Name: Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487232H37M15S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, melted; 1 cup dried cherries (or chopped maraschino cherries); Extra chocolate chips or chunks (optional, for mixing in)

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Chocolate Cherry Cookies are rich, fudgy, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor in every bite. I combine dark cocoa, melted chocolate, and chewy dried cherries to create a soft, decadent cookie that’s a little bit indulgent and a whole lot delicious. Whether for the holidays or a cozy night in, these cookies are one of my favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these cookies because they strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate and fruity brightness. The cherries add a pop of tart sweetness and a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, chocolatey cookie base. They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and always feel just a little more special than the usual chocolate chip.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, melted
Dried cherries (or chopped maraschino cherries)
Extra chocolate chips or chunks (optional, for mixing in)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, I cream the butter with both sugars until light and fluffy.
I add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
I melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler and mix it into the wet ingredients.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
I gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft, thick dough forms.
I fold in the dried cherries and extra chocolate chips if using.
I scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and slightly flatten each cookie.
I bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 18–20 cookies. It takes me around 20 minutes to prep and another 10–12 minutes to bake per batch.

Variations

Sometimes I use white chocolate chips for contrast or add chopped nuts for crunch. If I want a deeper cherry flavor, I soak the dried cherries in cherry juice or a splash of liqueur before adding them to the dough. I’ve also made a sandwich version with cherry cream cheese frosting in the middle for extra decadence.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—I just wrap them tightly and thaw before serving. To enjoy warm, I microwave one for about 10 seconds for that just-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

I don’t recommend fresh cherries because they add too much moisture. Dried or jarred (well-drained) cherries work best.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I chill the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. It helps the flavors deepen and the cookies hold their shape.

What kind of chocolate works best?

I like using semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor that balances the cherries well.

Can I use cherry extract for more flavor?

Absolutely. I add ¼ teaspoon of cherry extract along with the vanilla if I want to enhance the cherry notes.

Why are my cookies too flat?

That usually happens if the butter is too warm. I make sure to chill the dough slightly if it’s soft or sticky before baking.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Cookies are rich, chewy, and full of bold, irresistible flavor. The combination of deep cocoa and tart-sweet cherries creates a cookie that feels both classic and unique. Whether I’m baking for the holidays or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies always deliver that perfect balance of chocolate indulgence and fruity goodness.