Some cookies are meant to be crisp. Some are meant to be crunchy. And then there are cookies like Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookies — soft, chewy, tender, and bursting with nostalgic sweetness in every bite. These cookies don’t just sit on a dessert table; they shine. Their delicate pink hue, glossy cherry-studded tops, and buttery aroma instantly signal celebration.

This recipe was created with joy in mind. It’s playful but elegant, simple yet memorable. The maraschino cherries bring a classic flavor that feels retro and comforting, while the sugar cookie base keeps things familiar and universally loved. These cookies are perfect for holidays, birthdays, baby showers, Valentine’s Day, and especially parties where desserts need to be eye-catching and irresistible.

What makes these cookies truly special is their texture. They are soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and infused with cherry flavor without being overpowering. Each bite melts gently in your mouth, leaving behind buttery sweetness and a hint of almond-like cherry depth.

Why Maraschino Cherries Work So Well in Cookies

Maraschino cherries aren’t just for cocktails and sundaes. When chopped and folded into cookie dough, they release pockets of sweetness and moisture that keep cookies tender for days. Their vibrant color also gives these cookies a naturally festive look — no artificial dyes required.

The key is balance: draining and drying the cherries properly ensures the dough stays structured while still delivering bold flavor.

The Perfect Party Cookie

These cookies were designed to:

Look beautiful on dessert tables
Travel well for potlucks
Stay soft for days
Appeal to kids and adults alike

They’re easy to make in large batches, freeze beautifully, and can be decorated simply or dressed up with glaze, sprinkles, or extra cherries.

Ingredients

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional but recommended)
¾ cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped and well drained
2 tbsp maraschino cherry juice
Extra sugar for rolling

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cherry juice.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Fold in chopped maraschino cherries gently.
Scoop dough into balls and roll lightly in sugar.
Place on baking sheets 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set and centers remain soft.
Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack.

Texture, Flavor & Color Explained

These cookies achieve their signature softness thanks to:

Proper butter creaming
Balanced leavening
Moisture from cherry juice

The almond extract enhances the cherry flavor subtly, creating a bakery-style depth without overpowering sweetness.

Perfect Occasions for These Cookies

Valentine’s Day dessert trays
Holiday cookie exchanges
Birthday parties
Baby showers
Afternoon tea gatherings

Their cheerful color and gentle sweetness make them universally appealing.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
Freeze dough balls and bake fresh as needed