Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe

If you are looking for a decadent twist on your classic chocolate cookie, the Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine rich cocoa-infused cookies studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips and crowned with juicy maraschino cherries that burst with every bite. These cookies combine the deep, indulgent flavor of chocolate with the sweet, tart surprise of cherries, creating a delightful treat that feels both nostalgic and a little fancy. Whether it’s for a festive gathering, an afternoon snack, or just to satisfy that chocolate craving, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible cookies. Each item plays a crucial role, from providing that tender texture to balancing sweetness and depth of flavor.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure to the cookies.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich and intense chocolate flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to stay soft and chewy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the other flavors by balancing the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides moisture and a silky texture for perfect chewiness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookie’s classic crisp edges.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and cherry notes with warm, aromatic depth.
• 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the dough tender and easy to work with.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts to create gooey pockets of chocolate delight in every bite.
• 12 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry: These add the signature burst of cherry flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
• 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional): Perfect for melting and drizzling to add a pretty decorative touch and extra sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect baking temperature when your dough is ready. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat – this will keep your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step might seem simple, but it’s crucial; whisking these well distributes everything evenly so your cookies bake perfectly uniform in flavor and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is fluffy and light in color, about 3 to 4 minutes. This aeration process is what gives your cookies that tender crumb and slight lift.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. These will bind your ingredients and add a lovely aroma that complements the luscious chocolate and fruity cherry flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, alternating with the milk. This slow incorporation helps maintain the dough’s softness without overworking the flour, which can toughen cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This ensures each cookie will be bursting with melted chocolate gems.

Step 7: Shape Cookies and Add Cherries

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them spaced about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Press one maraschino cherry gently into the center of each dough ball for that signature cherry blossom effect.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers will stay soft – they firm up as they cool, giving you the perfect chewy texture. Let them cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before carefully transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: (Optional) Drizzle White Chocolate

If you want to add an extra special touch, melt 1/4 cup of white chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cookies. This adds beautiful contrast and an extra layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a charming presentation, dust your cookies lightly with powdered sugar. Fresh cherries or even a few whole chocolate chips placed around the serving platter add a festive flair that guests will love.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of milk, a steaming cup of coffee, or a mug of rich hot chocolate. The drinks complement the moist, chocolaty cookie and refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies in a jar tied with a pretty ribbon as a thoughtful homemade gift. Or serve them on a decorative plate with small bowls of fresh cherries and melted chocolate sauce on the side for a DIY dipping experience that’s both playful and irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them nicely soft and allows the chocolate and cherry flavors to meld even more deliciously.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies easily by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for fresh-baked yumminess any time you want.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling, warm cookies for about 10 seconds in the microwave or 3 minutes in a 300°F oven. This melts the chocolate chips again and softens the cookie just right without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries are delicious, but since they contain more moisture, they may cause the cookies to spread more and become softer. If you want to use fresh cherries, pit and dry them well, or consider slightly reducing the added milk in the recipe.

Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Replace butter with a solid plant-based butter alternative, use a flax or chia egg substitute, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. The result won’t be identical but still wonderfully tasty.

Why does the recipe call for milk in the dough?

Milk adds moisture which keeps the dough soft and helps dissolve sugar more evenly. This ensures the cookies bake up tender rather than dry or crumbly.

Can I skip the white chocolate drizzle?

Absolutely! The white chocolate drizzle is purely optional and meant to add a pretty, sweet finish. The cookies are delightful on their own, rich with chocolate and cherry goodness.

How do I prevent cherries from making the cookies soggy?

Drain and pat the maraschino cherries dry before placing them on the cookie dough. This removes excess syrup which can introduce too much moisture, helping your cookies maintain their perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe enough, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun, rewarding treat to try. These cookies bring together chocolate and cherry so beautifully, they might just become your new favorite go-to dessert. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to spread some serious cookie joy with every bite!

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