Chocolate Chip Cherry Drops
Chocolate Chip Cherry Drops are sweet, chewy cookies combining rich chocolate chips and tangy maraschino cherries, perfect for sweet tooths and festive occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix sugar, margarine, shortening, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries.
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine and shortening. You can also substitute dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate taste. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute that measures 1:1. Be sure to chop the cherries finely to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of cold milk or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter alongside other treats from your favorite holiday baking recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Cherry Drops contains roughly 62 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit and chop them finely. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may add more moisture to the dough, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour slightly to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help mimic the texture of traditional cookies. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What is the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, make sure your butter and margarine are not too soft when mixing. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can also help maintain the shape. Additionally, ensure that your baking sheet is not too warm when placing the dough on it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).