Introduction
Chocolate cherry cookies are a delightful combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and the tangy sweetness of cherries. These thumbprint cookies feature a decadent chocolate base paired with a luscious chocolate cherry ganache filling, making them the perfect treat for any special occasion or casual indulgence. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a holiday tray, or a midweek dessert craving, these cookies promise to deliver joy in every bite.
Overview of the Recipe
These chocolate cherry cookies are not only visually appealing but also a breeze to make. Featuring Dutch-process cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor and cherry preserves for a fruity twist, these cookies are chewy, fudgy, and irresistibly good. A quick preparation time and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to both seasoned bakers and beginners.
History and Origin
While thumbprint cookies have roots in Scandinavian baking traditions, the addition of chocolate and cherries lends this recipe a modern twist. Combining chocolate with fruit has long been a favorite in European desserts, particularly in the form of ganache. This recipe marries the rich traditions of thumbprint cookies with the indulgence of ganache, resulting in a confection that feels both nostalgic and innovative.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cookies:
1 ½ cups (188 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
½ cup (40 g) Dutch-process cocoa powder
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp sea salt
¾ cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Cherry Ganache:
5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
¼ cup + 2 tbsp (90 ml) heavy cream
¼ cup (85 g) cherry preserves
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer at high speed until smooth.
Step 2: Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until fully combined.
Step 4: Shaping and Chilling the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough (about 32 portions). Roll each into a ball.
Use a ¼ teaspoon to create an indent in the center of each dough ball.
Place the dough balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Step 5: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Arrange the chilled dough balls on the baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9-11 minutes. Immediately after removing from the oven, press the centers again with the ¼ teaspoon to maintain the indent.
Use a round cookie cutter to reshape the cookies if necessary. Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Preparing the Chocolate Cherry Ganache
Place chopped chocolate in a medium heat-safe bowl.
Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just before boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes.
Stir the mixture until smooth, then add the cherry preserves and mix until fully combined.
Step 7: Assembling the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, fill the indentations with about 1 teaspoon of ganache.
Chill the filled cookies in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to set the ganache.
Step 8: Storing and Serving
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 weeks.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Beverages: Serve with a glass of cold milk, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, or hot cocoa for a complementary flavor experience.
Dessert Platter: Pair these cookies with other baked treats like lemon curd cookies or chewy peanut butter cookies for a festive dessert spread.
Variations of the Recipe
White Chocolate Ganache: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter ganache.
Almond Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a nutty flavor.
Cherry-Free Version: Replace cherry preserves with raspberry or strawberry preserves for a different fruity profile.
Health Benefits Notes
Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health.
Cherries: Contain vitamins and antioxidants that promote overall wellness.
Moderation: While delicious, these cookies are best enjoyed as an occasional treat due to their sugar and fat content.
FAQs
Q: Do I really need to chill the dough?
A: Yes! Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring a chewy texture and defined shape.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, but note that the texture might vary slightly.
Q: How do I prevent the ganache from becoming too thick?
A: Ensure the cream is adequately heated before combining with the chocolate, and stir the ganache until smooth.
Pro Tips
Measuring Flour: For accuracy, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Perfect Shapes: Use a cookie cutter to reshape the cookies immediately after baking for a professional look.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best consistency in the dough.
Conclusion
Chocolate cherry cookies are a heavenly treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the tanginess of cherries. Their chewy texture, indulgent ganache filling, and attractive appearance make them perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Follow this detailed guide to create a batch of cookies that will impress family and friends. Happy baking!