There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Chocolate Cherry Cookies wafting through your kitchen, each bite promising a delightful dance of rich chocolate and tart cherries. These cookies are not just treats; they are edible hugs that evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and sweet celebrations. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
Imagine biting into a warm cookie, the gooey chocolate melting in your mouth while the cherries burst with flavor. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a festive holiday, these cookies bring smiles and joy to every occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for baking novices and pros alike
- Their rich chocolate flavor balanced with tart cherries creates an irresistible treat
- Visually stunning with beautiful red specks throughout, they’re sure to impress anyone
- Great for sharing at parties or enjoying solo with a glass of milk
I remember the first time I made these cookies; my friends devoured them so quickly, I barely got one for myself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of any good cookie; sift well for best results.
- Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor.
- Baking Soda: This gives your cookies the lift they need to be chewy but not cake-like.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the cookie’s saltiness.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; light or dark works well.
- Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and that classic crunchy texture on the outside.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to your cookies.
- Dried Cherries: Opt for plump ones; soak them in water if you want them extra juicy!
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips create pockets of melted goodness in every bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup – because who likes washing dishes?
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. This is where the magic begins; think of this as your dry superhero team.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like clouds inviting you in!
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The batter should smell heavenly by now; resist diving in headfirst!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; we want those little air pockets for chewiness.
Add Chocolate Chips and Cherries : Gently fold in dried cherries and chocolate chips using a spatula. The color contrast will make you feel like an artist creating a masterpiece.
Scoop onto Baking Sheets : Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Trust me; they spread out like sunbathers on summer vacation!
Bake to Perfection : Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers are still soft. Let them cool on pans for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Now sit back with a glass of milk or coffee while enjoying those warm Chocolate Cherry Cookies fresh from the oven!
You Must Know
- These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries
- The balance makes them irresistible, and they’re great for any occasion
- Just the right amount of chewiness ensures that each bite is satisfying, making them a hit among friends and family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you mix the dough. Chill the mixture for 30 minutes before scooping it onto baking sheets for even baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for raisins or nuts if you prefer. Adding a pinch of sea salt on top enhances flavor, creating a delightful contrast.
Storing & Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing; cold butter can lead to dense cookies
- Use high-quality chocolate for richer flavor; it makes all the difference!
- Don’t overbake; cookies should look slightly underdone when you take them out
Baking these cookies always brings me back to family gatherings where everyone would fight over the last one—priceless moments filled with laughter and crumbs everywhere!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries in this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
Can I freeze these Chocolate Cherry Cookies?
Absolutely! They freeze well; store them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries with these irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Each bite offers a chewy texture and bursts of flavor, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying a warm cookie with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy to everyone around.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup dried cherries (soaked in water for extra juiciness)
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just blended.
- Fold in the dried cherries and chocolate chips gently.
- Scoop rounded balls onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft; let cool on pans for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (34g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg