Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats are the perfect blend of sweet cherries and rich chocolate, offering a delightful chewy texture. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy evenings spent at home. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavor, Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherries and chocolate creates a unique taste that is both sweet and satisfying.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for parties, potlucks, or simply to share with friends and family.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy cookies that are soft on the inside with slightly crispy edges—just the way cookies should be!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or canned cherries based on availability, making it easy to adapt this recipe year-round.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delightful cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer or whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess. Choose different sizes for various tasks.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Saves time when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a fluffy mixture.

Ingredients

Sweet cherry and chocolate cookies with a soft, chewy texture perfect for sharing or snacking.

For the Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix-Ins

• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined with the buttery mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture while blending thoroughly until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and semisweet chocolate chips into the dough. Be careful not to over-mix; you want those cherries and chips evenly distributed.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them evenly so they have room to expand while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. After baking, allow them to cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats are delightful on their own, but there are numerous ways to elevate the experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve cookies topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added sweetness and creaminess.

Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based milk. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create a delicious ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries for a colorful dessert spread.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

To ensure your Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother dough.
• Do Not Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, ensuring accurate measurements.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
2. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt provides a tart balance against the sweetness of the cookies while boosting protein content.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie in warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please everyone.
4. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture and pairs well with the soft chewiness of the cookies.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, serve with whipped coconut cream for added flavor and richness.
6. Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage like coffee or tea complements sweets beautifully, enhancing their flavors while providing warmth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success.

• Overmixing the dough – This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Using too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a spoon to fluff the flour, then scoop it into the measuring cup without packing it down.
• Skipping chilling time – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies. Allow at least 30 minutes of chilling if you have time.
• Not using parchment paper – This can cause cookies to stick or burn on the baking sheet. Always line your sheets for easier removal.
• Ignoring oven temperature – An inaccurate oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Baked cookies can be frozen for up to three months as well; use an airtight container.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to gently warm the cookies without drying them out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats.

What makes Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats chewy?

The combination of butter and sugars creates a moist texture, while the cherries add moisture and flavor.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Yes, however, fresh cherries will require pitting and chopping. They may also alter the cookie’s moisture content slightly.

How long do Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these treats can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Are there substitutes for chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use white chocolate chips or even dried fruit pieces if you’re looking for different flavors.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Chocolate Cookies Treats are a delightful mix of sweet cherries and rich chocolate, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. Whether sharing with friends or enjoying as a snack, these cookies are sure to please!