Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, you’ve probably tasted or heard of the classic Black Forest cake, renowned for its rich layers of chocolate, whipped cream, and cherries. But what if you could enjoy those flavors in cookie form? Enter Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate—a sweet treat that combines the best elements of the beloved cake into an irresistible, chewy cookie. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk, these cookies will become a new staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love These Black Forest Cookies

Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate are a twist on the traditional cake, making them easier to bake and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. Here’s what makes these cookies so special:

• Decadent Flavors: The deep, rich taste of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart, juicy cherries, creating a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and balanced.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies are soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, offering the perfect bite every time.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are ideal for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Black Forest Cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 cup (226 grams) of unsalted butter: Room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup (200 grams) of granulated sugar.
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) of brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses for depth.
• 2 large eggs: At room temperature.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• 2 1/2 cups (315 grams) of all-purpose flour.
• 1/2 cup (45 grams) of unsweetened cocoa powder.
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
• 1 cup (175 grams) of dark chocolate chips or chunks.
• 1 cup (150 grams) of dried cherries: Or use maraschino cherries, well-drained and chopped, for a more authentic flavor.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) of chopped dark or semisweet chocolate: For extra richness.

How to Make Black Forest Cookies

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 4: Fold in the Goodies

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips or chunks and the dried cherries (or maraschino cherries). Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

Tips for Perfect Cookies Every Time

• Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much and enhance the flavors.
• Customize the Cherries: If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, try adding a splash of cherry liqueur or extract to the dough.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve these cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s truly unforgettable.

Variations to Try

• White Chocolate: Swap out the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips and add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Cherry-Like Flavor: Add a few tablespoons of cherry preserves or jam to the dough for a more pronounced cherry taste.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and left to sit for 5 minutes).

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

These Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate are great for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or simply as an afternoon treat. They also make wonderful homemade gifts, especially when presented in a decorative tin or jar.

Serving and Storage Tips for Black Forest Cookies

To ensure your Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate stay fresh and enjoyable, here are some helpful serving and storage tips:

Serving Tips

1. Pair with Beverages: These cookies are perfect with a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream.
2. Presentation Ideas: Serve the cookies on a platter with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. Add a few whole cherries on top to reinforce the Black Forest theme.
3. Make a Cookie Sandwich: For a decadent twist, sandwich whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream between two cookies to create a cookie ice cream sandwich.
4. Serve Warm: Cookies fresh out of the oven are always a crowd-pleaser. Warm them for a few seconds in the microwave to bring back that soft, gooey center if they’ve cooled.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the cookies from becoming stale.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents any potential moisture buildup.
3. Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
4. Avoid Moisture: To keep the cookies from becoming too soft or mushy, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers if stacking them in a container. This helps absorb any excess moisture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Black Forest Cookies with Cherries and Chocolate for days to come while preserving their flavor and texture

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but keep in mind that fresh cherries have a higher water content, which may affect the dough’s consistency. To use fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them finely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. You might need to adjust the flour slightly to account for the added moisture.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before baking. This not only helps save time on baking day but also enhances the flavors as the dough sits. If you prefer, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months and bake as needed by letting it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before scooping and baking.

3. What type of chocolate is best for Black Forest Cookies?

For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate chips or chunks. Dark chocolate provides a rich, intense flavor that pairs well with the tart cherries. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can use semi-sweet or even milk chocolate chips. For a more authentic Black Forest taste, consider using chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60%.

4. How can I make these cookies more festive for holidays?

To make your Black Forest Cookies more festive, consider adding a drizzle of melted white chocolate for contrast and a touch of elegance. Sprinkling the cookies with a bit of powdered sugar or adding a few decorative chocolate shavings can also elevate their appearance. For holiday baking, top each cookie with a small, sugared cherry or a sprinkle of edible gold dust to make them stand out on the dessert table.

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