Cherry Chip Cookie Recipe - My Lifestyle Inspo

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Soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor, this cherry chip cookie recipe delivers the perfect combination of buttery goodness and fruity brightness. These beautiful pink-hued cookies feature tender chopped maraschino cherries and rich chocolate chips baked into every bite.

The contrast between the sweet cherries and semi-sweet chocolate creates a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of chocolate-covered cherries, but in cookie form. The addition of almond extract amplifies the cherry taste and gives these cookies that classic bakery-style appeal.

Making these cookies from scratch is surprisingly simple. The dough comes together in about 15 minutes, and you can have warm cookies fresh from the oven in under 30 minutes total. The secret to achieving that ideal soft and chewy texture lies in properly draining the cherries and using room-temperature butter for the perfect crumb structure.

This recipe yields about 36 cookies, making it ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need a sweet treat that stands out from ordinary chocolate chip cookies. The vibrant pink color and unique flavor combination make these cookies a conversation starter at any event.

If you love combining fruit flavors with chocolate in your baking, this chocolate chip bread recipe offers another delicious way to enjoy that pairing.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chip Cookie Recipe

These cookies offer a refreshing twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies without requiring any special techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The maraschino cherries add natural sweetness and moisture, which keeps the cookies soft for days after baking.

The flavor is perfectly balanced. The cherries provide sweetness with a hint of tartness, while the chocolate chips add richness without overpowering the fruit. A touch of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor and creates a more complex taste profile that elevates these beyond ordinary cookies.

Here’s what makes these cookies special:

Soft and chewy texture with slightly crisp edges
Beautiful pink color from the cherries and optional food coloring
Perfect balance of sweet cherries and rich chocolate
Stays fresh and soft for several days when stored properly
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry
Great for holidays, parties, and gift-giving
No chilling required for the dough

These cookies also freeze beautifully, so you can make a double batch and save some for later. Another fruity treat worth trying is this snickerdoodle banana bread recipe.

Ingredients

The ingredient list for cherry chip cookies is straightforward, featuring pantry staples combined with maraschino cherries for that signature flavor. Using quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in the final result, especially when it comes to the butter and vanilla extract.

For the cookies:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon almond extract
2 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (150g) maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and finely chopped
1 1/2 cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
2-3 drops pink gel food coloring (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes the cookie-making process smoother and helps ensure consistent results. Most of these items are standard kitchen equipment that you likely already own, but investing in quality baking sheets and measuring tools will improve your baking outcomes across all recipes.

Essential equipment:

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Large mixing bowls
Medium mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cookie scoop (2-tablespoon size recommended)
Baking sheets
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Wire cooling rack
Rubber spatula
Paper towels for draining cherries

For those who enjoy making various cookie recipes, you might also enjoy these chewy chocolate chip cookies.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These carefully selected products will help you achieve the best results with your cherry chip cookies, from premium ingredients to essential baking tools.

1. Luxardo Gourmet Maraschino Cherries

While standard maraschino cherries work well, Luxardo cherries elevate these cookies to gourmet status. These Italian cherries have a richer, more complex flavor without artificial coloring, and their superior quality shines through in every bite. The natural cherry taste is more pronounced, and they hold their shape better during baking.

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2. Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet

This professional-grade baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies every time. The reinforced rim prevents warping, and the natural aluminum won’t discolor or rust. Your cookies will bake evenly with consistent browning, and the generous size allows you to bake more cookies per batch.

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3. OXO Good Grips Medium Cookie Scoop

A quality cookie scoop creates uniform cookies that bake evenly and look professional. This scoop has a comfortable non-slip handle and a spring-loaded mechanism that releases dough easily. Consistent sizing means all your cookies finish baking at the same time, eliminating the guesswork.

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4. Ghirardelli Premium Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

These premium chocolate chips contain a higher percentage of cocoa, which creates a richer chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries. They maintain their shape during baking while still achieving that melty, gooey texture. The quality difference is noticeable in both taste and texture.

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You can find more baking inspiration in this best chocolate chip cookies recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect cherry chip cookies every time. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure proper texture and flavor development.

1. Prepare the Cherries and Preheat

Drain the maraschino cherries in a fine-mesh strainer, pressing gently to remove excess liquid
Spread the drained cherries on several layers of paper towels
Pat them thoroughly with additional paper towels to absorb as much moisture as possible
Finely chop the cherries into small pieces, about 1/4-inch in size
Place the chopped cherries on fresh paper towels and set aside to continue draining
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using a hand mixer, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar
Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color
Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure even mixing
The mixture should look noticeably lighter in color and have increased in volume

3. Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated
Add the vanilla extract and almond extract to the bowl
Beat on medium speed for another 30-60 seconds until the mixture is smooth and well combined
If using pink gel food coloring, add 2-3 drops at this stage and mix until the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt
Whisk thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed
This step prevents pockets of baking soda or powder from creating uneven rise in your cookies

5. Mix Dough

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three separate additions
Mix after each addition just until you can no longer see dry flour streaks
Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated to avoid developing too much gluten, which would make the cookies tough
The dough should be thick and slightly sticky

6. Fold in Cherries and Chocolate

Remove the bowl from the mixer
Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the chopped cherries into the dough
Add the chocolate chips and fold until both are evenly distributed throughout the dough
Avoid overmixing at this stage to prevent breaking apart the cherries and to maintain the proper cookie texture

7. Shape and Arrange Cookies

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or spoon, portion out rounds of dough
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2-3 inches (5-7.5cm) apart to allow for spreading
For a more uniform appearance, you can lightly press down on each dough ball to flatten it slightly
If desired, press a few extra chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies for a bakery-style appearance

8. Bake the Cookies

Place one baking sheet in the preheated oven
Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers still look slightly underbaked
The cookies will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after removal from the oven
For chewier cookies, bake for 11 minutes; for slightly crispier edges, bake for 13 minutes
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking time for even browning

9. Cool and Finish

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes
This resting period allows the cookies to set properly without breaking apart when moved
After 5 minutes, use a thin spatula to carefully transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing, about 20-30 minutes
Repeat the baking process with remaining dough, ensuring the baking sheet has cooled before adding new dough balls

Similar techniques work beautifully in this old fashioned chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Tips for Success

These professional tips will help you achieve bakery-quality cherry chip cookies every time you bake.

Key techniques for perfect cookies:

Always drain and dry cherries thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cookies cakey instead of chewy
Use room-temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture; it should be soft enough to leave a fingerprint but not greasy or melted
Don’t skip the step of chopping cherries finely; large pieces can create pockets of moisture that affect texture
Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag
Avoid overbaking; cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when you remove them from the oven
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for the full 5 minutes before transferring to prevent breaking
For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop rather than spoons for portioning dough
Store cookies in an airtight container with a piece of bread to maintain softness
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it seems too soft or sticky to work with
Space cookies adequately on the baking sheet to prevent them from merging together as they spread

Read Also: Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

Serving Suggestions

These cherry chip cookies are versatile and pair wonderfully with various beverages and accompaniments. The sweet cherry and chocolate combination makes them perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.

Delicious ways to enjoy cherry chip cookies:

Serve warm with a cold glass of whole milk for the classic cookie experience
Pair with hot coffee or espresso for an afternoon treat
Include in a cookie assortment platter with easy sugar cookies and single serving sugar cookies
Sandwich two cookies together with vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting for cookie sandwiches
Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a cherry chip sundae
Pack in decorative tins or boxes for homemade gifts during holidays
Serve alongside classic tiramisu for an elegant dessert spread
Include in holiday cookie exchanges
Dunk in hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat
Pair with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a simple dessert

These cookies also complement breakfast pastries like classic French toast.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic cherry chip cookie recipe, these creative variations will help you customize the cookies to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Creative adaptations:

Double Cherry: Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter, more cherry-forward flavor
Nutty Cherry Chip: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or sliced almonds along with the chocolate chips for added crunch and nutty flavor
Dark Chocolate Cherry: Substitute dark chocolate chips or chunks for a more sophisticated, less sweet option
Cherry Almond: Increase almond extract to 1/4 teaspoon and decrease vanilla to 1 teaspoon for a stronger almond flavor
Cherry Coconut Chip: Add 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for tropical flair
Dried Cherry Version: Use finely chopped dried cherries instead of maraschino for a less sweet, more intense cherry flavor
Triple Chocolate Cherry: Mix semi-sweet, dark, and white chocolate chips for varied chocolate flavors
Cherry Chip Shortbread: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup total and flour to 2 1/2 cups for a denser, crumblier shortbread-style cookie
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend
Vegan Cherry Chip: Use vegan butter and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, let sit 10 minutes)

For another fruity cookie option, try this almond macaroon cookie recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage ensures your cherry chip cookies maintain their optimal texture and flavor for as long as possible.

Storage guidelines:

Room Temperature: Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days; place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain softness
Refrigerator: Cookies can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months; place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking
Cookie Dough: Freeze shaped dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months; bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time
Reheating: Warm cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes or microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds to restore that fresh-baked texture
Avoid storing cookies with strong-smelling foods as they can absorb odors
Keep cookies away from direct sunlight and heat sources
If cookies become soft, crisp them up by baking at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 minutes

You might also enjoy these date filled cookies that store just as well.

Nutritional Facts

Per cookie (based on 36 cookies):

Calories: 142
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 23mg
Sodium: 85mg
Total Carbohydrates: 19g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 11g
Protein: 2g
Vitamin A: 4% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 4% DV

Nutritional notes: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions used. The cherries add natural fruit sugars while the chocolate chips contribute antioxidants. For a lower-sugar option, reduce the granulated sugar to 1/2 cup and use dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa.

Another balanced sweet treat option is this easy tiramisu recipe.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While cherry chip cookies are an indulgent treat, several ingredients provide nutritional benefits beyond just great taste.

Cherries: Maraschino cherries retain some of the antioxidants found in fresh cherries, including anthocyanins which may support heart health and reduce inflammation. While the processing reduces some nutritional value, they still contain trace amounts of vitamins C and A.

Dark Chocolate Chips: If using dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips with higher cocoa content, you benefit from flavonoids that support cardiovascular health, improve blood flow, and provide antioxidant protection. Dark chocolate also contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc.

Almond Extract: Derived from almonds, this extract carries trace amounts of beneficial compounds including vitamin E and healthy fats, though the quantity in this recipe is minimal.

Eggs: Provide high-quality protein, B vitamins, choline for brain health, and vitamin D. The yolks also contain lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health.

Butter: Contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), vitamin A for vision and immune function, and vitamin K2 for bone health. Using grass-fed butter increases omega-3 fatty acids and beta-carotene content.

For more baked goods with wholesome ingredients, check out this best carrot cake recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries work but require different preparation. You’ll need to pit and finely chop them, then toss with 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Drain thoroughly and pat dry before using. Fresh cherries create a less sweet, more tart cookie with a different texture.

2. Why do my cherry chip cookies spread too much during baking?

Excessive spreading usually results from butter that’s too soft or melted, insufficient flour, or a too-hot oven. Make sure your butter is at proper room temperature (should hold its shape when pressed). Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping. You can also chill the shaped dough balls for 15-30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.

3. How do I prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom of the cookies?

Thoroughly drying the cherries is crucial to prevent sinking. After draining and chopping, pat them completely dry with paper towels. Tossing the chopped cherries with 1-2 tablespoons of the measured flour before adding them to the dough also helps keep them suspended. Don’t overmix the dough once you add the cherries, as this can break them down and release moisture.

4. Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

Yes, you can omit the almond extract entirely or substitute with an equal amount of vanilla extract. The almond extract enhances the cherry flavor, but it’s not essential. For a different flavor profile, you could try cherry extract if available, though the cookies will still taste delicious with just vanilla.

5. What’s the best way to soften butter quickly for this recipe?

Cut cold butter into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. For faster softening, place the cubed butter between two sheets of parchment paper and gently roll with a rolling pin to flatten it. Alternatively, microwave butter in 5-second intervals on 30% power, checking frequently. The butter should be soft enough to leave a fingerprint but not greasy or starting to melt.

If you enjoyed these cookies, you’ll also love this sicilian fig cookies recipe.

Final Thoughts

This cherry chip cookie recipe brings together the timeless appeal of chocolate chip cookies with the sweet, fruity brightness of cherries. The result is a cookie that’s familiar yet special, perfect for everyday enjoyment or festive occasions.

The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor. Kids love the pretty pink color and sweet taste, while adults appreciate the sophisticated cherry-almond notes and the nostalgic flavor combination. They’re equally at home on a holiday cookie platter or in a lunchbox.

Give this cherry chip cookie recipe a try this weekend. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experience or any creative variations you tried!

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