Indulge in rich, gooey chocolate cherry cookies packed with tart cherries and decadent chocolate. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave sweetness!

Introduction

Chocolate cherry cookies are the perfect combination of rich, indulgent chocolate and the tart, fruity burst of cherries. These cookies are soft, gooey, and packed with flavor, making them a favorite for special occasions, holiday baking, or everyday treats.

What makes these cookies so special is the balance between the sweet chocolate and the slightly tangy cherries. Using dried cherries adds a chewy texture, while fresh or maraschino cherries provide bursts of juiciness. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate to match your preferences.

Whether you’re baking for a loved one or treating yourself, these chocolate cherry cookies are a decadent way to enjoy the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries. Let’s dive into the recipe to create these delicious cookies in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cherries (or fresh cherries, chopped)
• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in dried cherries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Prepare

1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar: Ensure your butter is softened for a smooth and creamy mixture, as this helps create tender cookies.
2. Incorporating the Cherries and Chocolate: Gently fold these in to avoid overmixing the dough, which can make cookies tough.
3. Baking: Keep an eye on the cookies, as overbaking can make them dry. They should look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Servings

Makes about 24 cookies.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries work beautifully. Just chop them into small pieces and pat them dry before adding to the dough.

2. Can I substitute white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! White chocolate adds a creamy sweetness that pairs well with cherries.

3. How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

5. What other add-ins can I use?
Try adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a dash of almond extract for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Chocolate cherry cookies bring together the perfect blend of rich cocoa and fruity cherries for a cookie that’s as delightful to eat as it is to bake. Their chewy centers, bursts of chocolate, and tangy cherries make them a standout treat for any occasion.

This recipe is simple yet versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. Whether you’re gifting these cookies or keeping them all to yourself, they’re bound to impress. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the magic of chocolate and cherries transform your baking day!