Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies

If you adore cookies that combine fudgy, rich chocolate with the tangy burst of cherries, then these Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies are an absolute must-try. Packed with chewy texture and a visually stunning crinkled surface, they are perfect for any occasion when you want a special treat. These cookies offer a delightful mix of deep cocoa flavor and tart cherry notes in every bite, making them incredibly irresistible for chocolate lovers and cherry fans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delectably Chewy: Each cookie delivers the perfect balance of softness and chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.
• Vibrant Flavor Combo: Rich cocoa paired with tart cherries creates a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
• Striking Appearance: The signature crinkle crackled surface makes these cookies both gorgeous and fun to bake.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples with an exciting twist from dried cherries, making it easy and approachable.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make lovely homemade gifts that will impress friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to create chewy, fudgy Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies packed with flavor and beautiful color. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the ideal texture and taste.

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides the deep chocolate flavor essential to these cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft but firm bite.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the slight crispiness outside the crinkle surface.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel undertone.
• Butter: Imparts richness and enables a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs: Binds ingredients and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor for a well-rounded taste.
• Dried Cherries (unsweetened or sweetened): Give bursts of tartness that perfectly complement the chocolate.
• Powdered Sugar: For coating the dough balls to achieve the signature crinkle look.

Variations for Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adapting it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs is straightforward and fun, allowing you to personalize your Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies to suit any occasion or craving.

• Swap Cherries for Cranberries: Use dried cranberries instead for a similar tart flavor with a slightly different twist.
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans bring crunch and an extra nutty depth.
• Use Dark Chocolate Chips: Incorporate chocolate chips for gooey pockets of melty chocolate.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg to keep it plant-based.
• Infuse Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a warm or subtly spicy variation.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution and the right texture for your cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy for about 3-5 minutes. This aerates the dough and creates a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. This combination binds everything together and adds flavor depth.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet bowl, mixing on low speed or folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Fold in Dried Cherries

Gently fold the dried cherries evenly throughout the dough, making sure every cookie will have bursts of tangy fruit.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, which helps develop flavor and prevents spreading during baking.

Step 7: Shape and Coat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and generously coat each in powdered sugar to get that iconic crinkle look.

Step 8: Bake

Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Let the cookies rest for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies

• Chill is Key: Refrigerate dough to control spreading and enhance flavor concentration.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until incorporated to avoid tough cookies.
• Use Quality Cocoa: A good unsweetened cocoa powder makes a dramatic difference in flavor richness.
• Even Coating: Roll dough balls generously in powdered sugar for the best crackled effect.
• Watch Baking Time: Slight underbaking keeps cookies moist and fudgy inside.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra powdered sugar on top before serving for a snow-dusted look or add a few small fresh cherry halves around the plate for a pop of color and tartness contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a warm mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or cherry-infused herbal tea to balance the cookie’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack cookies in a rustic jar tied with a red ribbon for gifting, or serve them on a festive platter surrounded by fresh cherries and mint leaves for a stunning dessert table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies or raw dough balls; store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking or enjoying.

Reheating

Warm cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes to revive their softness and gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Fresh cherries have too much moisture and can alter the dough consistency, so dried cherries are best for maintaining the right texture in the crinkle cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The standard recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free without sacrificing texture.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least an hour before baking and coating them thoroughly with powdered sugar helps maintain their shape and creates those classic crinkles.

Can I substitute walnuts in this recipe?

Absolutely, adding chopped walnuts or pecans enhances crunch and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and cherries.

Are Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, their stunning appearance and delicious flavors make them an excellent thoughtful homemade gift for holidays and special occasions.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies are truly a delightful treat that combines the best of chewy, fudgy chocolate and the lively tang of cherries in every bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or family, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings. Don’t wait to try them out — your next favorite cookie experience awaits!

Related Posts

• Irresistible German Chocolate Poke Cake Recipe
• Salted Caramel Fudge Truffles
• Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Print