Classic chocolate chip cookies are delicious and easy to make. If you want a twist on this classic cookie, try these cherry chocolate chip cookies.

The recipe calls for Maraschino cherries, so you might wonder if you can substitute fresh cherries as well. That said if you're inclined to do this, by all means, remove the pits!

Preparing these cookies only takes about 15 minutes, so you can even make them on a whim. The cookies freeze very well, too, so you can always have a sweet treat waiting for you when you need one.

A Maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies. | Photo: YouTube/thefirstyear

INGREDIENTS

3/4 c. chopped maraschino cherries

3/4 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1 tsp. baking soda

A Maraschino cherry chocolate chip cookies. | Photo: YouTube/thefirstyear

2 large eggs

2 c. chocolate chips

1 c. (2 sticks) butter, softened

2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 c. granulated sugar

Person mixing the ingredients. | Photo: YouTube/thefirstyear

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare the baking sheets with parchment paper. Beat butter and sugars for two minutes using a hand mixer. Add the eggs and vanilla. Mix well.

2. Mix together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ones, then fold in the cherries and chocolate chips.

Person mixing the ingredients. | Photo: YouTube/thefirstyear

3. The final step is to use a large cookie scoop to place the cookies onto prepared baking sheets, and bake until they are set, 12 to 15 minutes. The recipe is just as easy as that!

Aside from the Valentine's Day tradition of giving a box of candy, these cookies are the ideal Valentine's Day treat. Meanwhile, giving a romantic gift is all about knowing your partner.

As a married couple, you probably know each other well, but it can be tricky to surprise your spouse with a present. As a new couple, you may not know what kind of present is romantic but not tacky.

Man and woman eating under the kitchen table. | Photo: Pexels

Flowers and chocolate are good options, but an extra-thoughtful gift is much more meaningful. For your nap queen, consider giving her a weighted blanket.

Meanwhile, a cotton robe will give her the feeling that she's floating on clouds, engulfed in light fluffiness. Gifts like jewelry, moisturizer, and perfume are also welcome.

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