adventure:

¼ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
½ cup white granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 egg (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon maraschino cherry juice from a jar
Pink gel food coloring (for that fun pop)
1 ½ – 2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies on a plate, a perfect dessert treat.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter with the sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and incorporate the cherry juice and pink gel food coloring until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. The dough should feel slightly sticky but manageable; add more flour if necessary.
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula.
Using a cookie scoop, form balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops look opaque and the edges are just golden brown.
Finally, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Cherry chocolate chip cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving game! Try pairing them with:

A glass of cold milk or milk alternatives
A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent sundae
Fresh strawberries for a refreshing twist

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you somehow have leftover cookies (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking or even freeze the baked cookies themselves. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe container and separated with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Room temperature ingredients are essential! Let your butter and egg come to room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t skip the chilling! Letting the dough rest for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help with cookie texture.
Try sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top before baking to amplify the flavor.

Creative Twists

Feel free to add a personal touch to these cookies! Here are some fun variations to try:

Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.
Spice it up: A sprinkle of cinnamon or almond extract can add an extra layer of flavor.
Celebrate seasonal changes: Use seasonal fruits like cranberries or blueberries in place of cherries.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make these cookies?

Prep time is around 15-20 minutes, followed by baking for 12-15 minutes.

Can I substitute the maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used if they are in season, or you can opt for dried cherries for a chewier texture.

How should I store these cookies for best freshness?

As mentioned earlier, an airtight container at room temperature will keep them fresh for several days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

Now that you’ve got the scoop on making these delightful cherry chocolate chip cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy the joyous flavors and share (or not!) with those you love.