Chocolate Cherry Cookies
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If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that marries the rich flavor of chocolate with the sweet tang of cherries, you’ve landed at the right spot! These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. Combining soft cocoa cookies with juicy maraschino cherries and melty chocolate chips, this recipe has a way of brightening any occasion. Whether it’s for a weeknight dessert or a special gathering, these cookies are bound to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
So, why should you whip up a batch of these cookies? Let me tell you! For starters, they are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This makes them a perfect option for unexpected guests or a last-minute treat for your family. Moreover, the combination of chocolate and cherries makes for a beautiful, eye-catching dessert that pleases both kids and adults alike.
“These cookies were a huge hit at our family gathering! The chocolate cherry combo is irresistible!” – Sarah M.
Preparing Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Ready to dive into baking some deliciousness? Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
- Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheets.
- Mix your dry ingredients together.
- Create a buttery, sugary cookie dough infused with chocolate and vanilla.
- Gently fold in the cherries and chocolate chips for that extra burst of flavor.
- Bake until the edges are perfectly crisp and the centers are soft.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of scrumptious chocolate cherry cookies to share—or keep all to yourself!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make your Chocolate Cherry Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with whole wheat)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 jar maraschino cherries (stems removed and blotted dry)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice
Feel free to substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor!
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these directions for your Chocolate Cherry Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and cherry juice.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these Chocolate Cherry Cookies is all about creativity! For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with a bit more melted chocolate. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an over-the-top dessert experience. They also make a great addition to a cookie platter during the holidays or at parties!
How to store
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw them for a few hours at room temperature before serving!
Helpful cooking tips
Baking is both an art and a science, so here are a few tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always make sure your butter is at room temperature for better creaming and mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and make the cookies even more divine.
Creative twists
Feel adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an extra crunch.
- Different Cherries: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a touch of cinnamon or almond extract to the dough for a fragrant twist!
Your questions answered
-
What’s the prep time?
Approximately 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes for baking. -
Can I substitute the butter?
Yes, you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or margarine as an alternative. -
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for the edges to be set while the center appears slightly soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.
Now, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Chocolate Cherry Cookies! Happy baking!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the maraschino cherries, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and cherry juice.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
