Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars:
In a large bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined.
Stir in the maraschino cherry juice and mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the cherries and chocolate chips:
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, and optional nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
6. Shape the cookies:
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
7. Bake:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Serve:
Once cooled, enjoy your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
