**Meta Title:** Chocolate Cherry Cookies – Easy Christmas Cookie Recipe
**Meta Description:** Whip up these easy Chocolate Cherry Cookies for a festive treat! Ideal for Christmas with rich chocolate and tart cherries in every bite.
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There’s something undeniably magical about the Christmas season. The festive lights twinkling in the night, the smell of pine in the air, and the warmth of loved ones gathering around with laughter and joy. And then there’s the baking—the intimate ritual of preparing beloved treats to share. If you’re anything like me, you have a certain craving that surfaces year after year, amidst the hustle and bustle. As soon as the weather turns chilly, I can’t resist the urge to bake delicious cookies. That yearning is fulfilled with these **Chocolate Cherry Cookies**—a holiday classic that erupts with flavor and warmth in every bite.
Imagine, if you will, a cookie that combines the richness of chocolate with the tangy sweetness of cherries. These cookies are soft yet satisfyingly chewy, with a glossy dark chocolate richness that sings in harmony with bright bursts of cherry. This easy Christmas cookie recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a experience for the senses—both beautiful and utterly enchanting.
But you know what the best part is? You don’t have to be a professional baker to make them! Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in, these cookies are easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients that you probably have on hand.
What are Chocolate Cherry Cookies?
Chocolate Cherry Cookies are exactly what they sound like: a delightful combination of **chocolate** and **dried cherries** in cookie form. This recipe draws inspiration from classic cookie flavors, adding a unique twist with the addition of tart cherries that perfectly balance the richness of the chocolate. The origins of cookie recipes can be traced back centuries, but it’s the cookie’s evolution over time, adapting to include various ingredients and flavors, that has brought us to this luxurious treat.
The texture of these cookies is a pleasing blend of soft and chewy, providing a little resistance as you bite into them. The chocolate chips, melted into gooey pools during baking, offer a luxurious mouthfeel, while the dried cherries add a delightful surprise with their slight chewiness and sweet-sour flavor. The overall experience is like taking a stroll through a winter wonderland with every warm, fragrant bite. Plus, who can resist that glossy finish from the melted chocolate?
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cookie Recipe
This **Chocolate Cherry Cookie** recipe is bound to become a new favorite for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy—taking just around 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll love how quickly you can bake up a batch of these cookies that are sure to impress both family and friends.
Not only do they taste fabulous, but they also fill your house with the most comforting aroma. Imagine the mingling scents of baked chocolate, hints of vanilla, and fruity cherries wafting through the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen. These cookies are perfect for gift-giving during the holidays, or as part of a cookie swap—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a homemade treat?
In addition, they are highly versatile. While the chocolate cherry combination is delightful, you can swap the cherries for other dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, to suit your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavors or experimenting with different types of chocolate for more depth.
If you’re looking for a festive recipe that combines ease with flavor and joy, look no further. This easy Christmas cookie recipe is sure to be a showstopper!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For these delectable **Chocolate Cherry Cookies**, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1. **All-Purpose Flour** (2 cups): The backbone of any cookie, providing structure and chewiness. Make sure to measure it correctly!
2. **Unsweetened Cocoa Powder** (1/2 cup): This adds an intense deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa adds more complexity and smoothness.
3. **Baking Soda** (1 teaspoon): This leavening agent helps the cookies rise slightly, creating that perfect texture.
4. **Salt** (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
5. **Unsalted Butter** (1 cup, softened): A source of richness and moisture, providing that lovely buttery flavor.
6. **Brown Sugar** (1 cup): Its molasses content boosts the cookie’s flavor, contributing to a chewy texture.
7. **Granulated Sugar** (1/2 cup): Balances the flavors and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
8. **Egg** (1 large): Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture and richness.
9. **Vanilla Extract** (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, sweet note that complements chocolate beautifully.
10. **Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips** (1 cup): The star of the medley—a generous amount ensures each bite is fully chocolatey.
11. **Dried Cherries** (1 cup): The tartness adds charm and a delightful burst in each bite.
For substitutions, if you prefer a different sweetener, coconut sugar works well. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Making these Chocolate Cherry Cookies is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your cookie-making adventure is a success:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that desirable golden-brown color.
2. **Prepare the Dough:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the **all-purpose flour**, **cocoa powder**, **baking soda**, and **salt** until well combined. This helps in mixing the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring a uniform distribution of flavors.
3. **Beat the Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the **softened butter**, **brown sugar**, and **granulated sugar**. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll want to see that lovely pale color indicating air has been introduced.
4. **Add the Egg and Vanilla:** Next, add in the **egg** and **vanilla extract**. Beat until just combined; you should see a smooth, creamy mixture with no visible streaks of egg.
5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—after all, you want your cookies to be soft and tender.
6. **Fold in Chocolate and Cherries:** Now, using a spatula, fold in the **semi-sweet chocolate chips** and **dried cherries**. Make sure it’s evenly mixed so each cookie has a splash of cherry and a chunk of chocolate.
7. **Scoop the Dough:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. **Bake:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges look set but the centers still appear a bit soft—that’s the key to soft cookies!
9. **Cool Down:** Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set properly without becoming too hard.
10. **Enjoy:** Once cooled, grab a glass of milk or hot cocoa and indulge in your delightful creations!
Tips, Tricks & Variations
Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your Chocolate Cherry Cookies:
1. **Storage:** Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the dough before baking—just scoop them into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, and bake from frozen when the cookie craving hits!
2. **Reheating:** If you want that freshly-baked taste, pop the cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.
3. **Spice Swaps:** Feel free to play around with spices! Adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.
4. **Vegan Version:** To make these cookies vegan, substitute the **butter** with plant-based margarine or coconut oil, the **egg** with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water), and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
5. **Plating Ideas:** Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving for an elegant touch.
What to Serve With Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Pair these chocolate cherry cookies with various delightful accompaniments to create a festive spread.
– **Beverages:** They’re perfect with a tall glass of cold milk, warm spiced chai, or a steaming cup of hot cocoa. The creamy textures complement the rich cookies perfectly.
– **Ice Cream:** Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture. You could even crumble the cookies over the ice cream for a delightful topping!
– **Cheese Board:** Create a simple cheese board with crackers, assorted cheeses, and dried fruits to balance the rich sweetness of the cookies.
Whether enjoyed directly from the oven or as part of a holiday gathering, these chocolate cherry cookies are bound to charm everyone during the Christmas season.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
These **Chocolate Cherry Cookies** bring some nutritional value along with their indulgent flavor. Cherries are known for their antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory benefits. The cookies provide a delightful treat while still incorporating some wholesome ingredients. Each cookie offers approximately 120 calories, depending on the size, while also bringing in a sprinkle of beneficial fiber from the cherries.
If you’re conscious of sugar intake, consider using lower-sugar varieties or adding nuts for extra health benefits. For detailed nutritional information, check sources like [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com) and the [USDA](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?**
Using fresh cherries is possible, but you’ll need to reduce moisture from other ingredients to prevent the dough from becoming too wet. Dried cherries retain their sweetness and provide a lovely chew, making them more suited for this cookie recipe.
2. **How do I know when my cookies are done baking?**
These cookies should be set on the edges but slightly soft in the center. If you overbake them, they may become too firm. Remember, they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
3. **Can I make these cookies gluten-free?**
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum, or consider adding a bit to improve texture.
4. **How long can I store baked cookies?**
Baked cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them; they last for up to three months in the freezer.
5. **Can I make dough in advance?**
Absolutely! The cookie dough can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for longer storage. Just remember to let it chill for about 10 minutes at room temperature before baking if frozen.
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As the frosting of icing glistens atop your freshly baked cookies, do you feel the holiday spirit bubbling in your heart? The true magic of baking lies not only in the flavors and aromas but also in the connections we forge through our shared love of food. I hope you delight in making these Chocolate Cherry Cookies with your loved ones this holiday season. They’re sure to fill your home with sweet memories and joy!
If you’ve enjoyed baking these cookies, please leave a comment below, or tag me on Instagram with your creations—I can’t wait to see how they turn out! Happy baking!
