Here’s a delightful and easy-to-follow recipe for Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies that pairs rich chocolate with sweet cherry preserves for a treat that’s simply irresistible. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple afternoon tea.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 90 mg
Why Make This Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are a dreamy combination of flavors and textures that’ll surprise and delight anyone who takes a bite. The soft chocolate cookie base is perfectly complemented by the tart sweetness of cherry preserves, creating a delightful contrast that will satisfy both chocolate lovers and fans of fruit. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a get-together, or simply because you crave something sweet, this recipe offers a quick and easy solution. Plus, the thumbprint feature makes them fun to make and decorate!
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to catch any drips from the cookies.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This step is essential for aerating the butter, which results in a tender cookie. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, and then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that lovely aroma.
Step 3: Cooking
In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mixing just until everything comes together. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Gently press your thumb into the center of each ball to create an indentation. Fill each dough indentation with about a teaspoon of cherry preserves. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until cookies feel set to the touch. Remove from the oven and cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 4: Finishing
If you desire, melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra special touch. The added chocolate will give these cookies an elegant finish that looks as amazing as it tastes!
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot tea for a comforting snack. They also make a lovely gift when packaged in a decorative box or tin. These cookies can brighten up any dessert table at events like birthday parties, holidays, or family gatherings.
How to Store Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freeze-proof container with parchment paper in between. They can be stored this way for up to three months. Before serving, let them thaw at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Don’t skip the chilling of the dough if you find it too soft; this makes rolling easier.
- Use homemade cherry preserves for a fresh flavor or store-bought for quick preparation.
- For a fun twist, try substituting the cherry preserves with raspberry or apricot preserves.
- Ensure not to overbake your cookies—12 minutes usually gives a nice soft center.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Chocolate Cherry Thumbprints: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle Variations: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Different Fruit Preserves: Use blueberries, strawberries, or orange marmalade to change up the filling while keeping it uniquely delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just let it soften a bit if it gets too hard. -
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, you can chill it for about 30 minutes, which makes it easier to handle. -
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies. -
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed to 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until it thickens) or a commercial egg replacer. -
Why are my cookies flat?
If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to melted butter or not enough flour. Be sure to measure accurately and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are not only simple to prepare but also delicious and visually appealing. They are a fabulous way to enjoy the wonderful combination of chocolate and cherry. Whether you share them with friends and family or keep them all to yourself, these cookies will surely bring joy to your taste buds and brighten your day. Don’t hesitate—get baking and indulge in this delightful treat today!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies that pair rich chocolate with sweet cherry preserves for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on prepared baking sheets. Press your thumb into the center of each ball to create an indentation and fill with cherry preserves.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until cookies feel set. Cool on a wire rack.
- If desired, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
