Baking these chocolate covered cherry cookies is like conducting a sweet symphony where every ingredient plays its part perfectly. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries wrapped in a soft cookie is a match made in dessert heaven. Let’s dive into making these irresistible treats that will have everyone asking for more.
Why This Recipe Works
- The contrast between the rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Using maraschino cherries adds a moist, chewy texture inside the cookie, making each bite a delightful surprise.
- The cookie dough is designed to be sturdy enough to hold the cherry and chocolate but remains soft and tender after baking.
- Dipping the cookies in chocolate not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also gives them a professional, polished look.
- This recipe is straightforward, requiring no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible to bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 24 maraschino cherries, stems removed and patted dry
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp shortening
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. Tip: Always preheat your oven for at least 10 minutes before baking to ensure it reaches the correct temperature.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a soft cookie texture. Add the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Dry Ingredients
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. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
Shape and Bake
Take about a tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, place a cherry in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Tip: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dip in Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together using a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the chocolate, then place on parchment paper to set. Tip: For a quicker set, you can place the cookies in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This ensures the dough has the right consistency. If you’re short on time, you can use a cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly. To add a festive touch, sprinkle the dipped cookies with chopped nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate sets. If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Always pat the cherries dry thoroughly to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
Recipe Variations
- For a nutty twist, add chopped almonds or pecans to the dough before baking.
- Swap the maraschino cherries for dried cherries for a more intense cherry flavor.
- Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter, creamier coating.
- Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a festive version, roll the dough balls in red or green sugar before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Frozen cherries can be used, but they must be thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen cherries may not have the same sweet, syrupy flavor as maraschino cherries, so the final cookies might taste slightly different.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve dipped them in chocolate, you might want to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before shaping the cookies. This can actually enhance the flavors as the ingredients have more time to meld together.
Summary
These chocolate covered cherry cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress.