If you love cookies that combine rich chocolate and fruity cherries, you’re in for a treat! Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making these delicious cookies. You’ll learn about the must-have ingredients, expert tips for perfecting your cookies, and fun serving ideas. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this tasty delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Combination: The rich chocolate flavor paired with the tartness of maraschino cherries creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 24 cookies in a batch, they are great for parties, gatherings, or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The glossy chocolate coating and bright cherries make these cookies visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Ingredients
To make these delightful chocolate covered cherry cookies, you will need a few basic ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for coating)
Using these ingredients will help create cookies that are rich and sweet with a lovely cherry surprise inside. Each item plays a key role. The cocoa powder gives the cookie its deep chocolate flavor, while the maraschino cherries add a burst of fruity goodness. The chocolate coating enhances the treat, making it even more special. With this simple list, you can create a batch of cookies that will wow your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
– In a medium bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
Mixing and Baking
– In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until it is light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
– Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully mixed.
– Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
Shaping and Baking Cookies
– Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
– Take a maraschino cherry and press it gently into the center of each dough scoop. Make sure the dough covers the cherry.
– Bake for about 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set but the centers will look soft.
– Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cookie Texture
To get the best cookie texture, start with the right dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Mix your dry ingredients well. This helps the cookies rise just right. After mixing, let the dough cool in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step makes the cookies less spreadable during baking.
Chocolate Coating Tips
Melting chocolate can be tricky. Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting. Heat the chocolate chips and coconut oil together. Microwave in 30-second bursts. Stir after each burst to keep it smooth. If you burn the chocolate, it will become grainy and unusable. A smooth finish looks great and tastes even better.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
For a lovely presentation, use a decorative platter. Arrange the cookies in a circle. You can garnish with extra cherries or chocolate shavings. This adds a special touch. These cookies make great gifts too. Wrap them in clear bags tied with ribbons. They are perfect for any occasion, bringing joy to everyone!
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For better handling and to prevent spreading, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips for coating; it significantly enhances the flavor of your cookies.
- Drain Cherries Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain the maraschino cherries to avoid excess moisture in the cookies.
- Decorative Drizzle: For a beautiful finish, use a piping bag to drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after coating.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can swap flours to make these cookies gluten-free. Almond flour or oat flour works great. This change keeps the flavor rich and the texture soft. You can also try different types of chocolate. Use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or dark chocolate for a richer bite. Each type gives a unique twist to your cookies.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding extracts or spices can elevate these cookies. A dash of almond extract adds a nice flavor. You can also sprinkle in some cinnamon for warmth. If you want to go fresh, use ripe cherries instead of maraschino cherries. Fresh cherries give a burst of natural sweetness and a juicy center.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serving these cookies with ice cream is a treat! The warm cookie and cold ice cream make a perfect match. You can also make cookie sandwiches. Just add some ice cream or whipped cream between two cookies. This twist makes a fun dessert for gatherings or special events.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your chocolate covered cherry cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies to avoid sticking. Optimal storage temperature is room temperature, away from sunlight.
For longer freshness, you can keep them in the fridge. Just remember to seal them tightly to avoid any moisture. With proper care, these cookies stay soft and tasty for about one week.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some cookies for later, freezing is easy! Start by placing your cooled cookies on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other. Freeze them for about one hour until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds. This warms them up and makes them taste freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. Prepare the dough and shape it into balls. Then, store them in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready, bake them fresh. This way, you enjoy warm cookies right out of the oven!
How long do chocolate covered cherry cookies last?
Chocolate covered cherry cookies last about one week at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but there’s a catch. Fresh cherries have more juice than maraschino cherries. This can make the cookies soggy. If you prefer fresh cherries, pat them dry and remove the pits. This way, they work better in the cookie dough.
What is the best way to melt chocolate for coating?
The best way to melt chocolate is using the microwave. Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time. This method avoids burning and creates a smooth chocolate. You can also use a double boiler for more control.
Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! These cookies make a great gift. Their unique look and flavor impress anyone. Package them in a nice box or tin, and add a ribbon. They are perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just to show you care.
This blog post covered a delicious cookie recipe with maraschino cherries and chocolate. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and ways to perfect your cookies. I shared tips for texture and chocolate coating, along with variations for your taste. Remember to store cookies properly and experiment with flavors. Enjoy baking these treats, and share them with friends and family. Happy bakin
