Chocolate Cherry Cookies

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When it comes to cookies that pack a decadent punch, few can match the luxurious blend of chocolate and cherries. These Chocolate Cherry Cookies stand out as a perfect fusion of rich, fudgy thumbprint cookies and a luscious chocolate cherry ganache filling. With each bite, you’re greeted by the deep cocoa flavors, punctuated by a sweet, tangy cherry finish. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, special celebrations, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.

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Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Cherry Cookies

These cookies bring together the best of both worlds – the rich, slightly chewy texture of a chocolate thumbprint cookie paired with an indulgent ganache that infuses the subtle tartness of cherries. The combination creates an irresistible bite-sized dessert that is sure to impress.

Imagine the aroma of cocoa filling your kitchen as the cookies bake, and the anticipation as you top each one with velvety ganache. The chocolate-cherry duo adds a touch of elegance, making these cookies ideal for sharing with loved ones or serving at a sophisticated soiree.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chocolate Cookies:

• All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (188 g), spooned and leveled for accurate measurement.
• Dutch-process cocoa powder: 1/2 cup (40 g), for that deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder: 1/2 tsp, to provide just the right lift.
• Sea salt: 1/2 tsp, enhances the overall taste by balancing sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup (168 g), softened to create a creamy base.
• Light brown sugar: 3/4 cup (165 g), packed for a moist and chewy texture.
• Granulated white sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g), adds structure and a touch of sweetness.
• Egg yolks: 2, at room temperature, contributing to the richness and structure.
• Vanilla extract: 1 1/2 tsp, rounds out the flavors.

For the Chocolate Cherry Ganache:

• Chopped chocolate: 5 oz, preferably Endangered Species Chocolate with cherries for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Heavy cream: 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (90 ml), brings the ganache together smoothly.
• Cherry preserves: 1/4 cup (85 g), infuses the ganache with fruitiness and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Chocolate Cookies:

1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt. Set aside.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on high speed to cream the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat on medium speed until well combined.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tougher cookie.
5. Shape the dough: Scoop the dough into 32 tablespoon-sized portions and roll each portion into a ball. Press the center of each ball with a 1/4 teaspoon to create an indent.
6. Chill the dough: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
7. Preheat the oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the cookies: Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, with 10 minutes often being ideal.
9. Perfect the shape: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press the centers again with a 1/4 teaspoon and use a round cookie cutter to gently scoot the edges for a uniform shape. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Chocolate Cherry Ganache:

1. Melt the chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl.
2. Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream just until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth.
3. Add cherry preserves: Stir in the cherry preserves until fully incorporated, creating a glossy and rich ganache.

Assembling the Cookies:

1. Fill the cookies: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of ganache into the center of each cookie. If more fits, you can add a bit more to ensure a generous filling.
2. Set the ganache: Place the cookies in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the ganache to set.

Flavor and Texture Experience

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies offer an indulgent experience with every bite. The cookie itself is a rich, slightly dense base that holds up beautifully to the ganache. The Dutch-process cocoa imparts an intense chocolatey flavor, while the sugars contribute a balanced sweetness and soft chew. The ganache adds a layer of decadence, with its velvety texture contrasting perfectly with the crumbly cookie. The cherry preserves introduce a burst of tartness, which complements the bittersweet notes of the chocolate.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Chocolate alternatives: If Endangered Species Chocolate isn’t available, any high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 60-70% will work.
• Fruit variations: Try swapping the cherry preserves for raspberry or strawberry preserves for a different twist.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter and substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk to make the cookies dairy-free.
• Adding a crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios or almonds over the ganache before it sets for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect as an afternoon treat with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more decadent presentation, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve them as part of a holiday cookie platter.

Storage Tips: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

The combination of chocolate and cherry is truly timeless, and these Chocolate Cherry Cookies are no exception. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or indulging in one as a personal treat, they promise to delight with their rich flavor and sophisticated finish. Give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!