Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about cookies that combine sweet and tangy flavors. These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a perfect example of that joy, bringing a burst of cherry goodness to every bite. Ideal for any occasion, they carry a nostalgic charm reminiscent of childhood treats, making them a hit with all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries gently into the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure to chop the maraschino cherries finely to ensure even distribution in the dough.
- For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts to the mixture.
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
- These cookies freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for later!
Cooking Techniques
Mixing the right ingredients is crucial to achieving the perfect cookie texture. Creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy creates a lovely base that ensures a tender cookie. The gentle folding of the cherries is key to preventing them from breaking apart and maintaining their flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries? Frozen cherries will work, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- How should I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Can I substitute the almond extract? Yes, you can use additional vanilla extract or leave it out entirely if you prefer.
- What if I don’t have unsalted butter? You can use salted butter; just reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.
Conclusion
These Maraschino Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that brings smiles and sweet memories to the table. Perfect for gatherings, or simply when you need a little indulgence, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the cherry goodness!