Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies
Black Forest Cookie: Cherry Filled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies in 30 Minutes is an indulgent treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with the tartness of cherries. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. With an easy-to-follow process that takes just thirty minutes from start to finish, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a kitchen beginner, or just someone looking to whip up a quick dessert, this recipe is adaptable and rewarding.
What Is Black Forest Cookie: Cherry Filled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies in 30 Minutes?
These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Black Forest cake. They are made with chocolate dough that features a gooey cherry filling, all dressed up in a signature crinkle pattern. The texture is a beautiful balance of soft and chewy with bursts of rich cherry in every bite. This recipe is designed for those who enjoy quick, homemade desserts that deliver amazing flavor without much hassle.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. The combination of chocolate and cherry evokes the comforting nostalgia of a traditional Black Forest cake but is made accessible in cookie form. Plus, the quick preparation time means you won’t have to sacrifice valuable time or effort. Imagine serving warm, freshly baked cookies alongside your favorite beverage; the mingling aromas of chocolate and cherries will be enough to bring smiles all around. This dish beautifully caters not only to your taste buds but also to your tight schedule.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, providing structure.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Cocoa powder infuses your cookies with rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter keeps the cookies moist and adds flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sugar sweetens the dough and helps create a crinkle texture.
- 1 large egg: The egg acts as a binder to hold the cookies together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds warmth that amplifies the chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling: This will be your sweet and tart surprise inside your cookies.
How to Make
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until fully combined. Setting them aside allows the dry ingredients to marry and ensures a smoother cookie dough.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, leading to a lovely texture in your cookies.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. The warmth of the butter helps to meld these ingredients together smoothly.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. When the dough starts to form a ball, you’re ready to move on.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, take a generous tablespoon of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place about a teaspoon of cherry pie filling in the center, then fold the dough over to encase the filling. Roll it into a ball shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Once all the cookies are on the sheet, bake them in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The edges should be set, and the centers will appear slightly soft. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps finish the cooking process and allows the texture to stabilize.
Variations & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.
Nutty Addition: For a nutty twist, consider folding in chopped walnuts or almonds into the cookie dough. This will add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Extra Chocolate: If you are a chocolate lover, add chocolate chips into the dough along with the cherry filling. This will elevate the chocolate flavor and make the cookies even more decadent.
Different Fillings: While cherry pie filling is classic, you can experiment with other fruit fillings such as raspberry or blueberry. Each variety brings a different fruity note and keeps things exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One pertinent mistake is overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dense cookie, robbing it of the soft, chewy texture that you desire. Always mix just until combined.
Another issue could be using cold butter. Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugar, leading to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for the best results.
A frequent mistake is not allowing the cookies to cool adequately before transferring them from the baking sheet. Rushing this step can cause the cookies to crumble prematurely. A mild cooling period can help set their form.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the fully cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to three months.
To reheat, simply place cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their lovely texture as if they were just baked, and the cherry filling will warm up deliciously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but they will need to be pitted and chopped. Keep in mind that fresh cherries are juicier, so adjust the amount to prevent the cookie from becoming too runny. A quarter cup of chopped cherries should suffice.
Can these cookies be made in advance for an event?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid drying out. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough onto the baking sheet and proceed as instructed.
How can I alter the sweetness of these cookies?
If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar by up to a quarter cup. Alternatively, using a sugar substitute could work, but make sure it’s suitable for baking to achieve the desired texture.
Are these cookies suitable for mailing?
Yes, these cookies hold up well for mailing. Just ensure they are completely cooled before packing them tightly in a container. Use parchment paper to separate layers to keep them fresh and prevent sticking during transit.
Can I decorate these cookies?
You can certainly decorate them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate after they cool. Adding visual flair can make your cookies more appealing for special occasions.
Conclusion: Treat yourself to these delectable Black Forest Cookie: Cherry Filled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Their rich chocolate flavor, combined with a sweet cherry filling, creates a delightful experience. Easy to make in just thirty minutes, they are perfect for any occasion and will impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy with friends, family, or all to yourself!
