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Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

4.3 from 46 reviews

These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are rich, fudgy chocolate cookies with a delightful cherry center. Perfectly soft with a hint of cocoa and topped with sweet cherries, they make a delicious treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Flour
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

For Filling

  • 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp Lite Corn Syrup
  • 3 tbsp Milk
  • Approximately 3 cherries per cookie (amount not specified in original recipe but estimated based on instructions)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder until fully blended.
  2. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  3. Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, beating slowly until just combined into a dough.
  4. Form Cookies: Scoop a rounded tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
  5. Make Thumbprints: Press down on the center of each cookie dough ball with your thumb to create an indentation, then press again crossing over the first thumbprint to form an ‘X’ shape.
  6. Add Cherries: Spoon approximately 3 cherries into the center indentation of each cookie.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 9-10 minutes until set but still soft.
  8. Prepare Chocolate Filling (Optional Step): In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with 2 tbsp butter, corn syrup, and milk over low heat or in short microwave bursts, stirring frequently until smooth. Let cool slightly before drizzling or filling if desired.

Notes

  • Pressing the thumbprint twice to form an ‘X’ helps hold the cherry filling in place during baking.
  • Use fresh or preserved cherries based on preference. Maraschino cherries are a popular option.
  • Chocolate filling is optional; cookies can be delicious with just cherries.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: chocolate cherry thumbprint cookies, chocolate cookies, cherry cookies, thumbprint cookies, holiday cookies, chocolate cherry dessert