Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies combine the deep, rich flavors of chocolate with the tart sweetness of cherry preserves to create a delightful cookie that’s sure to please. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are both simple to make and a joy to share. Their distinct thumbprint design gives them a homemade charm, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with friends and family.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 130
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies stand out due to their unique combination of flavors and textures. The buttery, chocolate cookie provides a tender base that contrasts beautifully with the chewy thickness of cherry preserves. Topped with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, these cookies not only look stunning but also offer a delicious burst of flavor with every bite. They are also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, making them an excellent addition to your baking repertoire.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Follow these simple steps to craft your own batch of chocolate cherry thumbprint cookies that will impress everyone who tries them.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cherry preserves
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, ensuring a tender cookie.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Forming the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in each ball, making enough space to hold your cherry preserves.
Step 5: Filling

Fill each indentation with cherry preserves, using about 1/2 teaspoon for each cookie. Don’t be shy—more filling means more flavor!
Step 6: Baking

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking!
Step 7: Drizzling

In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips over low heat or in the microwave until smooth. Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the baked cookies.
Step 8: Cooling

Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving, allowing the chocolate to set.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. They also make a fantastic addition to cookie platters and dessert tables at gatherings or holiday parties.

How to Store Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies

For a richer flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips.
Experiment with different fruit preserves—raspberry or blackberry can also work wonderfully with chocolate.
If the cookie dough seems too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling into balls to make handling easier.

Delicious Variations

Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the cookie dough for an added crunch.
Mint Chocolate: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the dough for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor.
Spiced Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough for an extra depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking.
How do I make these cookies dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free butter substitute and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
What can I use instead of cherry preserves?
Other fruit jams or preserves like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work well too.
Can I prep the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
How do I know if the cookies are done?
The cookies should be set around the edges but may look slightly underdone in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are a delicious and easy treat that combines rich chocolate with tangy cherry preserves. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies delight the senses with their beautiful appearance and mouthwatering flavors. Give this recipe a try, and delight your friends and family with a batch of these delightful cookies! Happy baking!