These are the best chocolate cherry cookies! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries makes for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, these fudgy chocolate thumbprint cookies filled with smooth chocolate cherry ganache will impress everyone. Their unique flavor profile and appealing texture set them apart from regular cookies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate and tart cherry filling create a perfect balance, making each bite unforgettable.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because, these cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
- Decadent Texture: Fudgy and chewy on the outside with a creamy ganache center, they offer a delightful mouthfeel.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The thumbprint design makes them look as good as they taste—ideal for sharing!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make your process efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents warping in high heat.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Ingredients
These are the best chocolate cherry cookies! They’re fudgy chocolate thumbprint cookies filled with chocolate cherry ganache.
For the Cookies
- 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
- 1/4 cup (85 g) cherry preserves
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare them for baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Add all-purpose flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt.
2. Whisk together until fully combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another large bowl:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the two egg yolks one at a time along with the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Form Cookies
Using your hands or a cookie scoop:
1. Roll small balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
2. Use your thumb to create an indentation in each cookie.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes:
1. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 7: Prepare Ganache Filling
While cookies cool:
1. Heat heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
2. Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate in a separate bowl.
3. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Step 8: Fill Cookies
Once cookies are cool:
1. Spoon or pipe the chocolate ganache into each thumbprint.
2. Top with a small dollop of cherry preserves.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Cherry Cookies!
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies
These decadent chocolate cherry cookies are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with delightful accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that balances the rich chocolate flavors and adds creaminess.
Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies just before serving.
Fresh Cherries on Top
- Garnish each cookie with fresh cherries for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Achieving the perfect chocolate cherry cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.
Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smooth batter, leading to better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and fudgy.
Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should look set but slightly soft in the center when done.
Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Chocolate cherry cookies can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
Chocolate Mousse: A light, airy dessert that pairs well with the dense texture of the cookies.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or camembert for a savory option alongside sweet treats.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into rich melted chocolate.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Pecan Pie Bites: Small, nutty bites can add crunch to this dessert spread while enhancing its richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chocolate cherry cookies can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will enhance your baking experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Incorrect Measurements: Not using the right amounts of flour or cocoa powder can affect the texture. Always measure accurately using a scale or proper measuring cups.
Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender result.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing. Make sure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough helps flavors develop and prevents spreading during baking. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for perfect cookies.
Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent heat distribution.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store chocolate cherry cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to one week.
Freezing Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid for about 2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making chocolate cherry cookies:
How do I know when my chocolate cherry cookies are done?
The edges should look set while the center appears slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of preserves?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries, but they may alter the moisture content and texture of the filling.
What is the best way to store leftover chocolate cherry cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
Final Thoughts
These chocolate cherry cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their fudgy texture paired with rich ganache makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with different fillings or toppings like nuts or other fruits. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Indulge in the delightful experience of Chocolate Cherry Cookies, where rich, fudgy chocolate meets the sweet-tart flavor of cherries. These thumbprint cookies are filled with a luscious chocolate cherry ganache that will impress guests and satisfy your dessert cravings. Perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering or a cozy night in—these cookies offer a unique blend of textures and flavors. With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create these irresistible treats. So gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a cookie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 5 oz chopped chocolate (for ganache)
- 1/4 cup cherry preserves
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter with brown and granulated sugars until fluffy; add egg yolks and vanilla.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Roll dough into balls and make thumbprint indents on each cookie.
- Bake for about 10 minutes; let cool on sheets before transferring to wire racks.
- Prepare ganache by heating heavy cream and pouring it over chocolate; stir until smooth.
- Fill each cooled cookie with ganache and top with cherry preserves.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
