Rich Double Chocolate Cherry Cookies: An Easy Holiday Treat

These festive Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a holiday tradition in my kitchen, bringing together the deep, rich flavor of dark chocolate with the wonderfully chewy and tangy surprise of dried cherries. There’s something so comforting about the aroma of these beauties baking, a scent that instantly fills the house with warmth and holiday cheer.

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It reminds me of being a little girl, standing on a stool to see over the counter while my mom prepared her Christmas cookie platters. She had a special tin just for her chocolate cookies, and the combination of chocolate and fruit was always her favorite. I’ve carried that tradition on, and these cookies are my little nod to her memory.

What I love most about this recipe is how it delivers such a decadent, impressive cookie with minimal fuss. They’re hearty and satisfying without being complicated, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules. My best tip? Don’t be shy with the chocolate chips and cherries—every bite should be packed with goodness!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

The secret to these incredible Chocolate Cherry Cookies lies in a few key ingredients, like rich Dutch-process cocoa powder and chewy, tart dried cherries that create the perfect flavor balance. The full ingredient list and measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Making these cookies is a joyfully simple process that fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma. You’ll start by whisking your dry ingredients together in one bowl. In another, you’ll cream the butter and sugars until they’re light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs and extracts. Finally, you’ll combine everything and fold in those glorious chocolate chips and cherries before scooping and baking. It’s a simple rhythm, much like making these classic buttery spritz cookies!

Decadent Double Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Rich, fudgy double chocolate cookies studded with sweet-tart dried cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips. These are the perfect festive treat for any holiday cookie platter!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 198

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cookies

• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder sifted
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Unsalted butter softened to room temperature (2 sticks or 226g)
• 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup Light brown sugar firmly packed
• 2 Large eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp Almond extract optional, but enhances the cherry flavor
• 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup Dried tart cherries roughly chopped

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
• Baking Sheets
• Parchment Paper
• Cookie scoop

Method

 

Prepare and Mix Dry Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Create the Cookie Dough

• In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together on medium-high speed until creamy and light, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
• Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
• Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped dried cherries.

Scoop and Bake

• Drop rounded tablespoons of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. A medium cookie scoop works perfectly for this.
• Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. The cookies will continue to bake on the hot pan after being removed from the oven.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For the best results and to prevent spreading, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough deepens the flavor and creates a thicker, chewier cookie.

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Variations: Try swapping the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a different flavor profile.

Pro Tips for Making This Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Over the years, I’ve learned a few things that take these cookies from good to absolutely unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite tips to guarantee perfect results every time you make these Chocolate Cherry Cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, tender ones.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is a big one! Having your butter and eggs at room temperature is crucial. They emulsify much better, creating a smoother, more uniform dough that traps air, resulting in a lighter cookie texture.
• Chill the Dough (If You Have Time): While not required, chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes can make a world of difference. It solidifies the butter, which means the cookies spread less in the oven, giving you a thicker, chewier result.
• My Secret Trick: I always add a tiny pinch more salt than most recipes call for. Salt doesn’t just add saltiness; it enhances all the other flavors, especially the deep notes of the chocolate. It’s that little secret that makes people wonder why your cookies taste so much better!

Fun Variations for Chocolate Cherry Cookies

While this classic recipe is a family favorite, it’s also a fantastic starting point for a little creativity! It’s fun to put your own spin on these Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Here are a few variations I’ve tried and loved:

• Add Toasted Nuts: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, try adding about a half-cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. The nutty crunch is a wonderful contrast to the chewy cherries and soft cookie.
• Switch Up the Chocolate: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, try using dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor, or even white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier taste that pairs beautifully with the tart cherries.
• A Hint of Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper can add a lovely warmth and complexity to the dough. It’s an unexpected twist that makes the chocolate flavor pop.
• Black Forest Twist: To lean into that classic flavor combination, consider adding a few extra drops of almond extract. It really enhances the cherry notes, reminiscent of a delicious Black Forest Trifle.

What to Serve With Chocolate Cherry Cookies

These cookies are a treat all on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right simple pleasure. Here are a few cozy ideas for serving your Chocolate Cherry Cookies:

• A Glass of Cold Milk: You can’t beat a classic! The cool creaminess of milk is the perfect companion to a rich, warm chocolate cookie.
• Hot Cocoa or Coffee: For an extra-decadent experience, enjoy them with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or a freshly brewed cup of coffee. It’s the ultimate cozy afternoon snack.
• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Turn your cookie into a mini dessert by serving it warm with a small scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold is simply divine.

How to Store Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Proper storage is key to keeping your cookies fresh and delicious. Here’s how I store my leftover Chocolate Cherry Cookies:

• At Room Temperature: Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. They will stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days. I like to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking.
• Freezing for Later: This dough freezes beautifully! You can either freeze the scooped dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag, or freeze the baked cookies. Baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Nutritional Benefits

While these are certainly a treat, these Chocolate Cherry Cookies offer a little something extra from the dark chocolate and cherries, which are both known to contain antioxidants. It’s all about enjoying comforting, homemade goodies in moderation!

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe?

I wouldn’t recommend it. Fresh or frozen cherries release too much water during baking, which will make your Chocolate Cherry Cookies cakey and can cause them to spread too thin. Dried tart cherries provide the perfect chewy texture and concentrated flavor.

Why is Dutch-process cocoa powder specified?

Dutch-process cocoa powder has been treated to neutralize its acidity, giving it a smoother, less bitter flavor and a darker color. It’s what gives these Chocolate Cherry Cookies their signature rich, deep chocolatey taste and beautiful appearance.

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be made and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days before baking. Chilling the dough actually enhances the flavor and results in thicker, chewier cookies, so it’s a win-win!

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to bake a little on the hot cookie sheet after you remove them from the oven. This is the secret to a perfectly soft and chewy center!

Conclusion

I hope you and your family love these Chocolate Cherry Cookies as much as mine does. They are more than just a recipe; they are a little piece of our holiday tradition, full of warmth, comfort, and delicious memories. Baking these is a simple, stress-free way to bring a little handmade joy into your home, and I can’t wait for you to try them.

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