Name: Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup dried cherries

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If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that perfectly combines rich chocolate and tart cherries, this Chocolate Cherry Cookies recipe is your answer. These cookies are not only easy to make but also deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. The smooth chocolate pairs harmoniously with the juicy cherries, creating a cookie that feels indulgent yet comforting. Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Hazelnut Latte Cake The best part? They come together in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for last-minute desserts or satisfying late-night cravings. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this sweet adventure that will have you reaching for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this strawberry poke cake recipe recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cookies

For more inspiration, check out this oatmeal breakfast cookies recipe recipe.

Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly tart.
Quick Baking Time: With a total preparation and baking time of around 30 minutes, you can whip up these cookies in no time at all.
Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies achieve that perfect balance between crispy edges and a soft, chewy center that everyone loves.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your cookies; make sure to measure it correctly for the best texture.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds rich chocolate flavor to your cookies.
Granulated Sugar: Use granulated sugar to provide sweetness and help achieve that chewy texture.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper flavor thanks to its molasses content.
Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly while baking.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best control over the saltiness in your cookies; it should be softened for easier mixing.
Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the overall moisture of the cookies.
Dried Cherries: Choose plump dried cherries that will provide bursts of flavor within each bite of cookie.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry 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 for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture; stir until just combined. Fold in dried cherries gently so they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.

Transfer to plates and enjoy with a glass of milk or coffee for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients like flour and baking soda are fresh for optimal results.
Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough seems too soft to scoop easily, chill it in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before baking.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies

This Chocolate Cherry Cookies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate and tart cherries perfectly, creating a delightful contrast.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the cookies, making for a comforting snack or dessert.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Adding a variety of fresh fruits provides a refreshing balance to 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 dough for Chocolate Cherry Cookies up to two days in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Storing: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Ensure they are placed in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture without drying them out.

Suggestions for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making delicious Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Stale or expired ingredients can significantly affect the flavor and texture of your cookies. Always check the expiration dates on your baking soda, flour, and chocolate chips before starting your recipe. Mini Blackberry Lavender Cheesecakes Fresh cherries will also yield better results; they should be plump and firm. If using dried cherries, ensure they’re not too hard or overly sweet. By prioritizing quality ingredients, you enhance the overall taste of your cookies, making them a delightful treat.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

Overmixing can lead to tough Chocolate Cherry Cookies instead of soft and chewy ones. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. It’s okay if there are a few lumps in the dough; this will result in a tender cookie once baked. Overworking the dough develops gluten, which makes cookies dense rather than light and airy. Remember to fold in the chocolate chips and cherries gently at the end to ensure even distribution without compromising texture.

Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough is an essential step that many bakers overlook when making Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the fat in the mixture. This process prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie with better flavor. Additionally, chilling enhances the flavors as they meld together while resting. Plan ahead and give your dough time to chill for optimal results.

Measure Accurately

Accurate measurements are vital when baking Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can result in a runny batter that spreads too much during baking. Invest in a kitchen scale for precision or use measuring cups correctly by scooping flour lightly into your cup and leveling it off with a knife without packing it down. Baking is a science; therefore, consistency in measurements will lead to consistent results every time you bake.

FAQs

What makes Chocolate Cherry Cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?

Chocolate Cherry Cookies stand out due to their unique combination of rich chocolate flavor and tart cherry sweetness. The cherries add moisture and a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with melted chocolate chips. While traditional chocolate chip cookies focus solely on chocolate, adding cherries enhances both taste and visual appeal. The tartness of cherries balances out the sweetness of chocolate, creating a more complex flavor profile that elevates these cookies above standard varieties.

Can I use frozen cherries for my Chocolate Cherry Cookies?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries in your Chocolate Cherry Cookies recipe! However, make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into your dough. This ensures that your cookie dough doesn’t become too wet or soggy during baking, which could affect texture. Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Salmon Frozen cherries may also be slightly softer than fresh ones after thawing but will still provide delicious flavor and moisture to your cookies.

How do I store leftover Chocolate Cherry Cookies?

To store leftover Chocolate Cherry Cookies properly, let them cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their freshness for up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated. For extended storage, consider freezing them by placing cooled cookies in freezer-safe bags or containers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label with the date so you know how long they have been stored; they typically last up to three months in the freezer.

Can I substitute ingredients in my Chocolate Cherry Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute various ingredients based on dietary needs or personal preferences when making Chocolate Cherry Cookies. For instance, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Just keep in mind that substitutions may alter texture and flavor slightly; experiment until you find what works best for you!

Conclusion for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

In conclusion, mastering Chocolate Cherry Cookies requires attention to detail throughout each step of preparation. Using fresh ingredients ensures vibrant flavors while avoiding overmixing keeps cookies tender and chewy. Chilling dough enhances thickness and taste complexity; accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you bake these delicious treats. Whether using fresh or frozen cherries, remember that substitutions are possible but may require adjustments for optimal outcomes. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating delectable Chocolate Cherry Cookies that everyone will love!