Description
These Cherry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, featuring the sweet and tart flavor of maraschino cherries combined with the nutty aroma of almond extract. Soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips, these cookies make a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Add-ins
- 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.
- Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy, which helps create a light texture in the cookies.
- Add Extract and Sugar: Mix in the almond or vanilla extract and powdered sugar until fully combined, blending the flavors thoroughly.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
- Mix in Cherry Juice and Add-ins: Stir in the maraschino cherry juice, chopped maraschino cherries, and semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly into the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, flatten them slightly with your hand or a spatula, and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared cookie sheets to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a light golden color, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes so they firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Using almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor, but vanilla extract is a great alternative if preferred.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better dough texture.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help reduce spreading for thicker cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over cooled cookies.
