If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s bursting with flavor and just a little bit special, this Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe will quickly become your go-to sweet treat. Imagine tender, buttery cookies infused with a hint of almond extract, juicy maraschino cherries, and pockets of melty semi-sweet chocolate chips—each bite a perfect balance of fruity brightness and rich indulgence. These cookies are not only delicious but also a fun twist on a classic chocolate chip cookie that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with your favorite cup of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, enhancing the texture, flavor, and delightful color you’ll notice in every cookie you bake.
- 1 cup butter, softened: Adds rich creaminess and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant depth that complements the cherries and chocolate beautifully.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens evenly and lends a delicate tenderness to the dough.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure, ensuring the cookies hold their shape without being tough.
- 3 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice: Adds subtle cherry flavor and moisture for softness.
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries: Brings bursts of juicy sweetness and a fun chewy texture.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Offers classic, melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
How to Make Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining cookie sheets with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy. This creates the perfect base that will blend beautifully with the rest of your ingredients.
Step 3: Add Extract and Sugar
Mix in your choice of almond or vanilla extract along with the powdered sugar. The almond extract is the secret to that distinctive, slightly nutty note that makes these cookies unforgettable.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the bowl, stirring as you go. This helps you build a soft yet sturdy dough that forms the foundation for your cookies without getting dry or crumbly.
Step 5: Mix in Cherry Juice, Chopped Cherries, and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the maraschino cherry juice, followed by the chopped cherries and chocolate chips. These ingredients bring bursts of color, moisture, and rich flavor that truly set this recipe apart.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then gently flatten them just a bit and arrange them evenly on the prepared cookie sheets. This step ensures even baking and that perfect cookie shape.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges turn a lovely light golden brown. This timing is key to getting that tender center with slightly crisp edges.
Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes; this helps them set without breaking. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and get ready to enjoy the best Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe you’ve ever tasted.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are stunning on their own, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate their presentation and add an extra touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies with a cold glass of milk, a soothing cup of tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that balances the fruity and chocolate flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these cookies on a decorative plate tied with a simple ribbon for gift-giving or include them in a cookie platter with assorted nuts and dried fruits to impress guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy your Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe anytime without losing that delightful texture.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the shaped dough balls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time for fresh-baked goodness whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
Warm leftover cookies slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive their softness, or pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This simple step reminds you why this Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is so addictive.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla extract?
Absolutely! While almond extract gives a distinct nutty note, vanilla extract works perfectly if you prefer a more classic flavor or have allergies. The cookies will still be delicious.
Are maraschino cherries necessary for this recipe?
They provide that special sweet and slightly tangy flavor unique to this recipe, but if maraschino cherries aren’t available, you can try dried cherries soaked in cherry juice as a substitute.
Can I use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Dark chocolate will add a richer bitterness, while milk chocolate can make the cookies sweeter and creamier, depending on your taste preference.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing the dough, and chill the dough balls briefly before baking if your kitchen is warm. This helps keep the cookie shape intact.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients accordingly, and watch out when baking to space cookies sufficiently across baking sheets for even heat distribution.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about baking and sharing these Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe with those you care about. The blend of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable cookie experience that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret filling your kitchen with the sweet smell of cherries, chocolate, and almond goodness!
Print
Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies, a perfect blend of sweet maraschino cherries, rich chocolate chips, and a hint of almond extract. Soft and buttery with a slight tang from cherry juice, these cookies bake to golden perfection, offering a chewy, flavorful treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it becomes smooth and creamy, creating a light base for the cookie dough.
- Add Flavor and Sweetness: Mix in the almond or vanilla extract and powdered sugar until everything is fully combined and the mixture is fluffy.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms that holds together well.
- Add Cherries and Chocolate: Fold in the maraschino cherry juice, chopped cherries, and semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, flatten them slightly for even baking, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly baked.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger almond flavor, use almond extract instead of vanilla.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending.
- Use parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking and to promote even baking.
- Do not overbake; cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
