Are you ready to bake up a batch of cookies that are as vibrant as they are delicious? Then get ready to dive into the wonderfully sweet and tangy world of maraschino cherry cookies! These aren't your grandma's plain vanilla cookies; we're talking a delightful explosion of flavor that's perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight treats to elegant dessert platters. These easy recipes are ideal for homemade cooking, making them a perfect quick dinner idea or a fun weekend baking project. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (reserve some for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but can be done by hand if you're feeling ambitious!
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them – ovens vary!
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Garnish with a reserved maraschino cherry half for an extra touch of festive flair.
Tips for the Best Maraschino Cherry Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is properly softened – this ensures that it creams well with the sugar, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
Delicious Variations:
- Chocolate Cherry Cookies: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist.
- White Chocolate Cherry Cookies: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a lighter, sweeter variation.
- Almond Cherry Cookies: Add ½ cup of sliced almonds to the dough for a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on size and variations)
These maraschino cherry cookies are a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these simple recipes will quickly become a favorite among your quick dinner ideas and healthy meal options. The vibrant color and burst of flavor will make them a hit with everyone! Enjoy!