When the rich scent of chocolate mingles with the sweet tang of cherries, it’s impossible not to feel a wave of nostalgia. I discovered the delightful combination of flavors for these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies during a cozy afternoon baking session. What started as a simple craving for something sweet turned into a joyful adventure, filling my kitchen with warmth and laughter.
As I rolled the dough into little spheres, I could already imagine the enchanting moment when my family would gather around, eagerly awaiting the first bite. These cookies are not just any treat; they are a celebration of comfort, bringing together the deep, indulgent taste of chocolate with bursts of fruity cherry that excite the palate.
In just under 30 minutes, you can create a batch of these delicious morsels that are perfect for any occasion—whether you need a show-stopping dessert for a dinner party or a simple pick-me-up after a long day. Join me in transforming everyday ingredients into a special sweet that is sure to delight the entire family!
Why are Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies a must-try?
Decadent flavors: Experience the perfect fusion of rich chocolate and vibrant cherry, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Quick & easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, these cookies are ideal for busy bakers wanting to impress.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to be the star of any dessert table and loved by all!
Versatile: Enjoy them as a festive treat during the holidays or as a sweet snack any day of the week.
Fun to make: Get the family involved in creating these charming cookies, making it a joyous baking session.
For more delicious ideas, check out our easy cookie recipes!
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookie Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful treat!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (226g), softened for that perfect creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup (150g) to add sweetness and lightness to your cookies.
- Egg yolk – 1 large, giving richness and helping bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, because it enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors wonderfully.
- All-purpose flour – 1 ¼ cups (160g), the backbone of your cookie dough for structure.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – ½ cup (40g) to provide that rich chocolate taste.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon, a pinch to amplify the sweetness and flavors of the cookies.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate – 8 oz (225g), finely chopped, for dipping to create a luscious finish.
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening – 1 teaspoon, used to achieve a smooth melting chocolate that coats evenly.
For the Cherry Filling
- Cherry pie filling – 1 cup, or about 20 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry, bringing a sweet burst of fruity flavor to each cookie.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to indulge in the delightful process of making Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies!
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates the light texture your cookies need.
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Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined, ensuring a rich and flavorful base for your dough.
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Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms; it should come together smoothly and not be sticky.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and shape them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for spreading.
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Press your thumb gently into the center of each cookie ball to create an indentation. This is where the sweet cherry filling will go!
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Fill each indentation with a small amount of cherry pie filling or one maraschino cherry. Make sure to get a good amount for that burst of flavor!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft. This is the perfect moment when chocolate aroma fills your kitchen!
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Melt the chocolate and coconut oil (or shortening) together in a double boiler or microwave until smooth and shiny. Stir often to avoid burning.
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Dip the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off before placing them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This creates a delightful coating!
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Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature before serving. You can also chill them in the fridge for quicker setting!
Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the cookies for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time when those sweet cravings hit! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you prefer, shape the dough into balls and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the cherry filling separate to maintain the texture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out, make the indentations, fill with cherries, and bake as directed. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the same irresistible taste with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
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Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is fully softened at room temperature; this creates a creamier texture and better incorporation of sugar.
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Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix just until combined after adding flour and cocoa powder. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!
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Chill Dough (if needed): If the dough feels too soft to shape, chill it for 15-20 minutes. This prevents spreading and helps maintain their thumbprint shape.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should have firm edges but still feel soft in the center – they’ll continue to set as they cool.
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Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for dipping; it enhances the flavor of your Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies and ensures a smooth melt.
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Adjustment for Filling: If you’re using cherry pie filling, drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can mess with the texture of your finished cookies.
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of these charming cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy contrast, melting beautifully against the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors. It’s a match made in dessert heaven.
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Espresso or Coffee: The boldness of a hot cup complements the sweetness, making each bite of the cookie even more enjoyable, awakening your taste buds with its warm embrace.
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Cherry Sauce: A drizzle of homemade cherry sauce intensifies the fruity flavor, creating a beautiful presentation and adding a tartness that balances the chocolatey richness.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a generous dollop to each cookie, enhancing them with a creamy texture that will make your dessert feel indulgent.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the cookies before serving. The extra texture brings a burst of chocolate flavor with every bite of these delightful treats.
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Mint Tea: The refreshing qualities of mint tea serve as a palate cleanser, providing a soothing contrast that complements the sweetness of your cookies without overpowering them.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds brightness and color to your dessert table, while their light acidity pairs well with the rich chocolate and cherries.
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Milk or Almond Milk: A tall glass of cold milk or almond milk balances the sweetness, making them a simple yet perfect companion to your cookies, especially for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Chocolate Fondue: Turn your baking into an interactive experience with chocolate fondue, allowing guests to dip the thumbprint cookies for an extra indulgent twist that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled cookie, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, then warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked feel.
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delicious cookies your own!
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
- Fruit Variety: Swap out cherry filling for raspberry or blueberry to explore new fruity combinations and surprising flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a cookie that everyone can enjoy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warming spice that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to create a dairy-free treat.
- Minty Fresh: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract into the dough for cool, minty chocolate cookies that will refresh your palate.
- Coffee Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the dough to enrich the chocolate flavor with a delightful coffee punch.
- Crunchy Topping: After dipping the cookies in chocolate, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut flakes on top for a fun texture boost.
Let your imagination run wild with these variations, and don’t hesitate to put your unique spin on these delightful cookies!
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my cherries are ripe for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries for your Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies, look for ones that are plump and have a vibrant color. If using maraschino cherries, make sure they are not overly mushy or damaged. For cherry pie filling, avoid cans with dark spots, as they could indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
It’s very simple! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness. If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just let them warm slightly at room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and warm them slightly in the microwave if desired.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is quite sticky, don’t worry! It might need a little help. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes; this will help firm it up, making it easier to shape into balls and maintain that lovely thumbprint structure.
Are these cookies safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
It’s best to be cautious! These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies contain ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which are not safe for pets. If you’re serving to guests with allergies, always check for common allergens such as gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and tree nuts (if using specific brands). Opt for allergen-free chocolate if needed!
Irresistible Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and shape them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Press your thumb gently into the center of each cookie ball to create an indentation.
- Fill each indentation with a small amount of cherry pie filling or one maraschino cherry.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate and coconut oil together until smooth.
- Dip the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature before serving.