Chocolate Cherry Cookies Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful treat that brings together the luscious flavors of chocolate and fresh fruit, these Chocolate Cherry Cookies are exactly what you need. With soft, chewy centers bursting with juicy cherries and subtle hints of vanilla, paired perfectly with the richness of chocolate, these cookies offer a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting snack, these cookies will quickly become your go-to recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma you’ll love. From the soft butter that ensures tenderness to the fresh fruit that adds a pop of natural sweetness, you’ll find everything you need to make these cookies truly special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and chewiness to your cookies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crispness on the edges.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moistness and a subtle caramel flavor to the dough.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for richness and a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the softness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to stay tender.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the chocolate flavors.
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped: The star ingredient adding juicy bursts of tartness.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced: Adds a fresh, fruity sweetness that complements cherries beautifully.
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional): For a creamy contrast that elevates each bite.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off easily without sticking. This simple step sets the stage for cookie perfection.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This combination makes sure your cookies have the right texture and tenderness, while evenly distributing the leavening so your cookies rise just right.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Beat the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This process incorporates air, giving your Chocolate Cherry Cookies a wonderfully tender crumb and an irresistible golden color as they bake.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The egg adds moisture, while the vanilla infuses a sweet, fragrant note that complements the chocolate and cherries beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, mixing gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep your cookies soft and tender. Now, fold in the chopped cherries, diced strawberries, and if you like, white chocolate chips, which add a luscious creaminess that’s so delightful.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them roughly two inches apart. This ensures they have room to spread without joining together. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges look set and the tops have a slight, inviting crackle.

Step 7: Cool

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes—this helps them firm up and finish baking gently. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, so you get that perfect balance of chewy yet slightly crisp texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Garnishes

To make your Chocolate Cherry Cookies even more tempting, sprinkle a few extra fresh cherry halves or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top right before serving. A drizzle of melted white chocolate is another elegant touch that increases the wow factor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. For a simple snack, enjoy them alongside a cup of rich coffee or a steaming mug of hot chocolate to fully indulge in the chocolate and fruit goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, arrange your Chocolate Cherry Cookies in a pretty cookie box or on a decorative platter surrounded by fresh cherries and strawberries. Wrapping individual cookies in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes a charming gift that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week without losing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once firm. Frozen dough can be baked directly from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies anytime you want.

Reheating

To bring a stored cookie back to life, warm it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop it in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes. This helps soften the cookie and revitalizes its gooey cherry and chocolate magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries and strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen fruit can be used if fresh is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain the fruit well to avoid adding excess moisture that could affect the cookie texture.

Are white chocolate chips necessary?

White chocolate chips add a creamy sweetness that complements the tart cherries, but they are completely optional. You can omit them or substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips if you prefer.

How soft or crunchy are these cookies?

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies have a soft and chewy center with slightly crisp edges, making them delightfully tender and easy to enjoy with every bite.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

Yes, using a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking is a great substitute and allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these delicious cookies without missing out.

How long do these cookies last once baked?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for about 4 days at room temperature, maintaining their moist texture and delightful flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sinking your teeth into these Chocolate Cherry Cookies—the way the juicy fruit mingles with rich chocolate makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon at home or a festive gathering, baking these cookies is a wonderful way to share warmth and joy with those you love. Go ahead, give this recipe a try and watch how quickly these cookies disappear from your kitchen!

Print