Here's a sweet treat for all dessert lovers - Maraschino Cherry Cookies! These cookies, dotted with bright red maraschino cherries, aren't just visually appealing; they are incredibly tasty too. Each bite brings you a combination of sweet, tangy, and a slight hint of almond flavor that is downright addictive.
Ideal for parties, holidays, or just a regular day when you feel like indulging, these cookies are easy to make and a delight to share. So, put on your apron, bring out those baking tools, and let's get ready to bake some scrumptious Maraschino Cherry Cookies.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it's simple and easy to follow. The ingredients are straightforward, most of which might already be in your pantry. Maraschino cherries bring a unique, sweet-tangy flavor to the cookies that is a lovely break from the usual chocolate and vanilla. They also add a festive pop of color, making these cookies look as delectable as they taste.
Secondly, the recipe incorporates almond extract. Almond and cherries are a classic flavor combination; the nuttiness of almond perfectly complements the sweetness of cherries, enhancing the overall taste. If you haven't tried this pair in a cookie before, you're in for a delicious surprise. Finally, these Maraschino Cherry Cookies are versatile. They're a hit at holiday parties, yes, but they also make a delightful snack with your evening tea or a surprise lunchbox treat for your kids. With this recipe, you get to add a cherry-on-top moment to any part of your day.
Ingredients
Maraschino cherries - These are cherries that have been preserved in a sugar syrup and flavored with almond extract or a hint of cherry. They add a unique sweet and tangy flavor to these cookies. If you can't find them, glazed cherries or dried cherries soaked in rum or brandy can be used as a substitute.
All-purpose flour - The backbone of many cookie recipes, all-purpose flour gives the cookie its structure. You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour if you're catering to gluten-free guests.
Butter - It gives cookies their rich flavor and contributes to their tender crumb. Margarine or vegan butter can be used as a substitute if needed, but the flavor might be slightly different.
Granulated sugar - This sweetens the cookies and helps them brown. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, coconut sugar or stevia can be used, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor.
Almond extract - It enhances the flavor of the cookies and complements the maraschino cherries. You could also use vanilla extract if almond extract is not available.
Tips
- Allow your butter to reach room temperature before mixing. It helps it blend better with the sugar.
- When combining your dry ingredients, whisk them together to prevent clumping.
- Don't overmix the dough as it could result in tough cookies.
- For consistent baking, try to keep all cookies the same size.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them set properly.
How to Serve
Maraschino cherry cookies are delightful on their own, but their vibrant color and sweet, fruity flavor make them a flexible choice for various serving styles. For a festive feel, these cookies can be incorporated into a holiday dessert spread, paired with other colorful cookies and treats.
- Serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy ice cream pairs well with the sweet, slightly tart cherry flavor.
- Create a cookie sandwich by spreading a thin layer of cream cheese frosting between two cookies.
- Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate for a comforting dessert or snack.
Similar Recipes
Instant Pot Halloween Sugar Cookies
Maraschino Cherry Cookies
Ingredients
- ½ cup maraschino cherries drained and chopped
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until it's creamy. Add the sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add the almond extract and mix well.
- Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Notes
- Allow your butter to reach room temperature before mixing. It helps it blend better with the sugar.
- When combining your dry ingredients, whisk them together to prevent clumping.
- Don't overmix the dough as it could result in tough cookies.
- For consistent baking, try to keep all cookies the same size.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them set properly.