Delicious Cherry Chip Cookie Recipe: A Sweet Delight!

Looking for a delicious cherry chip cookie recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further! These mouthwatering treats are the perfect combination of tart cherries and sweet chocolate chips, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of these cherry chip cookies. Get ready to bake up a storm as we guide you through the steps to create this delectable treat. Let’s dive in!

Cherry Chip Cookie Recipe

Who can resist the sweet and tangy combination of cherries and chocolate? If you’re a fan of these delightful flavors, then this cherry chip cookie recipe is perfect for you. These soft and chewy cookies are loaded with vibrant maraschino cherries and rich chocolate chips, making them a tasty treat for any occasion. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating these delicious cookies. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients

To make these cherry chip cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a delightful flavor)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, whichever you prefer)

Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these scrumptious cherry chip cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a stand mixer or a hand mixer for this step.

3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts add another layer of flavor to the cookies, enhancing the cherry and chocolate combination.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can result in a tougher texture.

5. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The vibrant red cherries and chocolate chips create a beautiful contrast against the golden cookie base.

6. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can slightly flatten the dough with your hand or the back of a spoon for a more even shape.

7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. The centers may still look slightly soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.

8. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the sheets before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This will help the cookies set and prevent them from falling apart.

9. Once the cherry chip cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be enjoyed for up to one week, if they last that long!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cherry chip cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

– Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will help create a light and fluffy texture in the cookies.
– Drain the maraschino cherries well and pat them dry before chopping. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the cookies.
– If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a teaspoon or two of maraschino cherry juice to the dough.
– Feel free to mix up the type of chocolate chips you use. White chocolate or dark chocolate chips can also complement the cherries well.
– Don’t overbake the cookies. They may look slightly underdone in the center when you remove them from the oven, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Customization Ideas

While these cherry chip cookies are already delicious as is, you can get creative and customize them to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

– Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
– Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the cookies before baking for added crunch.
– Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top of the cookies just before baking to give them a sparkly finish.
– Experiment with different extracts to enhance the flavor profile. Mint extract can add a refreshing twist, while coconut extract can create a tropical vibe.

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge needed, it’s time to get baking and enjoy these delightful cherry chip cookies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherries in this cherry chip cookie recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries for canned cherries in this recipe. However, keep in mind that canned cherries are already sweetened and cooked, so you may need to adjust the sugar and cooking time accordingly. You may also need to pit and chop the fresh cherries before adding them to the cookie dough.

How should I store the cherry chip cookies?

Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a hot and humid climate, it’s best to place them in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming too soft. Stored properly, these cookies can last for up to a week.

Can I freeze the cherry chip cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cherry chip cookie dough for later use. After preparing the dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Can I add nuts to the cherry chip cookie recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the cherry chip cookie dough if desired. Simply fold in the nuts along with the cherries and chocolate chips. Nuts can add an extra crunch and flavor to the cookies, but feel free to omit them if you have any allergies or personal preferences.

Final Thoughts

The cherry chip cookie recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with the irresistible taste of chocolate chips. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. The recipe begins with creaming butter and sugar together, then adding in eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract for added flavor. Next, mix in the dry ingredients and fold in the cherries and chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. These cherry chip cookies are a perfect balance of fruity and chocolatey flavors, making them a hit with both kids and adults. So why not give this recipe a try and indulge in the delight of these mouthwatering cookies?