Maraschino Cherry

 

Ingredients:

-1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

-1/2 cup powdered sugar

-1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract

-2 cups all-purpose flour

-1/2 teaspoon salt

-3/4 cup maraschino cherries-chopped (spread cherries on paper towelto drain well or you can use dried maraschino cherries)

-2/3 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

-Mix flour and salt, set aside.

-Cream 1 cup unsalted softened butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar, mix in vanilla.

-Add flour and salt mixture and mix until it starts forming larger clumps.

-Mix in chocolate chips and maraschino cherries.

-Form the dough into the log and press it well or it will crumble when you slice the cookies (the log should be about 2 inch thick) Wrap it in the plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hour.

-Preheat the oven to 325°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.

-Cut the log into 1/4 or 1/3 inch thick slices (if the slices crumbles, press it back together with your hands) and place them onto baking sheet with one inch of space between.

-Bake the cookies 10– 15 minutes (until they just start to turn lightly golden brown on top)

-Let them cool for 5 minutes on a baking sheet before transfer them to a rack to cool completely.

Tips on using maraschino cherries in your culinary endeavors, here are a few ideas:

1. Cocktail garnish: Maraschino cherries are a classic garnish for cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or Shirley Temple. They add a pop of color and a sweet touch to the drink. You can also use the cherry syrup to enhance the flavor of the cocktail.

 

2. Dessert toppings: Maraschino cherries can be used as a topping for ice cream sundaes, cakes, pies, or even pancakes and waffles. They provide a vibrant appearance and a burst of sweetness. Drizzle some of the syrup over the dessert for added flavor.

 

3. Baking ingredient: Chop up maraschino cherries and incorporate them into baked goods like cookies, brownies, or cakes. They can add a delightful burst of flavor and moisture to your treats. Just make sure to drain and pat dry the cherries before adding them to the batter to prevent excessive moisture.

 

4. Fruit salads: Include maraschino cherries in fruit salads for an extra touch of sweetness. They pair well with a variety of fruits like pineapple, oranges, grapes, and bananas.

 

5. Sauces and glazes: The syrup from maraschino cherries can be used as a base for sauces and glazes. Mix it with other ingredients like balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, or spices to create a unique flavor profile for meats or desserts.

 

6. Cheese platters: Pair maraschino cherries with different types of cheese on a platter. The combination of sweet cherries and savory cheese can create a delightful contrast of flavors.