Sweet and Guilt-Free Black Forest Christmas Cookies to Wow!

Name: Sweet and Guilt-Free Black Forest Christmas Cookies to Wow!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend.); 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Can swap with carob powder.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Ensure freshness.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (A pinch of sea salt can elevate taste.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Can substitute with vegan butter.); 0.67 cups granulated sugar (Consider brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 0.33 cups light brown sugar (Dark brown sugar can be used.); 1 large egg (Can use a flax egg for vegan version.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best results.); 0.5 teaspoon almond extract (Can swap with more vanilla.); 1 cup maraschino cherries (Fresh cherries are a great alternative.); 0.5 cups cherry preserves (Can use raspberry or strawberry preserves.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Arrowroot powder is a good alternative.); 1 tablespoon Kirsch (cherry liqueur) (Can replace with cherry juice.); 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (Dark chocolate can be used.); 0.5 cups heavy cream (Coconut cream is a good dairy-free substitute.); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for ganache) (Can omit for vegan recipes.); white chocolate shavings/Sprinkles/Powdered sugar (Optional for decoration.)

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights????‍????

Posted on November 10, 2025

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The aroma of chocolate and cherries wafting through your kitchen can only mean one thing: it’s time for festive baking! My recipe for Black Forest Christmas Cookies transforms the beloved flavors of the classic German dessert into delightful little treats that will warm your heart and cheer your holiday gatherings. These cookies not only surprise your taste buds with their rich, buttery chocolate and tart cherry filling but also fit seamlessly into your busy holiday schedule, thanks to their quick prep time. Whether you’re aiming to impress at a cookie swap or looking for a perfect homemade gift, these irresistible cookies will surely win over anyone who gets a taste. Curious to learn how to create these festive delights? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates an unforgettable taste that’s truly festive.

Quick Prep: Ready in no time, these cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules, making them a go-to choice for last-minute baking.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or nuts to create a signature twist—why not try them with a dash of peppermint extract for a seasonal flair?

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a cookie swap or as a sweet gift, these Black Forest Christmas Cookies are guaranteed to impress friends and family.

Pair them with a warm drink or consider adding them to your holiday cookie platter alongside Eggnog Snickerdoodle Cookies for a delightful assortment!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Acts as the structural base for the dough; substitute with a gluten-free blend if necessary.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the cherry; you can swap it with carob powder for a non-cocoa alternative.
Baking soda – Provides essential leavening for soft, tender cookies; ensure freshness for best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors; a pinch of sea salt can elevate the taste further.
Unsalted butter – Contributes moisture and richness to the dough; opt for vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Light brown sugar – Provides moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
Large egg – Acts as a binding agent; can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor complexity; always go for pure vanilla for the best results.
Almond extract – Adds a delightful nutty undertone; swap with more vanilla or hazelnut extract for a different twist.

For the Cherry Filling

Maraschino cherries – Provides both tartness and sweetness; fresh cherries are a great seasonal alternative.
Cherry preserves – Adds extra cherry flavor and moisture; feel free to use raspberry or strawberry preserves for a variation.
Cornstarch – Thickens the cherry filling to the perfect consistency; arrowroot powder serves as a good alternative.
Kirsch (cherry liqueur) – Enriches the cherry flavor; replace with cherry juice for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Ganache

Semi-sweet chocolate – Provides the rich ganache flavor; consider dark chocolate for a deeper taste.
Heavy cream – Creates a luxuriously smooth ganache; coconut cream makes for a lovely dairy-free substitute.
Unsalted butter (for ganache) – Adds sheen and extra richness; you can omit this for vegan recipes.

For Decoration

White chocolate shavings/Sprinkles/Powdered sugar – Adds beautiful finishing touches; feel free to omit for a simpler presentation.

Dive into the delight of Black Forest Christmas Cookies and watch them capture hearts this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture forms the dry base of your Black Forest Christmas Cookies and helps ensure an even rise. Set aside the bowl for later use.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ⅔ cup of granulated sugar, and ⅓ cup of light brown sugar in a large bowl for about 3-5 minutes. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, a perfect indicator that it’s airy enough to create deliciously tender cookies.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts
Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the creamed butter and sugars until well combined. This will enrich your Black Forest Christmas Cookies with lovely flavors. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any butter that may stick.

Step 4: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing; you want your cookie dough to stay soft and tender. The dough should be thick yet pliable, allowing it to hold its shape during baking.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide the cookie dough in half, flatten each half into discs, and tightly wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for 1-2 hours, which helps solidify the butter and prevents excessive spreading during baking. Your patience will reward you with beautifully shaped cookies.

Step 6: Make the Cherry Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries, ½ cup of cherry preserves, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens. Once done, remove from heat, stir in 1 tablespoon of Kirsch, and let it cool completely.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheets. Line the baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. This ensures an easy baking process for your festive Black Forest Christmas Cookies.

Step 8: Roll and Cut the Dough
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes; choose a design for the top cookies and a smaller cutter to make cutouts for the filling. Carefully transfer the cutouts to your prepared baking sheets.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. Once done, remove from oven and let cool on wire racks.

Step 10: Prepare the Ganache
In a heatproof bowl, heat ½ cup of heavy cream in the microwave until just boiling, about 30-45 seconds. Pour it over 8 oz of chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let sit for a minute. Stir the mixture until smooth, then add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for added richness.

Step 11: Assemble the Cookies
Spread a layer of ganache on half of the cooled cookies. Spoon a dollop of cherry filling on top and create a sandwich with the remaining cookies, those having cut-out centers on top. This creates a delightful reveal of the cherry filling.

Step 12: Decorate and Chill
Drizzle the remaining ganache on top and sprinkle with white chocolate shavings or powdered sugar for completion. Chill the assembled Black Forest Christmas Cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache fully. Enjoy the festive artistry you’ve created!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats—there are so many ways to make them your own!

Dried Cherries: Substitute maraschino cherries with dried cherries for a chewier texture and a more intense flavor.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for a nutty crunch that beautifully complements the chocolate and cherry.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing holiday twist that will make your cookies stand out.
Raspberry Kick: Use raspberry or strawberry preserves in place of cherry preserves for a fruity twist that’s just as festive.
Flavored Ganache: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate in the ganache for a sweeter finish that pairs wonderfully with the tart cherry filling.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to friends and family who need a gluten-free treat.

Sprinkle in your special holiday flair while sharing these memorable cookies with loved ones, or put them alongside other amazing treats like Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies and Caramel Apple Cookies, creating a dessert table that everyone will rave about!

What to Serve with Black Forest Christmas Cookies

The delightful pairing of flavors and textures can elevate your Christmas cookie experience to a festive feast!

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy, chocolatey flavors of a rich hot chocolate perfectly complement the indulgence of these cookies, creating a cozy winter treat.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tart notes of the cookies, making for an uplifting afternoon delight.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy element that balances the richness of the chocolate cookies and cherry filling.
Spiced Eggnog: This classic holiday drink brings warm spices and a festive spirit, enhancing the rich chocolate flavors of your cookies beautifully.
Mandarin Orange Segments: Fresh, juicy mandarins cut through the sweetness, adding a bright, citrusy touch that complements the cookie’s chocolate and cherry.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The luscious sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries can take your treat table to the next level and harmonize with the cookies wonderfully.
Gingerbread Whipped Cream: A swirl of gingerbread-flavored whipped cream on top of coffee or hot cocoa will provide a cozy flavor pairing that feels like a warm hug.
Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet, nutty treats echo the holiday spirit and their crunch contrasts pleasingly with the soft texture of the cookies.
Cherry Almond Spritz Cookies: A complementary choice, these delicate cookies enhance the cherry flavor and add a fun variety to your holiday cookie platter.

Dive into these delightful pairs and create a warm, festive atmosphere around your Black Forest Christmas Cookies!

Expert Tips for Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for perfect creaming. This step is crucial for achieving light, fluffy cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill the Dough: It’s essential to chill the dough for 1-2 hours; this prevents spreading during baking, ensuring your Black Forest Christmas Cookies retain their shape.
Measure Accurately: Using a kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements can elevate your baking and produce more consistent results.
Cooling Before Decorating: Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent any melting of ganache or toppings.

How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you need a longer shelf life, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To warm up the cookies, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will bring back their fresh-baked taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Black Forest Christmas Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Additionally, the cherry filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, cut, and bake as directed, and then assemble the cookies with ganache once cooled. This advance preparation ensures your cookies are just as delicious while freeing up valuable time on the day of serving!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the filling?
For the filling, I recommend using maraschino cherries for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh cherries can be a delightful alternative when they are in season, offering a burst of fresh flavor. Just be sure to remove the pits!

How should I store my Black Forest Christmas Cookies?
Absolutely! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them in a well-wrapped container for up to 1 week. Just make sure they aren’t exposed to air to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze Black Forest Christmas Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll taste nearly fresh-baked!

What if my dough is too dry or crumbly?
If your dough turns out too dry or crumbly, don’t worry! You can add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until the dough reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as that can toughen your cookies. This extra moisture should help bind everything together beautifully.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a vegan version! Substitute the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for a few minutes), use vegan butter instead of regular butter, and opt for dairy-free chocolate for the ganache. Your homemade Black Forest Christmas Cookies will still be a delightful treat!

How do I enhance the chocolate flavor in the dough?
To really amp up the chocolate flavor in your Black Forest Christmas Cookies, consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder in the dough. Additionally, using dark chocolate in the ganache will intensify the chocolate experience even further. Enjoy the rich, decadent layers of flavor!