Chocolate Cherry Cookies for Easy Holiday Baking

© Original recipe by Tasty Keepsakes ©

🍒🍫 Chocolate Cherry Cookies for Easy Holiday Baking 🎄

1. Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, what better way to celebrate than with an irresistibly tasty treat? These chocolate cherry cookies blend rich, velvety chocolate with burst of tart cherries, creating a perfect combination for festive cherry cookies that delight the senses. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or a cozy family gathering, this recipe offers a deliciously simple way to impress. The aroma of melting chocolate combined with the sweet-tart juiciness of cherries will fill your home with warmth and holiday cheer.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 mins: Perfect for last-minute holiday baking.
• Festive cherry cookies: A vibrant twist on classic cookies, ideal for holiday celebrations.
• Simple ingredients: Easy to find pantry staples with optional high-end tweaks for flavor boost.
• Versatile & customizable: Adjust sweetness, add nuts, or make it dairy-free!
• Great for gifting: Pack these up in festive boxes for thoughtful holiday presents.

3. Ingredient Notes

When choosing ingredients for chocolate cherry cookies, quality makes a noticeable difference. Use high-quality dark chocolate, such as [couverture or premium baking chocolate](https://amzn.to/4nSc98l), to achieve that deep, luscious flavor. Fresh, pitted cherries—either frozen or dried—bring a tart burst that balances the sweetness of the chocolate. For a richer texture, consider using unsalted butter and good vanilla extract — these add aromatic complexity. If you prefer a healthier twist, swap in natural sweeteners or gluten-free flours to suit dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To create these festive cherry cookies effortlessly, a few kitchen essentials are key:

• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect if you want to bake or reheat cookies with crispy edges.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange: Ideal for mixing dough effortlessly.

5. How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather your high-quality chocolate, fresh or dried cherries, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Your mixture should be aromatic and smooth, resembling a silky batter.

Step 3: Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients

Gradually add flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to your wet mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Gently fold in chopped chocolate and cherries, distributing them evenly through the dough.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden. The centers should still look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool. The aroma of rich chocolate paired with fruity cherries will make your kitchen smell divine.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Chill your dough: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes if the dough is too sticky—this helps cookies hold their shape.
• Don’t over-bake: Remove cookies once edges are golden for a chewy center.
• Add nuts: Toasted almonds or pecans add a delightful crunch—mix into the dough with cherries.
• Experiment with flavors: A splash of almond extract enhances cherry flavor; add to the dough for extra aroma.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also swap dried cherries for fresh cherries if in season—just chop and toss them in as you would with dried cherries. If you prefer white chocolate, it pairs beautifully with dried cranberries for a different festive twist.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store these holiday cookie recipes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a resealable bag—defrost at room temperature. Reheat in an oven or [convection oven](https://amzn.to/4ecmcBU) at 350°F for a few minutes to regain that just-baked warmth and gooey chocolate.

9. FAQ

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

A: Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Using almond flour offers a nutty flavor and a moist texture, but you’ll need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly.

Q: How can I make these cookies extra festive?

A: Decorate with holiday-themed sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate for an elegant touch. You can also roll the dough in colored sugar before baking for added sparkle.

Q: Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

A: Absolutely! Pack them in decorative tins or festive boxes. For an extra special touch, include a handwritten recipe card with your holiday greetings.

10. Conclusion

These chocolate cherry cookies combine the decadent richness of chocolate with the vibrant tartness of cherries, making them a holiday baking essential. Easy to prepare, beautifully festive, and irresistibly tasty, they are sure to become a favorite. Try baking these delightful treats this season and impress your friends and family with your festive cherry cookies. For more holiday inspiration, explore other festive charcuterie wreaths or quick recipes. Happy baking!

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