The holiday season is upon us, and that means one thing: it’s time to bake! The warmth of the oven, the sweet aroma of cookies wafting through the house, and the joy of sharing treats with loved ones create memories that last a lifetime. This time of year always reminds me of decorating cookies with colorful icing and, of course, the delightful taste of maraschino cherries. These vibrant little cherries add a pop of color and flavor to any festive cookie recipe, making them a must-have in your holiday baking repertoire.
If you’re someone who loves to bring joy to gatherings with festive cookie recipes, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this collection of maraschino cherry cookie recipes is perfect for you. I pulled together ten easy cookie recipes that are delicious, fun to make, and sure to impress your family and friends. Each recipe is a sweet cherry treat that brings that same warm feeling home, making your holiday baking even more special.
Get ready for a delightful baking adventure! You’ll find everything from classic maraschino cherry cookies to unique flavors like cherry almond biscotti and pumpkin cookies. With these festive recipes, you’ll have something to satisfy every sweet tooth at your holiday gatherings.
Key Takeaways
– Discover ten unique maraschino cherry cookie recipes that are perfect for your holiday baking.
– Each recipe combines simple ingredients and festive flavors, making it easy for bakers of all levels to create delicious treats.
– Enjoy a variety of flavors, including chocolate chip, oatmeal, and even meringue, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
– Learn how to incorporate maraschino cherries into your cookies for that special touch that elevates your baking game.
– Get inspired with creative ideas for sharing and presenting your holiday cookies, perfect for gift-giving or parties.
How To Choose The Right Maraschino Cherries
When it comes to baking with maraschino cherries, choosing the right ones can make a difference in your cookies. Here are some tips to help you select the best cherries for your baking needs.
1. Type of Cherries: There are two main types of maraschino cherries: classic and gourmet. Classic cherries are often sweeter and have a bright red color, while gourmet varieties may have a richer flavor and deeper color. Decide what flavor profile you prefer for your cookies.
2. Brand Quality: Not all maraschino cherries are created equal. Look for brands that use high-quality ingredients without artificial colors or flavors. Reading reviews or trying a few brands can help you find your favorite.
3. Packaging: Cherries come in jars or cans. Jars are great for ease of use, while cans can be more economical for larger baking projects. Consider how many cookies you plan to make and choose accordingly.
4. Drainage: Check if the cherries are packed in syrup. If so, be prepared to drain them before using in your cookie recipes. Too much syrup can make your cookies too moist.
5. Color and Texture: Look for cherries that are bright in color and firm to the touch. Avoid any that appear overly soft or discolored, as they may not hold up well in baking.
Pro Tip: Always taste a cherry before using it in your recipes to ensure that the flavor is exactly what you want for your festive cookies!
How Do Maraschino Cherry Cookies Work?
Understanding how maraschino cherry cookies come together can enhance your baking experience. Here’s a simple overview of the process that helps you achieve the perfect cookie texture and flavor.
– Prepare Your Base: Start by creaming butter and sugar together until fluffy. This creates a light base for your cookies.
– Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs into the mixture one at a time. This adds moisture and binds the ingredients together.
– Mix in Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
– Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries. This step is crucial; you want to distribute them evenly without overmixing.
– Bake: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until the cookies are lightly golden, and allow them to cool before serving.
Best for: Cookies that are soft and chewy with bursts of sweet cherry flavor in every bite!
How To Use Maraschino Cherries in Your Cookie Recipes
Ready to add maraschino cherries to your baking? Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you get the most out of these delightful fruits.
Tools You’ll Need:
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Spatula
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Start by draining the maraschino cherries. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help your cookies maintain the right texture.
Step 2: Chop Cherries
Using a sharp knife, chop the cherries into small pieces. This ensures they distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough.
Step 3: Incorporate into Dough
As you mix the cookie dough, add the chopped cherries after combining the dry and wet ingredients. Gently fold them in to avoid squishing.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
If your dough feels too wet due to the cherries, consider adding a little extra flour to balance it out. You want a dough that holds its shape.
Step 5: Bake & Enjoy
Scoop the dough onto your baking sheets and bake according to the recipe. Let them cool, then dig in and enjoy your sweet cherry treats!
⏱ Time: ~30 minutes prep | 💡 Tip: Experiment with adding different types of nuts or chocolate chips along with the cherries for extra flavor!
1. Classic Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Craving a sweet treat that brings back memories? These Classic Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday spread. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies offer a burst of color and flavor, thanks to the sweet cherries nestled within. They’re perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or cozy nights at home with a cup of tea.
Making these cookies is a breeze, and they deliver on taste and nostalgia. The cherries add a pleasant sweetness that complements the buttery cookie base beautifully, making each bite a joy to savor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
5. Fold in the chopped cherries and nuts.
6. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, but make sure to pit and chop them first.
– How do I store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Classic Maraschino Cherry Cookies
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2. Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
What could be better than combining chocolate and cherries into one delicious cookie? These Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are a true crowd-pleaser. The rich chocolate chips melt perfectly with the sweet cherries, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Perfect alongside a glass of milk or to impress guests at your next gathering!
These cookies are easy to prepare and offer a unique twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie. The addition of cherries enhances the flavor profile, making them a standout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until combined.
4. In another bowl, mix flour and baking soda, then gradually add it to the wet ingredients.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
8. Cool on wire racks before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute the chocolate chips? Yes, try white chocolate for a fun twist!
– How long do they last? Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
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Looking to elevate your holiday baking? These Cherry Almond Biscotti are the perfect choice! Their crunchy texture makes them ideal for dipping in coffee or tea, adding a delightful touch to your festive gatherings. The combination of maraschino cherries and almond extract creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love!
These biscotti are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a great addition to your cookie tray this season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup almond meal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, almond meal, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and almond extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the cherries.
5. Shape the dough into a log, about 2 inches wide, and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then cool slightly.
7. Slice the log diagonally and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp.
8. Store in an airtight container.
FAQs:
– Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they last well in an airtight container.
– How should I store biscotti? Keep them chilled for a longer shelf life.
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4. Maraschino Cherry Snickerdoodles
Imagine a classic snickerdoodle with a fruity twist. These Maraschino Cherry Snickerdoodles do just that! Each cookie combines the soft, chewy texture you love with the sweet burst of cherries. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds a festive flair that’s simply irresistible!
Perfect for any holiday occasion, these cookies will surely become a favorite for your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon for rolling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
5. Fold in the chopped cherries.
6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough, roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and place on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
8. Allow to cool before transferring.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute the cherries with another fruit? Yes! Diced strawberries work well too.
– Are these cookies soft or crunchy? They are soft and chewy with a slightly crispy edge.
Holiday baking finally feels doable with maraschino cherry cookies. Snickerdoodles meet fruity festivity in every bite, and sharing them turns ordinary evenings into memories. Pro tip: keep a jar of cherries on hand for easy, festive sweet treats.
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5. Maraschino Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Want a cookie that feels indulgent yet wholesome? These Maraschino Cherry Oatmeal Cookies fit the bill! The chewy oats combined with sweet cherries create a nutritious treat that’s satisfying and delicious. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or as a wholesome snack for all ages!
These cookies strike a balance between flavor and nutrition, making them a delightful option for your holiday baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
4. In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
5. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
6. Fold in the chopped cherries.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden.
9. Let cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, they freeze well for up to three months.
– What can I substitute if I don’t have cherries? Dried cranberries or raisins can work!
Indulgence you can feel good about—these maraschino cherry cookies mix chewy oats with bright cherries for a wholesome treat. Keep it simple: use oats, moderate the flour, and bake just until golden. Perfect for holiday gatherings and snacks for all ages.
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6. Maraschino Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Add a touch of elegance to your cookie platter with these Maraschino Cherry Thumbprint Cookies! With a buttery cookie base and a delightful cherry center, they’re not just visually appealing but also incredibly tasty! These cookies are perfect for gifting or simply enjoying with your loved ones, making every occasion feel special!
Easy to make and delicious, these cookies will bring smiles to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour until the mixture is well combined.
5. Roll into small balls and place on the baking sheet.
6. Use your thumb to create an indention in the center of each cookie.
7. Place half a maraschino cherry in each thumbprint.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
9. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, but be sure to pit them first.
– How should I store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container in a cool place.
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7. Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies
Celebrate the season with these delightful Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies! Soft, sweet, and packed with flavor, these cookies are perfect for any holiday occasion. The cherries add a fun twist to the traditional sugar cookie, making them a hit with kids and adults alike!
These sugar cookies are not only easy to make but also a fun way to spice up your holiday baking.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until creamy.
4. In another bowl, mix the flour and baking powder together, then gradually add to the butter mixture.
5. Fold in the chopped cherries.
6. Roll dough into small balls and place on baking sheet.
7. Press down lightly with a fork or your palm.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
9. Cool on wire racks.
FAQs:
– Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but the texture might vary slightly.
– What can I do with leftover dough? You can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for future use.
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If you love buttery cookies, these Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies are a must-try! Their rich, crumbly texture melts in your mouth, while the cherries give a fun twist to this classic treat. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they’re an elegant addition to any holiday cookie tray!
These cookies are simple to make and are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour and cornstarch until well combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Roll dough into balls and place on the baking sheet, flattening slightly.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
7. Cool on wire racks.
FAQs:
– Can I use another fruit in this recipe? Yes, try using dried cranberries for a different taste.
– How should I store these cookies? Keep in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Maraschino cherry cookies aren’t fussy—they’re a cozy smile on a plate. Bake a dozen, share a few with friends, and you’ll see how simple, buttery shortbread turns into holiday cheer in every bite.
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9. Maraschino Cherry Pumpkin Cookies
Combine the warm spice of pumpkin with the sweet pop of cherries in these Maraschino Cherry Pumpkin Cookies! These soft, flavorful cookies are perfect for fall or holiday gatherings. Their unique flavor profile and delightful color make them stand out on any cookie platter!
These cookies are easy to whip up and are sure to be a hit at your next celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, butter, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
4. Mix together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon in another bowl.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
6. Fold in the chopped cherries.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes.
8. Cool on a wire rack.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute fresh pumpkin? Yes, but ensure it’s well-drained.
– How do I store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
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Amazon$25.9910. Maraschino Cherry Meringue Cookies
Lighten up your festive baking with these Maraschino Cherry Meringue Cookies! These airy and sweet treats are not only delightful to eat but also add a pop of color to your dessert table. Perfect for a light dessert or snack, they’re a charming addition to any holiday spread!
These meringue cookies are easy to make and will wow your guests with their unique texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Mix in vanilla extract and gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Drop spoonfuls of meringue onto the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 hour until dry and crisp.
7. Turn off the oven and let meringues cool inside for better texture.
FAQs:
– Can I add food coloring? Yes, but use gel coloring for the best results.
– How should I store meringue cookies? Keep them in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
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Conclusion
Maraschino cherry cookies are not just delicious; they also bring a vibrant splash of color and festive cheer to your holiday baking! From classic recipes to innovative twists, these cookies are sure to delight everyone during the holiday season. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo, each bite is a reminder of sweet moments spent in the kitchen. So grab your apron, mix up a batch or two, and let the holiday spirit shine through with these charming cherry delights!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are maraschino cherry cookies and why are they popular in festive baking?
Maraschino cherry cookies are cookies that feature chopped maraschino cherries or cherry juice, delivering a bright red look and a sweet-tart bite. They’re a natural fit for festive cookie recipes and popular in holiday baking ideas because they pair with white chocolate, almond, or vanilla frostings. For best results, pat the cherries dry to avoid soggy dough, fold them gently into your batter, and consider a splash of almond extract to deepen the flavor. Finish with a thin glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
How can I adapt maraschino cherry cookies for Christmas, Easter, or other holidays?
Absolutely. Maraschino cherry cookies can be dressed up for any holiday with simple tweaks. For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles and a white chocolate drizzle. For Easter, swap to a citrus note (orange or lemon extract) and pastel decorations. For other occasions, try peppermint or almond extracts and color-themed decorations. These tweaks keep your bake within the realm of festive cookie recipes and holiday baking ideas while highlighting sweet cherry treats.
What are the easiest maraschino cherry cookie recipes I can try this season?
Here’s a super simple approach to maraschino cherry cookies—great for easy cookie recipes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In one bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter with 3/4 cup sugar, beat in 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla. In another bowl whisk 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, a pinch of salt; fold dry into wet just until combined. Gently fold in 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (well dried). Chill dough 30 minutes, then drop by rounded tablespoons onto a parchment-lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool on a rack. Optional: press a few white chocolate chips on top or drizzle with a glaze.
How should I store or freeze maraschino cherry cookies for holiday gatherings?
To keep them fresh, store maraschino cherry cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer with parchment to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for 2-3 months, or freeze the dough for future baking by shaping into logs and wrapping tightly. When ready to bake, thaw dough and bake as usual. For stacking, add parchment between layers to avoid sticking and preserve the bright cherry color.
Are there dairy-free or gluten-free options for maraschino cherry cookies?
Yes—there are tasty dairy-free and gluten-free options for maraschino cherry cookies. Use plant-based butter or neutral oil/shortening instead of dairy butter. If you need an egg substitute, try a flax egg or applesauce; For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with a touch of xanthan gum. You may need a bit more liquid or a slightly longer bake, so test a small batch first. These tweaks keep the cookies as delightful as sweet cherry treats while accommodating dietary needs.
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