Name: Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies: 32 Irresistible Treats
Prep time: 41 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 41 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 188 g all-purpose flour; 40 g Dutch-process cocoa powder; 0.5 tsp baking powder; 0.5 tsp sea salt; 168 g unsalted butter, softened; 165 g light brown sugar, packed; 50 g granulated white sugar; 2 egg yolks, room temperature; 1.5 tsp vanilla extract; 140 g dark chocolate with dried cherries, chopped; 90 ml heavy cream; 85 g cherry preserves

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Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful and indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings. These cookies feature a rich chocolate base with a luscious cherry filling, making them a perfect combination for any dessert lover. The unique thumbprint design is not only charming but also allows for a generous dollop of cherry preserves, creating a beautiful contrast that is irresistible. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious cookies that are sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. First, they combine the rich flavor of chocolate with the tartness of cherries, creating a balanced taste. Second, they are easy to make, making them a suitable option for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Third, these cookies are perfect for sharing during the holidays or at gatherings, ensuring everyone has a sweet treat to enjoy. Plus, the thumbprint design adds a unique touch that makes them visually appealing. Additionally, they can be stored for days, maintaining their delicious flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy chocolate cherry cookie recipe or a special dessert recipe, this is it!

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Gather these items:

188 g all-purpose flour
40 g Dutch-process cocoa powder
0.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp sea salt
168 g unsalted butter, softened
165 g light brown sugar, packed
50 g granulated white sugar
2 egg yolks, room temperature
1.5 tsp vanilla extract
140 g dark chocolate with dried cherries, chopped
90 ml heavy cream
85 g cherry preserves

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt until well blended.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer at high speed until pale and fluffy.
Step 3: Add egg yolks and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and beat on medium speed until light and smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until a dough forms.
Step 5: Portion the dough into 32 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll smooth, then use a 1/4 teaspoon to press an indent in the center of each ball.
Step 6: Arrange the shaped dough on parchment-lined trays and chill for 60 minutes.
Step 7: Fifteen minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 175°C.
Step 8: Place 8 cookies per prepared baking sheet and bake for 9–11 minutes until set but fudgy. Remove from oven and gently re-press the indents if needed.
Step 9: While cookies are hot, use a round cookie cutter to gently scoot each into a tidy circular shape. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Place chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat heavy cream until just before boiling and pour over the chocolate. Let sit briefly, then stir until smooth.
Step 11: Mix cherry preserves into the warm ganache until fully incorporated.
Step 12: Once cookies have cooled, fill each center with about 1 teaspoon of chocolate-cherry ganache.
Step 13: Chill cookies in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set the ganache. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Chill the ganache for better filling consistency.
For a softer cookie, do not overbake.
Experiment with different fruit preserves for a variety of flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are superb on their own, but consider pairing them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. They also make an excellent addition to a dessert platter alongside other cherry-filled chocolate cookies or holiday treats. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving!

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

To maintain their freshness, store your Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container. They can last for up to 3 days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?

The key to perfect cherry chocolate thumbprint cookies lies in not overmixing the dough and ensuring you chill it before baking. This helps maintain the cookie shape and texture.

Can I make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and chill it in advance. Just bake the cookies on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and measure your ingredients accurately. This will help ensure a consistent and delicious cookie.

Variations of Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your chocolate cherry dessert recipe. Consider making a vegan version using coconut oil and flaxseed eggs. You can also try gluten-free chocolate cherry cookies by substituting all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. For an extra burst of flavor, mix in some chopped nuts or use different types of fruit preserves.

Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies: 32 Irresistible Treats - Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Blueberry Cottage Cheese Bake for a delightful breakfast option. If you’re interested in more dessert ideas, consider our best strawberry shortcake cookies recipe.

For additional information on the health benefits of cherries, you can visit Healthline.

Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies: 32 Irresistible Treats

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 1 hour 41 minutes
Yield: 32 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies filled with a rich chocolate-cherry ganache.

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt until well blended.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer at high speed until pale and fluffy.
Add egg yolks and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and beat on medium speed until light and smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until a dough forms.
Portion the dough into 32 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll smooth, then use a 1/4 teaspoon to press an indent in the center of each ball.
Arrange the shaped dough on parchment-lined trays and chill for 60 minutes.
Fifteen minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 175°C.
Place 8 cookies per prepared baking sheet and bake for 9–11 minutes until set but fudgy. Remove from oven and gently re-press the indents if needed.
While cookies are hot, use a round cookie cutter to gently scoot each into a tidy circular shape. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Place chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat heavy cream until just before boiling and pour over the chocolate. Let sit briefly, then stir until smooth.
Mix cherry preserves into the warm ganache until fully incorporated.
Once cookies have cooled, fill each center with about 1 teaspoon of chocolate-cherry ganache.
Chill cookies in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set the ganache. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.