Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Have you ever wondered how a simple cookie can pack so much flavor and decadence? Enter Chocolate Cherry Cookies—a divine mashup of rich cocoa and sweet-tart cherries that could leave even the most refined dessert connoisseurs speechless. These cookies are not just another sweet treat; they are a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Ingredients Needed

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

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie, giving it structure.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise to the perfect height.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Aids in browning and creates tenderness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Elevates the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses that deep chocolate flavor into each bite.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1 cup white granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 jar maraschino cherries (stems removed and blotted dry): Adds a sweet-tart burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For extra chocolatey goodness.
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk: Provides creamy sweetness and enhances chewiness.
• 2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice: Drizzled for added flavor and a hint of color.

These ingredients combine to create cookies that are not only visually appealing but also crave-worthy.

Timing

To make these mouth-watering Chocolate Cherry Cookies, you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

This is a time-efficient recipe that takes about 40% less time than the average cookie recipe, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or an impromptu sweet tooth.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This step ensures even distribution of the leaveners and cocoa.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This aeration gives the cookies their soft texture.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until thoroughly mixed, ensuring a creamy consistency.
5. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the maraschino cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The vibrant cherries will make your cookies pop!
7. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are not just delicious; they provide some nutritional value as well. Each cookie (based on 24 cookies per batch) contains approximately:

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 2g

While these cookies are definitely a treat, enjoying them in moderation can fit into a balanced diet.

Healthier Alternatives for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

If you’re looking to enjoy Chocolate Cherry Cookies while staying health-conscious, consider these alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Coconut Oil: Swap butter for coconut oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Stevia or Coconut Sugar: Use less refined sugars for lower glycemic index options.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Choose dark chocolate for added antioxidants.

By modifying a few ingredients, you can indulge guilt-free!

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, consider serving your Chocolate Cherry Cookies on a platter dusted with powdered sugar or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with extra maraschino cherry juice for added flair, or serve them as part of a dessert buffet during a holiday gathering. Pair them with a glass of milk or a rich cappuccino for the ultimate treat experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chocolate Cherry Cookies turn out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If your dough is too warm, your cookies may spread too much while baking.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven for best results; using an oven thermometer can be beneficial.

Storing Tips for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag; they can last for up to three months.

Conclusion

The next time you’re in need of a sweet indulgence, let these Chocolate Cherry Cookies come to your rescue. With its rich flavors and chewy texture, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your experiences or variations in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Using fresh cherries is possible, but ensure they are pitted and chopped. Keep in mind the moisture content might vary.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for slightly firm edges and a soft center. The cookies will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your cookie dough seems sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to an hour to make it easier to handle.

By keeping these tips in mind and following the recipe closely, your Chocolate Cherry Cookies are bound to be a hit! Happy baking!

Print