Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and pantry ingredients make these cookies a quick and easy treat.
- Rich and Chewy: The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chunks makes for the ultimate chocolate indulgence.
- Sweet and Tart: The dried cherries add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are an irresistible treat, perfect for any chocolate lover! Soft and chewy with bursts of tart cherry and rich chocolate chunks, these cookies are as delicious as they are eye-catching. Whether for holiday baking, gift-giving, or a cozy night in, these cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup chocolate chunks or chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped dried cherries and chocolate chunks with a spatula.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use Softened Butter: This helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center when you remove them from the oven; they’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Chop Cherries Finely: Smaller pieces of cherry distribute more evenly through the cookie for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies warm with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
A: Dried cherries work best for this recipe as fresh cherries add too much moisture. If you’d like to use fresh, pat them dry and use sparingly.
Q2: Can I add nuts to these cookies?
A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add great texture and flavor. Try adding about 1/2 cup to the dough.
Q3: How can I make these cookies extra chewy?
A: Adding an extra tablespoon of brown sugar can increase chewiness, as brown sugar holds more moisture.
Conclusion: A Decadent Cookie to Savor
These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a delightful mix of rich chocolate and tangy cherry that will make them a favorite any time of year. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging in on a cozy evening. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
- Fiber: 1g
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 7g
