Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies
Black Forest Cookie: Brownie Batter Stuffed Cherry Chocolate Cookies in 30 Minutes is a delightful treat that combines the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate brownies and tart cherries. With a smooth chocolate exterior and a surprise cherry filling, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings in just half an hour. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dessert or a kitchen novice eager to impress, these cookies will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
What Is Black Forest Cookie: Brownie Batter Stuffed Cherry Chocolate Cookies in 30 Minutes?
This indulgent treat merges two beloved dessert types: brownies and cookies. The outer layer of the cookie is made from rich chocolate cookie dough, while the inside features a luscious brownie batter center. To add a touch of the classic Black Forest cake, a cherry or cherry preserves is added, yielding a balance of flavors that is simply irresistible. This recipe is particularly advantageous for inexperienced bakers, as it employs straightforward steps while delivering gourmet results.
Why You’ll Love This
You will adore this recipe for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect solution for spontaneous dessert cravings.
- Unique Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries offers a flavor profile that is both classic and modern.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the surprise brownie center, and they can even help you make them!
- Versatile: Whether for a party or a family snack, these cookies can elevate any occasion.
- Lush Texture: The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the gooey interior creates a delightful mouthfeel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these delicious cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture for a chewy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the bitterness of the cocoa, creating the sweet profile.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Enhances the depth of flavor with its caramel notes.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cookie dough, yielding structure.
- 1 cup cocoa powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor characteristic of brownies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: For an added chocolatey twist.
- ½ cup cherry preserves: The surprise filling that brings the taste of Black Forest cake.
How to Make
Making these cookies is as simple as it is delicious. Just follow the steps below:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies cook evenly from the moment they go in.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. The dough will be thick and sticky.
- Scoop the mixture: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each scoop for spreading.
- Add the cherry filling: Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball and add a spoonful of cherry preserves. Then, cover the preserve with more dough to fully enclose it, ensuring that the cherry won’t leak while baking.
- Bake the cookies: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This is key for the chewy texture.
- Cool down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Substitutions
Nutty Cravings: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for an added crunch. This will also create a richer flavor profile as the nuts caramelize during baking.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for the right structure. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the cookies without sacrificing taste or texture.
Less Sweet Option: Reduce both types of sugar by about ¼ cup, and enhance the chocolate flavor with a dark chocolate cocoa powder. This will also help balance the sweetness of the cherry preserves.
Cherry Alternatives: If cherries are not your favorite, feel free to swap them with other fruit preserves. Raspberry or strawberry preserves work wonderfully. This flexibility can cater to multiple toppings, allowing you to personalize your cookie according to your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One should always be cautious about overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie rather than a soft, chewy one. Another pitfall is to not chill the dough. Although it may seem unnecessary, refrigerating the dough for just a few minutes can help with texture and prevent excessive spreading in the oven. Finally, don’t skip the cooling time! Allowing the cookies to rest will help them hold their shape and firm up beautifully.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
For proper storage, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To avoid them becoming hard, place a slice of bread in the container; this will help maintain moisture. If you want to freeze the cookies, package them in freezer-safe bags, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they are heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just scoop and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cherry preserves?
You can substitute cherry preserves with raspberry or strawberry preserves, or even Nutella if you want a chocolate-hazelnut twist. It’s all about your preference and what flavors you enjoy!
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If the mixture feels dry and crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. The dough should be sticky but not too wet.
Can these cookies be made vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil and the eggs with flaxseed meal or apple sauce. This will cater to those who follow a vegan diet without compromising on taste.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies typically result from either too much sugar or not enough flour. Ensure to accurately measure your ingredients and consider chilling the dough before baking to maintain their shape.
Conclusion: Enjoy these stunning Black Forest Cookie: Brownie Batter Stuffed Cherry Chocolate Cookies as a delightful treat for any occasion. Their rich flavor and chewy texture will leave you craving more!
