Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined, then set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherry juice to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
5. Gradually add in the flour mixture, being careful to mix only until just incorporated.
6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
8. Space the sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

These cookies shine when served fresh out of the oven, warm and fragrant. For a sophisticated touch, consider drizzling a simple icing over the top or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside brownies or blondies. Don’t hesitate to add whipped cream and fresh fruit as a light side!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your cookies in top shape, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to save them for a longer period, feel free to freeze them! Simply place the cooled cookies in an airtight freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying once again.

Helpful cooking tips

• Make sure your butter is adequately softened to cream with the sugar effectively.
• Drain the cherries thoroughly to reduce excess moisture in the dough.
• For a deeper flavor, consider toasting the flour lightly before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can experiment by adding a splash of almond extract for an added depth of flavor. Or, swap out the maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or candied ginger for a different fruity twist. Incorporating a bit of coconut into the dough can also provide a delightful tropical touch!

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies?

Preparation time for these cookies is typically around 20 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes baking time.

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes! You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a chewier texture and deeper flavor. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the cookies’ color.

Are these cookies safe to store at room temperature?

Absolutely! As long as they are kept in an airtight container, these cookies can be safely stored at room temperature for up to 5 days.

These delightful Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies blend childhood nostalgia with the joy of baking, making them a tasty treat to enjoy, share, and celebrate around the table. Enjoy every sweet bite!

Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies

Delightful and soft cookies bursting with sweet maraschino cherry flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 32 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Can substitute with plant-based butter for dairy-free version.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Can be substituted with brown sugar for chewier texture.
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice From the jar.

Fruits and Toppings

• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained well
• Additional granulated sugar for rolling

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined, then set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherry juice to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
5. Gradually add in the flour mixture, being careful to mix only until just incorporated.
6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Baking

1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
2. Space the sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
5. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract.