In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe.
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies: A Delightful Treat
Indulge in the perfect blend of rich chocolate and luscious cherries with these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies. Not only are they a visual delight, but their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the sweet-tart burst of cherry flavor make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is crafted to guide you step-by-step to cookie perfection.
Ingredients List
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful chocolate cherry thumbprint cookies:
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- 2 ounces Chocolate Almond Bark (or chocolate melting wafers)
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for an aromatic touch.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Incorporate the unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder into the butter mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until you have a well-combined dough.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1 ½ inch balls and place them on a greased baking sheet or a sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to press into the center of each ball, creating a well. Fill each well with two cherries from the cherry pie filling.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Drizzle
Melt the chocolate almond bark according to the package instructions. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Let the chocolate set before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per cookie:
- Calories: 216 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
- Sodium: 105 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 14 g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For health-conscious bakers, consider these alternatives: – Substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour to increase fiber content. – Use dark chocolate instead of chocolate almond bark for a richer, antioxidant-packed drizzle. – Opt for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to reduce sugar intake without sacrificing sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies as a delightful dessert at your next gathering, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday cookie trays or as a homemade gift wrapped in decorative packaging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on baking time to ensure the cookies remain soft and chewy.
- Inadequate Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to avoid uneven texture.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow cookies to cool completely for the chocolate drizzle to set properly.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. The combination of rich chocolate and juicy cherries offers a delightful taste and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re crafting these for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to impress.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling? Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but they should be pitted and slightly sweetened to balance the flavors.
2. What if I don’t have chocolate almond bark? You can substitute with chocolate chips or melting wafers for the drizzle.
3. How can I make these cookies gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour.
For more delicious recipes, check out our related posts on [FoodLovers.blog]. Happy baking!
Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and mix until combined. Add cocoa, salt, baking soda, baking powder and flour. Mix until combined.
- Roll dough into 1 ½ inch balls. Place on greased baking sheet or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press thumb into center of cookie to make a well. Place two cherries in each cookie.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. Cool on baking sheet 2 minutes. Remove to wire rack to finish cooling.
- Melt chocolate almond bark according to package directions. Drizzle over cookies. Let the chocolate set and serve immediately or store in an air tight container.
