Name: Indulge in Soft Chewy Black Forest Cookies with Cherries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce for vegan option); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation); 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained and finely chopped); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark/milk chocolate chips); 1/2 cup extra cherries (for garnish); 1/2 cup extra chocolate chips (for garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of chocolate and cherries began to waft through the air, transforming my space into a tempting dessert haven. I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that I was about to indulge in one of my favorite treats: Black Forest Cookies. These soft and chewy chocolate cherry cookies take only 20 minutes to prepare, with no chilling time required, making them perfect for those spontaneous cravings or last-minute gatherings. Plus, if you need options, there are gluten-free alternatives that maintain all the deliciousness without compromise. Ready to dive into this delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with juicy cherries? Let’s get baking!

Why are Black Forest Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and juicy cherries creates a cookie that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.

Quick to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, these cookies are a breeze to whip up, perfect for when those sweet cravings hit unexpectedly.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for cookie trays or holiday treats, they’ll surely win over hearts at any gathering.

Easy Customization: Feel free to swap maraschino cherries for dried ones or mix in nuts to create your own spin on these delectable bites!

Gluten-Free Option: You can enjoy all the yumminess without gluten by using a reliable gluten-free flour substitute. Check out how easy it is to get creative with different variations for your taste!

Once you try these delightful cookies, you might just want to explore other sweet treats like Lava Brownie Cookies or classic Vanilla Waffle Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Black Forest Cookies Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful world of Black Forest Cookies with these essential ingredients!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth, contributing to the chewy texture; both light and dark varieties work beautifully.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; replace with 1/4 cup applesauce for a vegan twist.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; almond extract can be a lovely alternative if you’re looking for a unique taste.

For the Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; swap it with gluten-free flour for a delightful gluten-free option.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses a rich chocolate flavor without overly sweetening the cookies.
Baking Soda – Allows the cookies to rise beautifully and adds softness.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.

For the Fruity Addition

Drained & Finely Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Brings moisture and a pop of cherry flavor; ensure they are well-drained to avoid sogginess.

For the Chocolatey Goodness

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Offer luscious chocolate pockets; feel free to substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips for a different taste.

Toppings

Extra Cherries and Chocolate Chips – Use these for garnish by pressing them into the dough balls before baking to make your cookies visually appealing.

No matter how you enjoy them, these Black Forest Cookies promise a delightful experience that merges chocolate and cherry beautifully in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect baking environment for your Black Forest Cookies. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add softened unsalted butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for creating the rich texture of the cookies, so keep an eye on it until it’s well-combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack an egg into the creamed mixture along with the vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, ensuring the egg binds the ingredients smoothly. The combination of the egg and vanilla will elevate the flavor profile of your Black Forest Cookies, blending beautifully with the chocolate and cherries.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing by hand with a spatula until a thick cookie dough forms. Be sure not to overmix; you want the dough to stay tender for those chewy cookie bites.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Next, drain and finely chop maraschino cherries, ensuring they’re not too wet, and gently fold them into the cookie dough along with the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a spatula to combine until evenly distributed. The cherries will add a burst of flavor, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a beautiful finish, gently press additional chocolate chips and cherry pieces on top of each dough ball. This not only enhances appearance but increases the deliciousness in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges appear set while the centers still look soft and slightly underbaked. This will ensure your Black Forest Cookies have that soft and chewy texture we all adore.

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set further before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. Let them cool completely on the rack—you’ll want to savor the delightful aroma of chocolate and cherry wafting through your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Black Forest Cookies

Drain Cherries Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain your maraschino cherries to avoid soggy cookies that can ruin the deliciousness.
Silicone Baking Mat: Using a silicone baking mat can help prevent sticking and ensure even browning, leading to a perfect batch of Black Forest Cookies.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients; this is key for maintaining the cookies’ soft and chewy texture.
Baking Time Caution: Watch your cookies closely while baking; they should look slightly underbaked in the middle for that irresistible chewiness.
Chocolate Flavor Boost: For an intensified chocolate experience, opt for dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for richer flavor.
Customize Your Addition: Feel free to mix in nuts or swap chocolate chips for your favorites; variations can make your Black Forest Cookies truly unique!

Make Ahead Options

These Black Forest Cookies are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your ingredients together and storing the dough covered in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, keep the dough tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a lined baking sheet and press in extra cherries and chocolate chips before baking. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Enjoy the convenience of delicious homemade cookies ready in a flash!

Black Forest Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these Black Forest Cookies and tailor them to your taste buds!

Dried Cherries: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries for a chewier texture and concentrated cherry flavor.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch alongside the soft cookie.
Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce to create a vegan version that is equally delicious.
Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend, such as King Arthur’s Measure for Measure, for a gluten-free indulgence without sacrificing taste.
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like white or dark chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the dough for a surprising warmth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Zesty Freshness: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the batter for a fragrant citrus twist that complements the cherry flavor nicely.

If you’re looking for more delightful cookie recipes, you might enjoy the tempting Lava Brownie Cookies or the classic taste of Vanilla Waffle Cookies. Dive into your baking adventure and enjoy the process!

What to Serve with Black Forest Cookies

Creating a delightful meal around these chocolate cherry wonders invites warmth and joy to your table.

Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing enhances the cookies’ flavors and adds a refreshing, creamy touch.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi complements the richness of the cookies while adding a refreshing contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, mellow notes of vanilla ice cream create a luscious combination with the chewy chocolate cherry cookies.
Espresso or Coffee: A bold coffee elevates the dessert experience, perfectly balancing the sweetness and enhancing the chocolate notes.
Chocolate Mint Mousse: A light, airy mousse infused with mint offers a unique flavor twist that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ chocolatey goodness.
Nutty Granola Bar: A crunchy granola bar brings texture contrast; its nutty essence complements the soft cookies splendidly.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights echo the cookie’s gorgeously rich flavors, adding tropical vibes that brighten the palate.
Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds elegance, lightness, and a touch of sweetness to elevate these delightful treats.

How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a colder snack, keep the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before eating.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Black Forest Cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy the delightful flavors.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy a warm cookie again, pop one in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Black Forest Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of cherries should I use for Black Forest Cookies?
I recommend using drained and finely chopped maraschino cherries, as they add a delightful burst of sweetness and moisture. Ensure you pat them dry to prevent soggy cookies, which can be a downfall of this recipe!

How should I store my Black Forest Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Black Forest Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw in the refrigerator and they’ll be perfect!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too wet?
If your dough feels too wet, it’s likely because the cherries weren’t drained well or you added too much of the cherry juice. To rescue your dough, sprinkle in a bit of extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a thick consistency. Just be careful not to overmix!

Are there any gluten-free options for Black Forest Cookies?
Definitely! You can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend like King Arthur’s Measure for Measure. This way, you won’t miss out on the soft and chewy goodness of the cookies while accommodating gluten-free diets!

Could I use a different type of chocolate?
The more the merrier! You can use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect chocolate match with these delicious Black Forest Cookies.