Description
Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the dark chocolate chips and fresh cherries.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 32 minutes
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Kcal: 180 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for proper creaming. Use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the butter and sugars are pale and fluffy. When adding the dry ingredients, mix on low speed just until no flour streaks remain; overmixing develops gluten and leads to tough cookies. Gently pat the cherry halves dry with a paper towel before folding them in to prevent excess moisture from bleeding into the dough. Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized portions, which ensures uniform baking.
Serving Suggestions
These rich cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated for special occasions. Serve them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive platter, pair them with a glass of cold milk, a rich port, or a cup of black coffee. Crumbled over a bowl of chocolate mousse or alongside a cheeseboard with sharp cheddar creates a sophisticated sweet-and-savory contrast.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cream softened butter with sugars, then add eggs and vanilla. Whisk dry ingredients separately and combine with wet mix. Fold in chocolate chips and dried cherries. Scoop dough onto parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until edges are set. Cool briefly on the sheet before transferring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly, even patting them dry. Excess liquid will alter the dough’s consistency.
What if I don’t have dark chocolate chips? Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work well, or chop a high-quality chocolate bar into chunks for a gourmet touch.
How do I store these cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The cherries may soften the cookies over time.
Can I make the dough ahead? Absolutely. Portion the dough, freeze the balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Why are my cookies flat? This usually means your butter was too warm or melted. Ensure it is softened but still cool to the touch, and check that your baking soda is fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using melted butter, as it will cause excessive spreading. Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour. Ensure your baking soda is active for proper rise. Do not skip lining your baking sheets, as the cherries can stick. Avoid overbaking; the cookies will continue to set as they cool on the sheet.
Conclusion
These Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a decadent twist on a classic, combining rich cocoa with the tart burst of fresh fruit. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve bakery-quality results. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, they are sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!