Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)

Optional Add-Ins:

White chocolate chips (for extra sweetness)

Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts for crunch)

Sprinkles (to amp up the festive vibe)

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and finely chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula. The cherries should be well-distributed throughout the dough but not overmixed to prevent them from breaking apart.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a more uniform look, roll the dough into balls before placing them on the sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or package them up as gifts!