Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. If you’re looking for a cookie that satisfies your sweet tooth while still being packed with nutrition, this recipe is for you. The combination of dark chocolate and tart cherries adds a gourmet twist to classic oatmeal cookies, making them both indulgent and healthy. With their chewy texture and decadent taste, these cookies are not just a dessert but a snack you can feel good about enjoying at any time of the day. healthy sweet potato cookies chocolate crinkle cookie recipe Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cookie recipe is quick to whip up and sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy these delicious cookies throughout the week. Get ready to bake up a batch that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
For more inspiration, check out this oatmeal breakfast cookies recipe.
- Nutritious Ingredients: These cookies are made with oats, which provide fiber and essential nutrients, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional cookies.
- Decadent Flavor: The pairing of dark chocolate and cherries creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy any sweet craving.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something homemade.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Old-Fashioned Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture; they provide chewiness and help bind the cookies together.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips to ensure rich flavor; semi-sweet can also be used if preferred.
- Dried Cherries: Choose unsweetened dried cherries for a natural tartness that complements the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Brown Sugar: Provides moisture and depth of flavor; light brown sugar works best but dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy mixing; it helps create a tender cookie.
- Eggs: One large egg binds the ingredients together while adding richness to the dough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and egg until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, flour, baking soda, and salt; mix well before adding to the wet mixture.
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Cherries
Fold in dark chocolate chips and dried cherries into the dough until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden; allow cooling on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to wire racks.
Transfer to plates and enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for later!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate and fresh ingredients elevate the flavor of your cookies significantly.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix once you add dry ingredients; this helps maintain a tender texture.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate and cherries.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
This Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the rich flavors of the cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.
- Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the deep chocolate notes and complements the tart cherries in each bite.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Mix all ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag where they can last up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This method restores their chewy texture while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Suggestions for Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies:
Use Quality Ingredients
When making Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies, the quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role. Choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This ensures that your cookies will have a rich chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. Fresh, plump cherries bring a burst of flavor to each bite, so opt for seasonal fruit whenever possible. Using rolled oats instead of quick oats provides a chewy texture that elevates your cookie experience. Avoid using low-quality substitutes as they can impact both taste and texture.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies, which is not what you want for your Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. When combining your wet ingredients with the dry ones, mix just until you see no dry flour. The goal is to maintain a tender texture while ensuring everything is well incorporated. Remember, some lumps are okay! Allowing the dough to rest for about 30 minutes before baking can also improve the overall consistency and flavor of your cookies.
Measure Accurately
Accurate measurement of ingredients is essential in baking, especially for Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. Use proper measuring cups and spoons; don’t just scoop flour directly from the bag. This method can pack flour into the cup, leading to dry cookies. Instead, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision. Additionally, ensure that you measure the oats properly since they add bulk and texture to the cookies.
Check Your Oven Temperature
Make sure your oven temperature is accurate when baking Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies. An oven that runs too hot or too cold can significantly affect baking time and cookie texture. Invest in an oven thermometer to confirm its accuracy. Preheat your oven thoroughly before placing the cookie sheets inside; this ensures even cooking and prevents spreading. If you find that your cookies are browning too quickly on the edges but remain raw in the center, lower the temperature by 25°F next time.
FAQs:
What makes Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies unique?
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies stand out due to their delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rich dark chocolate contrasts perfectly with the tartness of cherries, creating a balance that pleases any palate. The addition of oats adds chewiness and heartiness, making these cookies more substantial than typical chocolate chip varieties. This unique blend not only satisfies sweet cravings but also provides some nutritional benefits thanks to oats and fruit.
Can I substitute ingredients in my Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute certain ingredients in your Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies while maintaining great flavor. For instance, if you don’t have cherries on hand, try using dried cranberries or raisins instead for a different twist. almond joy cookie recipe You can also replace dark chocolate with semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cookie. For a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or gluten-free oats but adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I store my Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies?
To keep your Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life further, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months in the freezer when placed in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I make Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan-friendly by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce as a binding agent. Use non-dairy butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter and ensure that your dark chocolate is dairy-free as well. pumpkin spice cookie recipe These adjustments will allow you to enjoy delicious vegan Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies without compromising flavor or texture.
Conclusion for Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies:
In summary, crafting perfect Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Always use fresh cherries and high-grade dark chocolate for maximum flavor impact while avoiding common mistakes like overmixing or improper measuring techniques that can compromise texture. Proper storage methods help maintain freshness over time, allowing you to indulge in these delightful treats whenever cravings strike! Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later enjoyment, these cookies offer a deliciously satisfying experience that’s hard to resist.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 cookies 1x
Description
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful blend of rich dark chocolate and tart cherries nestled within wholesome oats. These chewy cookies satisfy cravings while providing nutritional benefits, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and baking in under 12, you’ll have an indulgent treat ready in no time. Enjoy these cookies warm from the oven or store them for later enjoyment!
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
- 1/2 cup dried unsweetened cherries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg and mix until fluffy.
- In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt; then mix into the wet ingredients just until incorporated.
- Gently fold in dark chocolate chips and dried cherries.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool briefly before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie - approx. 30g
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
