Indulging in a warm batch of Chocolate Cherry Cookies is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly winter evening. Picture this: the rich aroma of melted chocolate wafts through your kitchen, mingling with the fruity sweetness of cherries, creating an olfactory experience that promises pure bliss. quick dessert alternative sweet and tangy dessert option As you bite into these decadent cookies, you’ll savor the gooey chocolate and juicy cherry combination, each mouthful bursting with flavor and delight. For more inspiration, check out this decadent peanut butter brownies recipe.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made these cookies for my family during the holidays. The kitchen was filled with laughter, delightful chaos, and that irresistible smell that had everyone wandering in like moths to a flame. cozy morning treat My cousin even tried to sneak one before they were fully cooled—who can blame him? These cookies are perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply when you need a pick-me-up after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are incredibly easy to make, feeling like a hug in cookie form
- The flavor profile is an exquisite blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries
- Visually appealing with their glossy chocolate chips and vibrant cherry bits, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious
- Versatile enough for any occasion or just because you deserve a treat!
Every time I bake these cookies, my friends rave about how amazing they taste and how they disappear faster than I can count.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa for rich chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth; dark brown sugar enhances the caramel notes.
- Baking Soda: Helps cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt: Balances sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugars.
- Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together for chewy goodness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances all flavors; always opt for pure if possible.
- Dried Cherries: Look for plump ones; they’ll add a lovely tangy burst in every bite.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chips work great; go wild with your favorite variety!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes should do it. Enjoy the fluffy texture!
Add Egg and Vanilla Extract: Beat in one large egg along with vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should look creamy and inviting.
Combine Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture : Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix! You want it perfectly blended but still thick.
Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips : Fold in dried cherries and chocolate chips delicately. The dough should be studded with those luscious treats that will melt beautifully while baking.
Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets : Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart. These little mounds will spread out nicely while baking.
Bake Until Set : Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges appear firm but centers remain soft—they’ll continue to firm up outside the oven! Allow cooling on the sheet before transferring them to wire racks.
And there you have it! A delightful batch of Chocolate Cherry Cookies ready to satisfy any sweet tooth craving while making you feel like a gourmet baker!
You Must Know
- These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries, creating an irresistible treat
- The aroma while baking will make your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery, tempting everyone in the house
- Perfect for sharing but too delicious not to keep some for yourself!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then mix dry ingredients first. Cream butter and sugar separately for fluffiness before combining. This order ensures even baking and a perfect cookie texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips with white chocolate or add nuts for crunch. If you love spice, a hint of cinnamon can take these cookies to the next level!
Storing & Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about five minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking; it helps prevent spreading
- Use high-quality chocolate for richer flavor, and don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle on top – it elevates everything!
Baking these Chocolate Cherry Cookies always reminds me of my childhood kitchen adventures. My little brother once tried to sneak a bite before they cooled, and let’s just say we both learned that patience is key! For more inspiration, check out this banana bread cookies recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain excess moisture first.
How do I prevent my cookies from being too soft?
Make sure to measure flour accurately and chill the dough before baking.
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of Chocolate Cherry Cookies, where rich chocolate meets tart cherries in a delightful treat. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, these cookies are easy to make and promise to become a family favorite. With every bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that will bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 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 flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in dried cherries and chocolate chips gently.
- Scoop dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm; allow cooling on the sheet before transferring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (35g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading. Substitute dark chocolate chips with white chocolate or add nuts for extra crunch.