Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies
Soft, buttery cookies with a sweet cherry twist.
Introduction
These Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies are a playful spin on the classic sugar cookie. Soft, chewy, and lightly flavored with almond and vanilla, they’re studded with chopped maraschino cherries and kissed with cherry juice for a subtle pink hue. Perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any time you want a cheerful cookie, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to brighten up your dessert table.
Ingredients
2 ¾ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract
¼ cup maraschino cherry juice
½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped and drained
Optional: extra sugar for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cherry juice until smooth.
Step 5: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until dough forms.
Fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Roll dough into 1‑inch balls.
Optionally roll in sugar for a crunchy finish.
Place on baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: ~160 per cookie
Tips for Success
Chop cherries finely and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking to help cookies hold their shape.
Use dark baking sheets for slightly crispier edges, or light sheets for softer cookies.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Fun Variations
Festive Touch: Add red or pink sprinkles before baking.
Chocolate Cherry: Fold in mini chocolate chips with the cherries.
Glazed Finish: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Holiday Version: Use green sprinkles alongside cherries for a Christmas cookie.
Serving Ideas
Pair with hot cocoa or cherry‑vanilla tea.
Serve on a Valentine’s dessert platter with chocolate‑dipped strawberries.
Gift in cookie tins lined with parchment for a cheerful homemade present.
Storytelling Element
Imagine opening the oven to find trays of soft, pink‑tinged cookies, the aroma of butter, almond, and cherries filling the kitchen. Each bite is tender, sweet, and nostalgic — a cookie that feels both whimsical and comforting.
Conclusion
These Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies are a fun, flavorful twist on a classic. With their soft texture, cherry bursts, and pretty presentation, they’re perfect for celebrations or everyday baking.