If you are looking for a simple and delicious cookie recipe that is perfect for any occasion, try cherry cookies. These soft and chewy cookies are loaded with maraschino cherries, coconut, and pecans and have a lovely pink color that makes them stand out from the crowd. Whether you need a dessert for Valentine’s Day, a baby shower, or a holiday party, cherry cookies are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and appearance.
What are cherry cookies?
Cherry cookies are drop cookies that are made with essential ingredients such as butter, sugar, flour, and eggs, plus some extras that give them their unique taste and texture. The main ingredient is maraschino cherries, which are sweetened and preserved cherries that are often used as a garnish for cocktails and desserts. Maraschino cherries add a burst of cherry flavor and a touch of almond extract to the cookie dough, as well as a beautiful pink hue. Some recipes also use maraschino cherry juice to enhance the color and flavor of the cookies.
Another critical ingredient is shredded coconut, which adds a tropical twist and a chewy texture to the cookies. Coconut also helps to balance the sweetness of the cherries and adds some moisture to the dough. You can use sweetened or unsweetened coconut, depending on your preference. Finally, chopped pecans add some crunch and nuttiness to the cookies, as well as some healthy fats and protein. You can substitute other nuts, such as almonds or walnuts if you like.
How to make cherry cookies?
Making cherry cookies is very easy and does not require any special equipment or skills. Here are the basic steps to follow:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease or line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract and beat well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries, coconut, and pecans. You can also add some chocolate chips if you want some extra sweetness and richness.
- Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake them, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheets.
- Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your cherry cookies as they are, or drizzle some cherry glaze on top for a more decadent treat.
How to make cherry glaze?
Cherry glaze is a simple icing that is made with just two ingredients: powdered sugar and maraschino cherry juice. It adds some extra sweetness and shine to the cookies, as well as a deeper pink color. To make cherry glaze, follow these steps:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maraschino cherry juice until smooth and thick. You can adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or liquid as needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or a piping bag. You can also dip the tops of the cookies into the ice if you prefer.
- Let the glaze set before serving or storing the cookies.
How to store cherry cookies?
Cherry cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 6 months, either with or without the glaze. To freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw them, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour or microwave them for a few seconds.
Why should you try cherry cookies?
Cherry cookies are an excellent choice for anyone who loves cherries, coconut, and pecans. They are soft, chewy, and full of flavor, and they have a festive look that makes them ideal for special occasions. They are also easy to make and use common ingredients that you already have in your pantry. Plus, they are versatile and can be customized with different nuts, chocolate chips, or other add-ins. Cherry cookies are a sweet and satisfying treat that you and your family will love.
Where to find more cherry cookie recipes?
If you are interested in trying more cherry cookie recipes, you can use the search_web tool to find some online. Here are some examples of cherry cookie recipes that you can find on the web:
- Sugar Cookie Cherry Cobbler: This is a dessert that combines juicy cherry pie filling with crumbled sugar cookie dough. It is baked until golden and bubbly and served with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Chewy Cookies: These are cookies that are made with brown sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and chocolate chips. They are soft and chewy and stay that way for a long time.
- Barbie-Inspired Recipes: These are recipes that are inspired by the famous doll and her pink color. They include cocktails, desserts, and snacks that are made with pink ingredients, such as pitaya, cranberry, strawberry, and raspberry.
- Best Maraschino Cherry Cookies Recipe: This is the recipe that is closest to the one described in this article. It uses butter, brown sugar, egg, milk, vanilla, flour, salt, baking soda, maraschino cherries, coconut, and pecans to make soft and delicious cherry cookies.
- Cherry Cookies Recipe: This is another recipe that is similar to the one described in this article. It uses butter, brown sugar, egg, milk, vanilla, flour, salt, baking soda, maraschino cherries, coconut, and pecans to make chewy and festive cherry cookies.
- Cherry Cookies Recipe: This is a simple recipe that uses butter, sugar, vanilla, salt, flour, and maraschino cherries to make easy and tasty cherry cookies. It does not use coconut or pecans, but you can add them if you like.
Question About cherry cookies
1. What is Snoop Dogg cookies?
“Snoop Dogg cookies” could refer to a strain of marijuana named after the rapper Snoop Dogg. It’s a type of cannabis, not an actual edible cookie.
2. Are maraschino cherries fruit?
Yes, maraschino cherries are a type of cherry that has been sweetened, colored, and flavored. While they are derived from real cherries, the processing alters their appearance and taste.
3. Can you freeze maraschino cherries?
Technically, you can freeze maraschino cherries, but the texture may change upon thawing. The high sugar content might help preserve them, but it’s not a common practice.
4. Do maraschino cherries stay in your stomach for 7 years?
No, this is a myth. Food, including maraschino cherries, does not stay in your stomach for years. Digestion processes food and moves it through the digestive system relatively quickly.
5. Is there formaldehyde in maraschino cherries?
Originally, maraschino cherries were preserved using formaldehyde, but modern methods use alternatives like benzoate. The amount is considered safe for consumption.
6. Is it OK to eat a lot of maraschino cherries?
In moderation, maraschino cherries are generally safe to eat. However, they are high in sugar, so that excessive consumption may contribute to health issues like diabetes or weight gain.
7. Do refrigerated maraschino cherries go bad?
While maraschino cherries have a long shelf life, they can go wrong. Check for signs like off smells or mold. Proper storage in the refrigerator can extend their freshness.
8. Is it better to freeze cherries with pits or without?
It’s generally better to pit cherries before freezing. Pitted cherries are more versatile for use in recipes, and freezing without pits saves space.
9. Can you freeze fresh cherries without pits?
Yes, you can freeze fresh, pitted cherries. Spread them on a tray to freeze them individually before transferring them to a container to prevent them from sticking together.
10. What happens if you don’t refrigerate maraschino cherries?
They may spoil more quickly if not refrigerated, and the quality may deteriorate. Refrigeration helps preserve their color, flavor, and texture.
11. Do Luxardo maraschino cherries go bad?
While Luxardo cherries have a longer shelf life due to their preservation method, they can still go wrong. Check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
12. What happens to the pit in a maraschino cherry?
The pit is removed during processing, and the cherry is then typically infused with a sugar syrup, giving it a characteristic sweet taste and bright color.
13. How long do cherries last in the fridge?
Fresh cherries can last around one to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly.
14. Can dogs eat cherries?
No, dogs should not eat cherries, as the pits contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. The flesh, while not harmful, can still cause stomach upset.
15. Do cherries last longer in the fridge or on the counter?
Cherries last longer when refrigerated. The cool temperature slows down the ripening process and helps prevent mold growth.
16. Do cherries last longer in mason jars?
Storing cherries in mason jars can help prolong their freshness, especially if they are correctly sealed. However, refrigeration remains essential.
17. Can I store cherries in a Ziploc bag?
Yes, you can store cherries in a Ziploc bag in the refrigerator. Ensure they are dry, and place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.
18. What is the best container for cherries?
A breathable container, like a produce storage container with ventilation, is suitable for cherries. Alternatively, use a perforated plastic bag.
19. Should you wash cherries in vinegar?
Rinsing cherries in a vinegar and water solution can help remove pesticides and bacteria. Rinse thoroughly and air dry before storing.
20. Is it better to wash fruit with baking soda or vinegar?
Both baking soda and vinegar can be used to clean fruit. Baking soda is effective for removing surface pesticides, while vinegar can help kill bacteria.
21. How do you get rid of worms in cherries?
Scrutinize cherries before eating. Washing them thoroughly and soaking them in a vinegar solution may help remove any pests.
22. Can I freeze cherries?
Yes, you can freeze cherries. Pitting them before freezing is recommended for better storage and versatility in use.
23. Is it OK to eat cherries every day?
Eating cherries in moderation is generally healthy. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. However, excessive consumption may lead to issues due to their sugar content.
24. How do you pit cherries without a pitter?
You can use a paperclip, a chopstick, or a small bottle with a narrow neck to pit cherries without a dedicated cherry pitter.
25. What can I do with cherries that are going bad?
Consider making jams, preserves, or sauces with overripe cherries. Cooking them down can help salvage their sweetness and flavor.