In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe.
Introduction
Welcome to Adrian Recipes, your go-to resource for delightful baking creations! Today, we’re diving into the decadent world of Chocolate Cherry Cookies—a perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is crafted to bring joy and satisfaction to your cookie jar. Let’s explore these mouth-watering treats that promise a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients List
To make these delectable Chocolate Cherry Cookies, you’ll need:
- 7 tablespoons (98 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (plus an extra 6 whole cherries)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice from the jar
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a cookie sheet with a silicone mat to help reduce cookie spread.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually sprinkle this dry mix over the wet ingredients, blending until combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Cherries
Pat the chopped and whole cherries dry with a paper towel. Slice the 6 whole cherries in half.
Step 5: Combine Cherries and Chocolate
Fold the chopped cherries into the cookie dough, allowing them to break up slightly. Gently mix in the chocolate chips.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Drop large scoops (about 2 tablespoons each) of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them evenly. Slightly flatten each dough ball with your palm and place a cherry half on top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 12-13 minutes, until the edges set and the middles are no longer wet. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch
Once cooled, mix the powdered sugar with maraschino cherry juice and drizzle the pink glaze over the cookies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Chocolate Cherry Cookies contains approximately:
- Calories: 176 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 34 mg
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.4 g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For those looking to make a healthier version of Chocolate Cherry Cookies, consider these substitutions:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or honey.
- Opt for dark chocolate chips to reduce sugar content and increase antioxidants.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Cherry Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of rich espresso or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorative platter at your next gathering or gift them in a charming box for a sweet surprise.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies.
- Skipping the Cherry Drying Step: Excess moisture can cause cookies to spread too much.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on baking time to ensure the cookies remain soft and chewy.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store your Chocolate Cherry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months, ensuring they are well-wrapped to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweet tang of cherries. Perfect for any occasion, they promise to be a hit among friends and family. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of these irresistible cookies!
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, but be sure to pit and dry them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?
A: Adding a pinch more of instant espresso powder can intensify the chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavor.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out our related posts for more baking inspiration!
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a cookie sheet with a silicone mat to help reduce cookie spread.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract, and mix until thoroughly combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. Sprinkle over the wet ingredients, and mix to combine.
- Place the chopped cherries and whole cherries on a paper towel to lightly dry them. Cut the 6 whole cherries in half to make 12 halves.
- Add the chopped cherries to the cookie dough and lightly stir them in. Stir in 1/4 cup of the chocolate chips.
- Drop large scoops of dough (2 tablespoons each) onto a cookie sheet, evenly spaced. Press each dough ball down slightly with your palm. Then, place a cherry half on top of each cookie.
- Bake for 12-13 minutes, until the edges of the cookie begin to set and the middles aren’t wet. Let cool on the sheet pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are cool, combine the powdered sugar with the maraschino juice from the jar. Drizzle the pink glaze over the cookies.
