In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe.
Introduction
Indulge in the delightful fusion of rich chocolate and luscious cherries with our Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. This decadent treat combines the robust flavor of chocolate with the sweet, tangy burst of cherry, creating a cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients List
To create these irresistible Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- 2 ounces Chocolate Almond Bark (or chocolate melting wafers)
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture, so take your time to ensure the mixture is well-combined.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a subtle aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Incorporate the cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour into the wet mixture. Blend until the dough is smooth and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them on a greased baking sheet or a sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to press into the center of each ball, creating a well for the cherry filling.
Step 5: Add Cherry Filling
Place two cherries from the cherry pie filling into the well of each cookie. The cherries add a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft in the center.
Step 7: Cool and Drizzle
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Melt the Chocolate Almond Bark according to package directions and drizzle it over the cookies. Let the chocolate set before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 216 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
- Sodium: 105 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 14 g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For those seeking a lighter version of Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies, consider these substitutions: – Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. – Substitute coconut sugar or a sugar alternative for white sugar to reduce refined sugar content. – Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content instead of Chocolate Almond Bark for a richer, less sweet drizzle.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a sweet finish to any meal. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea to enhance the flavors. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter adorned with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet ensures they set properly without breaking apart.
- Using Cold Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and optimal texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store your Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer and thaw before serving to maintain their freshness.
Conclusion
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie repertoire. With their rich chocolate base and tangy cherry topping, they offer a unique flavor experience. Follow our step-by-step guide to create cookies that are both beautiful and delicious, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling? Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you may need to cook them down with a bit of sugar to achieve the right consistency.
2. What can I use instead of Chocolate Almond Bark? You can use chocolate chips or any chocolate melting wafers as a substitute for Chocolate Almond Bark.
3. How do I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much? Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.
For more delightful recipes and baking tips, explore AdrianRecipes.com where you’ll find a treasure trove of delicious ideas and culinary inspiration. Happy baking!
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and mix until combined. Add cocoa, salt, baking soda, baking powder and flour. Mix until combined.
- Roll dough into 1 ½ inch balls. Place on greased baking sheet or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press thumb into center of cookie to make a well. Place two cherries in each cookie.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. Cool on baking sheet 2 minutes. Remove to wire rack to finish cooling.
- Melt chocolate almond bark according to package directions. Drizzle over cookies. Let the chocolate set and serve immediately or store in an air tight container.
