If you’re a fan of rich chocolate desserts and luscious cherry flavors, Black Forest chocolate cherry cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, these cookies combine the depth of dark chocolate with the sweetness of cherries in a delectable bite-sized form. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies

• Rich and Decadent: These cookies are packed with deep chocolate flavor and a burst of cherry sweetness.
• Elegant Presentation: Their glossy ganache topping and cherry center make them look bakery-worthy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From Christmas gatherings to birthday parties, these cookies shine in any setting.
• Easy to Make: Despite their sophisticated appearance, the recipe is beginner-friendly.

Ingredients for Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour, spooned and leveled	1 1/2 cups (188 g)
Dutch-process cocoa powder	1/2 cup (40 g)
Baking powder	1/2 tsp
Sea salt	1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter, softened	3/4 cup (168 g)
Light brown sugar, packed	3/4 cup (165 g)
Granulated white sugar	1/4 cup (50 g)
Egg yolks, room temperature	2
Vanilla extract	1 1/2 tsp
Chopped dark chocolate (with cherries)	5 oz
Heavy cream	1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (90 ml)
Cherry preserves	1/4 cup (85 g)

How to Make Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on high speed until creamy.
2. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Scoop the dough into 32 portions using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon. Roll each portion into a ball.

Step 4: Create Indentations and Chill

1. Use the back of a 1/4 teaspoon to press an indentation into the center of each ball.
2. Chill the cookie dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chilled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set.
4. Re-press the centers while the cookies are still warm, and use a round cookie cutter to reshape any uneven edges if desired.
5. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Ganache Filling

1. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
4. Mix in the cherry preserves until well combined.

Step 7: Fill the Cookies

1. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of ganache into the center of each cookie.
2. Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the ganache to set.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per cookie (based on 32 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	150
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	18g
Sugar	11g
Protein	2g

Tips for Perfect Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate

The flavor of these cookies relies heavily on the chocolate. Opt for a good-quality dark chocolate that includes cherries or pair plain dark chocolate with your favorite cherry preserves.

2. Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough

Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances their flavor.

3. Measure Ingredients Accurately

Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies.

4. Customize the Ganache

If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, increase the amount of cherry preserves in the ganache.

5. Store Properly

Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Creative Variations

1. Add a Cherry on Top

Place a maraschino cherry or a fresh cherry half on top of each cookie for an extra pop of color and flavor.

2. Swap the Preserves

Use raspberry or strawberry preserves for a slightly different fruity twist.

3. Drizzle with White Chocolate

After the ganache sets, drizzle the cookies with melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.

4. Make Them Gluten-Free

Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs About Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies

1. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and fill with ganache before serving.

2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Milk chocolate can be used, but the cookies may taste sweeter and lack the richness of dark chocolate.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?
Chilling the dough for at least an hour is essential to help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

4. Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ganache up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and gently warm it before filling the cookies.

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative, but the flavor will be slightly different.

6. Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! Their elegant appearance makes them perfect for gift boxes or holiday cookie swaps.

Why Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies Are a Must-Try

Black Forest chocolate cherry cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Their rich chocolate base, luscious ganache filling, and sweet cherry flavors make them an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

Bake Your Batch of Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cookies Today

Ready to elevate your cookie game? Gather your ingredients and try this recipe. With a little effort, you’ll create a dessert that’s both indulgent and stunning. Share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself—either way, you’re in for a treat. Happy baking!

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