There I was, standing in the kitchen, with chocolate melting and the sweet aroma of cherries dancing in the air—an upward spiral from my typical dessert routine. My heart raced as I prepared to create something special: Chocolate Cherry Cookies. These delightful fudgy thumbprints are not just any treat; they boast a luscious ganache filling that perfectly melds rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time—ideal for satisfying those chocolate cravings without hours of effort. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day! Curious about how to whip up these irresistible delights? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Chocolate Cherry Cookies So Irresistible?
Melt-in-Your-Mouth: These chocolate cherry cookies offer a delightful chewy experience with a fudgy interior that simply melts in your mouth.
Decadent Ganache: The rich chocolate cherry ganache filling adds an elegant touch that makes them perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day.
Quick and Easy: With a simple preparation process, you can satisfy your chocolate cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Pair them with a glass of milk or coffee for the ultimate treat!
Versatile Flavors: Not just limited to cherry preserves—you can swap in raspberry or strawberry for a refreshing twist!** For more delicious ideas, check out my Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate cookies or Chocolate Oat Cookies.
Chocolate Cherry Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to cookies. Note: Spoon and level to avoid excess flour.
• Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder – Offers deep, rich chocolate flavor. Substitution: Semi-sweet cocoa can be used but may alter flavor depth.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor balance. Note: Regular salt can be substituted.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Use softened butter for easier mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes to chewiness and flavor depth. Can substitute with dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Granulated White Sugar – Provides sweetness.
• Egg Yolks – Help bind the ingredients and add richness. Ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic sweetness.
For the Ganache Filling
• Chocolate (chopped) – Used for ganache filling, providing the chocolate cherry flavor. Substitution: Any quality dark chocolate can be used.
• Heavy Cream – Combines with chocolate to create a ganache. Note: Can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Cherry Preserves – Adds fruity flavor to the ganache. Alternative: Fresh chopped cherries can be used if preserves are not available.
Indulge in these Chocolate Cherry Cookies that perfectly blend the flavors of rich chocolate and sweet cherry in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of Dutch-process cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of sea salt. This mixture sets the foundation for your chocolate cherry cookies. Ensure everything is well combined and free of lumps, then set it aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated white sugar using an electric mixer on high speed. Continue mixing until the blend is light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This creamy base will add richness and flavor to your chocolate cherry cookies.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Introduce 2 egg yolks (ensure they’re at room temperature) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix everything together on medium speed until fully incorporated, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll notice the batter becoming a smooth, cohesive mixture—this is the luscious base for your thumbprint cookies.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft cookie dough. Once combined, the chocolate cookie base should feel slightly moist yet hold its shape—set it aside for the next step of shaping.
Step 5: Form Dough
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the dough into 32 balls, each about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and use a ¼ teaspoon to create an indent in each ball. Refrigerate the formed dough for 1 hour to help maintain its shape during baking.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the chilled dough for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still appear soft. This slight under-baking will ensure your chocolate cherry cookies remain chewy, so keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
Step 7: Shape Cookies
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and gently press down in the centers again to redefine the indents, if needed. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling process will help them firm up while retaining that fudgy texture.
Step 8: Make Ganache
To prepare the ganache filling, heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s just about to boil. Pour it over 1 cup of chopped chocolate in a bowl, stirring until smooth and fully combined. Add ¼ cup of cherry preserves to the mixture, blending them well into the ganache to enhance the flavor.
Step 9: Fill Cookies
Once your chocolate cherry cookies are completely cooled, fill each indent with the luscious ganache. Allow the filled cookies to chill in the refrigerator for about 10–15 minutes, giving the ganache time to set and firm up, ensuring a delightful bite full of rich chocolate and cherry goodness.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Cookies
- Measure Flour Properly: Always spoon and level your flour to avoid dry cookies. Excess flour can ruin the texture of your chocolate cherry cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the formed dough for an hour is crucial; it helps maintain the cookie shape during baking and ensures a chewy texture.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them slightly under-baked for that soft, fudgy interior, so check them around 9 minutes.
- Revive the Indents: After baking, gently press down the centers again if necessary. This will help fill them once the ganache is added, giving you that perfect thumbprint.
- Smooth Ganache: If your ganache isn’t melting smoothly, gently reheat it until completely smooth. Remember, a smooth ganache fills make for a perfect chocolate cherry cookie!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delectable chocolate cherry cookies—your taste buds will thank you!
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream in the ganache for a delightful dairy-free option.
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
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Fruit Fusion: Exchange cherry preserves for raspberry or strawberry preserves for a refreshing flavor twist. Each fruit lends its own unique sweetness!
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Extra Chocolatey: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for even more chocolate flavor in every bite.
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Flour Alternatives: Use almond flour for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the amount slightly, as almond flour can add a different texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to the cookie dough for an unexpected warmth that enhances the chocolate flavor.
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Special Occasion: Decorate the cookies with drizzles of white chocolate for a festive touch. This is perfect for Valentine’s Day or special gatherings!
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Mini Versions: Create mini cookies by dividing the dough into smaller balls, which makes for delightful single-bite treats. Serve alongside my Halloween Cookies Chocolatey for a themed dessert platter!
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these variations, and soon you’ll be reaching for a batch of these delightful cookies!
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Delightful chocolate cherry cookies are best enjoyed when paired with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their rich, fudgy nature.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a smooth, cooling contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of freshness, perfectly balancing the sweet chocolate and cherry flavors.
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Espresso or Coffee: The robust notes of espresso or a rich cup of coffee amplify the cookies’ chocolate depth, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Milk: Indulge your inner child with a chilled glass of chocolate milk, turning snack time into a nostalgic affair with extra sweetness.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip the cookies into warm chocolate fondue, creating an indulgent dessert experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream atop these cookies adds a velvety texture and lightens the dessert, creating a perfect balance.
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Red Wine: For a more elegant option, consider pairing with a glass of fruity red wine, enhancing the cherry notes while providing a rich tasting experience.
Enjoy mixing and matching these delightful options, and let your chocolate cherry cookies shine in your next indulgent gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for about a week in an airtight container, but they may lose some of their chewiness.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes for best results. Enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Cookies warm!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Chocolate Cherry Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by forming the balls and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to chill the dough for at least an hour to maintain their shape when baking. The ganache can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just reheat gently if it thickens. When ready to enjoy, simply bake the chilled dough according to the instructions and fill with ganache once cooled. This way, you’ll have fresh-baked treats with minimal effort!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose cherries for the ganache?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries for your ganache, look for fresh, ripe cherries that are firm to the touch with a vibrant color. Avoid any that show dark spots or bruises. If you’re using cherry preserves, opt for high-quality brands with minimal added sugars and no artificial ingredients.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Cherry Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but they taste best fresh! For longer storage, refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them for up to 2 weeks. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
What if my ganache doesn’t melt smoothly?
No worries! If your ganache isn’t melting completely, place a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) and gently reheat until smooth. Stir continuously to ensure a glossy finish. You can also add a splash more cream if needed to help it along.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! The ingredients listed in the Chocolate Cherry Cookies recipe do not include nuts. However, always double-check your individual ingredients and be mindful of cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with a nut allergy.
Can I use dark chocolate or other flavor variations for the ganache?
Very much! Feel free to swap in any quality dark chocolate for your ganache. You can also experiment with flavor variations by using raspberry or strawberry preserves in place of cherry for a different fruity profile. Enjoy customizing to your taste!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated.
- Portion out the dough into 32 balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled dough for 9-11 minutes.
- After baking, gently redefine the indents in the centers and cool on the baking sheet.
- Heat the heavy cream until just boiling, pour over chopped chocolate, and stir until smooth. Add the cherry preserves.
- Once cooled, fill each cookie indent with ganache and chill for 10-15 minutes to set.
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