Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies

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Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a luxurious blend of rich cocoa and sweet, juicy cherries that create a perfect harmony of flavors. These cookies have a soft, brownie-like texture with bursts of chewy cherries in every bite. The addition of melted chocolate and cocoa powder makes them decadently rich, while the cherries add a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

They’re a wonderful treat for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any time you crave a chocolate fix with something a little extra special. The dough comes together easily, and the aroma while baking is simply irresistible — deep chocolate with hints of fruit. Pair them with a glass of milk, coffee, or red wine for an indulgent dessert experience.

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies

  • Soft, chewy, and full of rich chocolate flavor.

  • The cherries add a delightful texture and fruity contrast.

  • Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.

  • Ideal for holiday cookie platters or gifts.

  • Freezes beautifully, so you can make them ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • 1/2 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate (cooled slightly)

  • 3/4 cup dried cherries (or chopped maraschino cherries, drained well)

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

  2. Combine dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

  3. Cream butter and sugars. In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

  4. Add wet ingredients. Mix in egg, vanilla, and milk. Stir in melted chocolate until smooth.

  5. Combine and fold. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold in dried cherries and mini chocolate chips.

  6. Shape and bake. Drop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the prepared sheets. Bake 9–11 minutes, until the edges are set but centers are still soft.

  7. Cool. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Results 

  • Don’t overbake — they’ll firm up as they cool.

  • Use high-quality cocoa and chocolate for a deeper flavor.

  • For extra indulgence, drizzle cooled cookies with melted white chocolate.

  • Dried cherries add chewiness; maraschino cherries make them sweeter and softer.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.

  • Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a more intense taste.

  • Mix in a few drops of cherry extract to heighten the flavor.

  • Replace cherries with dried cranberries for a tart twist.

What to Serve With Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies

These cookies pair perfectly with hot coffee, milk, or dessert wine. They also make a beautiful addition to cookie platters or gift boxes during holidays.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Gooey Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving. No reheating needed — they’re best enjoyed at room temperature.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries?
Only if you chop and dry them first; excess moisture will alter the texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, these scale well for large batches.

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, portion it into balls and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1 minute to the baking time.

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