Name: Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 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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Introduction to Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about baking, isn’t there? When I think of cozy moments in the kitchen, one recipe always comes to mind: Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. These sweet delights are not only a feast for the taste buds; they’re also a rare treat that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you’re swamped with work or simply looking to impress your loved ones, this recipe is quick yet fabulous. The soft chocolate cookie with a luscious cherry-chocolate center is the perfect pick-me-up, making it an ideal choice for busy moms on-the-go or anyone needing a little cheer!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Let’s be real—life gets hectic! That’s why I adore these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. They’re quick to whip up and deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with a burst of cherry, making them deliciously satisfying. Plus, they impress anyone who tries them! With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, you’ll want to make this recipe your go-to for sweet moments.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delightful Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. Let’s break down what you’ll need!

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, providing structure.
Dutch-process cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor and rich color. You could use natural cocoa as a substitute, though the taste will differ slightly.
Baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise beautifully, giving them a fluffy texture.
Sea salt: Just a pinch helps to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for creaminess in the dough. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based alternative.
Light brown sugar: This adds a hint of caramel flavor and moisture. You could swap it for granulated sugar, but the cookies may be less rich.
Granulated white sugar: Sweetness galore! Combine it with brown sugar for a delicious depth.
Egg yolks: They contribute to a tender texture and richness. For an egg-free version, consider using applesauce or a flaxseed mixture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this magic ingredient brings everything together with its sweet aroma.
Dark chocolate with dried cherries: This is what gives the ganache its delightful flavor. For a twist, use chocolate with nuts!
Heavy cream: Essential for creating a luscious ganache. If you want a lighter option, coconut cream works surprisingly well.
Cherry preserves: The fruity filling adds that irresistible cherry burst! You could use raspberry preserves for a different yet tasty flavor.

You’ll find exact quantities at the bottom of this article, along with a printable version for your convenience. Let’s get ready to create some cookie magic!

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Making these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies is simpler than you might think! Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this sweet endeavor.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt in a medium mixing bowl. This step blends the dry components thoroughly and ensures an even distribution of flavors. It’s like giving your dry ingredients a little party before they meet the wet ones!

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with both sugars using an electric mixer. Mix them at high speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. The air whipped into the butter creates a light texture, which is key for these cookies. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like a cloud of sweet happiness!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once your butter and sugars are perfectly creamy, add the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture on medium speed until it’s light and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Next, gently add your dry ingredients to this wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Remember, over-mixing can turn our dreamy cookies into little hockey pucks!

Shape the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Portion the dough into about 32 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll them smooth in your hands. Use a 1/4 teaspoon to press an indent in the center of each ball. Think of this as creating little nests for the delicious ganache that will be added later. It’s a crucial step that makes each cookie unique!

Chill Before Baking

Chilling the shaped dough is essential for maintaining their shape while baking. Arrange your cookie dough balls on parchment-lined trays and let them chill in the fridge for 60 minutes. Patience is key here! While the dough is chilling, you can take a well-deserved break.

Bake the Cookies

Fifteen minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Place 8 cookies per baking sheet and bake for 9-11 minutes until they’re set but still fudgy. If you notice that the indents need a little reassurance, gently press them again after taking the cookies out of the oven. This is a small yet mighty step that ensures our ganache has the perfect home!

Prepare the Ganache

While your cookies are cooling slightly on the baking sheet, it’s time to whip up our luscious ganache. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat the heavy cream until just before boiling, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute or so to melt, then stir until it’s velvety smooth. This is the moment you’ll want to pour a little over your fingers, just to taste!

Fill the Cookies

Mix the cherry preserves into the warm ganache until fully incorporated. Now comes my favorite part: once the cookies have cooled completely on a wire rack, fill each center with about a teaspoon of this heavenly chocolate-cherry ganache. Just thinking about it makes my heart skip a beat!

Chill to Set Ganache

Finally, chill the filled cookies in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to set the ganache. Once set, store these sweet delights in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 3 days, although I can guarantee they won’t last that long!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing. It’ll blend better!
Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache—the better the chocolate, the richer the flavor.
Be gentle when filling the cookies; too much filling can overflow.
Experiment with different fruit preserves for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking dry ingredients. A large mixing bowl can work too!
Electric mixer: Essential for creaming butter and sugars. A whisk and some elbow grease will do in a pinch!
Parchment paper: For lining baking sheets. Silicone baking mats make a great alternative.
Cookie scoop: Helps in shaping even dough balls. A tablespoon works just fine!
Wire rack: For cooling cookies. A plate can substitute in a hurry!

Variations

For a fruity twist, try replacing cherry preserves with raspberry or strawberry preserves.
Make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check the flour package for measurements!
Add some texture by mixing in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the dough before shaping.
For a more decadent experience, drizzle melted white chocolate over the topped cookies once the ganache is set.
Switch up the chocolate by using milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or a rich cup of hot cocoa for a perfect afternoon treat.
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Present on a decorative platter with fresh cherries for an elegant touch at gatherings.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finishing flourish.
Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic twist!

FAQs about Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies before baking or after filling them with ganache. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 3 months!

What can I use instead of dark chocolate in the ganache?
If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to use semi-sweet or milk chocolate instead! Just keep in mind that it will alter the richness and sweetness of the ganache, offering a different but delightful experience.

How do I make sure my cookies stay soft and fudgy?
The key is to avoid overbaking! Keep an eye on them while baking, and take them out when they’re just set but still soft in the center. Chilling the cookie dough also aids in achieving that fudgy texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can definitely make these cookies gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, following the package instructions for measurements. They’ll still come out delicious!

What’s the best way to store Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?
Store these little gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, keep them chilled in the fridge to maintain the ganache’s perfect texture!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies isn’t just about baking; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with heavenly aromas and warm memories. Each bite combines rich chocolate and tart cherry, a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re sharing them at a family gathering, enjoying one with a warm cup of tea, or just treating yourself after a long day, these cookies bring a little joy to life’s busy moments. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your baking adventure. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished favorite!