Introduction to Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
Welcome to the delightful world of Chocolate Cherry Cookies from In Bloom Bakery! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up something special can feel overwhelming. These cookies are the perfect solution! They combine rich chocolate with sweet cherries, creating a treat that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a sweet moment for yourself, this recipe is quick and easy. Let’s dive into the joy of baking these scrumptious cookies together!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
These Chocolate Cherry Cookies are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike! They come together in just 27 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering. You’ll love how easy they are to make!
Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps create a soft texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener gives the cookies a lovely sweetness and helps them spread while baking.
- Brown sugar: Packed with moisture, brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor and chewiness to the cookies.
- Large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and provide structure, making your cookies fluffy and delicious.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, flour provides the necessary structure. It’s essential for that perfect cookie texture.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them a light and airy feel.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the sugars.
- Chocolate chips: The star of the show! Rich chocolate chips melt beautifully, creating gooey pockets of chocolate in every bite.
- Dried cherries: These add a burst of fruity sweetness and a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute fresh cherries when they’re in season for a juicier twist. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. The exact measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and use!
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these delicious Chocolate Cherry Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this step, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a light texture in your cookies. The air you incorporate while creaming helps them rise beautifully in the oven. It’s like giving your cookies a little boost!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Eggs are the glue that holds everything together, while vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed. This step is key to avoiding any salty bites or uneven rising in your cookies.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and chewy. Just mix until you don’t see any more flour, and you’re good to go!
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Dried Cherries
Now it’s time to fold in the chocolate chips and dried cherries. Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the dough. Folding helps maintain the light texture of the cookies while ensuring every bite is packed with chocolatey and fruity goodness.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. For uniform cookies, you can use a cookie scoop. It’s a game-changer!
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them! Every oven is different, and you want to catch them just before they’re done for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This helps them set before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Patience is key here! Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you wait. You’ve earned it!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s vital for even baking.
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them.
- Experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavors.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. You can use any size you have on hand.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick too!
- Baking sheets: Use ungreased sheets or line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl.
- Cookie scoop: Optional, but it helps shape uniform cookies. A tablespoon works just as well!
Variations for Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the chocolate and cherries.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a colorful and flavorful cookie.
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
- Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Present them on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh cherries for a pop of color.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Wrap them in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift!
FAQs about Chocolate Cherry Cookies – In Bloom Bakery
As you embark on your baking adventure with these Chocolate Cherry Cookies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way!
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can add a juicy burst of flavor. Just be sure to pit and chop them before folding them into the dough. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may add extra moisture, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly.
How do I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and bake as usual. It’s a great time-saver!
What can I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider adding a bit more flour next time. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can also help!
Can I substitute the sugars in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars! Coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can work, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Just be sure to use a similar measurement for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Chocolate Cherry Cookies from In Bloom Bakery is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with joy and warmth. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen is like a warm hug, inviting everyone to gather around. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet cherries, making them a treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies bring a little sweetness to your busy life. So, roll up your sleeves and let the baking magic begin!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cookies from In Bloom Bakery Delight!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious chocolate cherry cookies that combine rich chocolate flavor with sweet cherries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cherries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and dried cherries.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- For a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Feel free to substitute fresh cherries if in season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg