Chocolate Cherry Cookies

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the sweet-tartness of cherries. They’re perfect for celebrations, holidays, or just a cozy night in. With their fudgy texture and luscious ganache filling, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of chocolate and cherries creates a unique taste that is both indulgent and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can bake these cookies without any hassle.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Fudgy Texture: The soft, chewy center makes every bite a heavenly experience.
• Impressive Presentation: The thumbprint design filled with ganache adds visual appeal to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Chocolate Cherry Cookies, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even baking and preventing sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your workspace organized while combining ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients and achieving a smooth batter.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking.

Ingredients

To make these delectable Chocolate Cherry Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 1/2 cups (188 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 cup (40 g) Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Ganache Filling

• 5 oz chocolate, chopped (Endangered Species Chocolate Vibrant Cherries + Dark Chocolate)
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (90 ml) heavy cream

For the Cherry Filling

• 1/4 cup (85 g) cherry preserves

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Sea salt

Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar

Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Add the egg yolks one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb or a small spoon to create an indentation in each cookie ball.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are firm but centers remain soft.

Step 8: Prepare Ganache Filling

While cookies are cooling, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate; stir until smooth.

Step 9: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies have cooled slightly, fill each thumbprint with cherry preserves followed by a drizzle of ganache on top.

Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Cherry Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Chocolate cherry cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a festive gathering, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert after dinner, these cookies will impress everyone.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your chocolate cherry cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the rich flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and fruit tarts for a stunning presentation.

Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm and top them with vanilla ice cream to create a delicious melting effect that contrasts with the fudgy cookie texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies before serving.

Gift-Wrapped for Special Occasions

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as gifts for holidays or special events. They make perfect homemade presents!

How to Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cookies

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your chocolate cherry cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps ensure that your butter mixes well and creates a smoother dough.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder removes lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the dough.

• Chill the dough: Letting the cookie dough chill for at least 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors and prevent spreading during baking.

• Check oven temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An accurate temperature guarantees even baking and optimal cookie texture.

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Chocolate cherry cookies can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some suggestions:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cookies perfectly.

2. Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that pairs surprisingly well with chocolate.

3. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of brewed coffee or espresso provides a robust contrast to the sweet flavors of the cookies.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that adds texture and nutrition to your dessert spread.

5. Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert experience by serving chocolate fondue alongside fresh fruits and pretzels for dipping.

6. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunchiness and complements both chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Cherry Cookies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is crucial for achieving the best results.

• Not measuring accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups. Incorrect measurements can lead to dough that’s too dry or too wet.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of rich, fudgy ones.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring. This step helps them set properly and maintain their shape.
• Not letting egg yolks reach room temperature: Room temperature egg yolks blend more easily into the dough, creating a smoother texture.
• Using low-quality chocolate: The flavor of your Chocolate Cherry Cookies relies heavily on chocolate quality. Choose high-quality chocolate for the ganache filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Cherry Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Cherry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious cookies, you’re not alone!

What makes Chocolate Cherry Cookies special?

These cookies combine rich chocolate with sweet cherry flavors, creating a unique taste that’s perfect for any occasion.

How do I ensure my ganache is smooth?

To achieve smooth ganache, heat the cream gently before mixing it with chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and glossy.

Can I customize Chocolate Cherry Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or different types of chocolate for varied flavors and textures.

How long do Chocolate Cherry Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for celebrations or as an everyday treat, they offer endless customization options. Try adding different flavors or toppings to make them your own!