There’s something uniquely satisfying about biting into the perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip cookie. With rich chocolate melting in your mouth and juicy cherries adding a burst of flavor, this delightful treat promises to elevate your cookie baking game. Today, I’m sharing a cherished recipe that brings these two beloved ingredients together in the most decadent of ways, perfect for any occasion.
Growing up, weekends at my grandmother’s house always meant two things: countless games of hide and seek and her legendary baking sessions. One of my fondest memories was when she first introduced me to the wonders of combining cherries and chocolate chips in a single cookie. That delicate balance of sweet, tart, and rich flavors was something I’d never encountered before, and to this day, the warm smell of these cookies baking is reminiscent of delightful afternoons spent in her cozy kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is bound to win your heart for several reasons. Firstly, it brings together the perfect harmony of sweet chocolate and tart cherries in a soft and chewy cookie. This treat is not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to make, making it a great choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. Moreover, the luxurious combination of flavors transforms these into showstopper cookies that everyone will adore, whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a cozy night in.
Ingredients Notes
The success of these cookies lies in the quality of ingredients used. Here are some helpful notes:
- Cherries: Opt for fresh or frozen cherries if available. If using dried cherries, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to ensure they’re juicy.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips complement the tartness of cherries best. However, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter cookie.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for cookies. Consider sifting the flour to avoid lumps.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer. This step is crucial for ensuring the cookies have the right texture.
Step 3
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4
In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies from becoming too dense.
Step 5
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and cherries until evenly distributed. Use a cookie scoop to place dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving ample space for them to spread. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
If dietary needs or ingredient availability require it, here are some substitutions and variations:
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
- Vegan Cookies: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg).
- Flavor Twists: For a nutty flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts. You could also experiment with white chocolate chips for a sweeter profile.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are versatile enough to serve in various settings. For a comforting dessert, pair them with a tall glass of cold milk or your favorite coffee. They also make a delightful addition to any dessert platter at gatherings. During the holidays, consider wrapping them in festive tins or boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts for family and friends. Their elegance also makes them suitable for more formal occasions like bridal showers or tea parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried ones? Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a fantastic burst of flavor and moisture to the cookies. Just make sure to pit and chop them before incorporating them into your dough. If they release too much juice, lightly pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid making the dough too wet.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking? The perfect cherry Chocolate Chip Cookie should have golden edges with a slightly soft center. This usually takes 12-15 minutes in the oven. Remember that cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you prefer softer cookies, aim for the shorter baking time of around 12 minutes.
Can I freeze the Cookie Dough? Yes, freezing cookie dough is a great way to have fresh cookies ready at a moment’s notice. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for a few extra minutes than usual.
Baking these delectable cherry chocolate chip cookies is not just a culinary endeavor—it’s about creating memories and sharing moments with loved ones. With each bite, you’re bringing together cherished flavors and the warmth of homemade goodness that is hard to resist. Whether you’ve followed me through every step or created a unique variation of your own, I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. Happy baking!
Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup dried cherries chopped
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla and egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well.
- Gently fold in the dried cherries and chocolate chips.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
