Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

If you’re craving a cookie that’s decadently chocolatey with a surprise burst of cherry flavor, you’re going to love what I’m about to share. This Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe is one of those gems I discovered after trying countless combos – it’s moist, rich, and that smooth cherry-infused ganache on top just takes it over the edge. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to cookie for any special occasion or just a cozy night in.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve chosen ingredients that not only complement each other beautifully but also create textures and flavor layers – from tender chocolaty cookies to that luscious ganache topping. When picking your cherry preserves, I recommend a high-quality brand with natural fruit chunks for that authentic burst.

• All-purpose flour: Spoon and level it for accuracy, so your cookies stay tender and don’t turn out dry.
• Dutch-process cocoa powder: Gives a deep, rich chocolate flavor without bitterness; definitely worth the splurge here.
• Baking powder: Just enough to help the cookies rise a bit, keeping them soft and chewy.
• Sea salt: Balances all the sweetness—don’t skip it!
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temp for smooth creaming with the sugars.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and subtle caramel notes to these cookies.
• Granulated white sugar: Works with brown sugar to create the right texture and sweetness.
• Egg yolks: Use room temperature for best mixing and richness.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors and harmonizes the chocolate and cherries.
• Chocolate (for ganache): I use a dark chocolate that already has cherries infused—it really boosts the cherry flavor.
• Heavy cream: Warmed gently to melt the chocolate perfectly for that silky ganache.
• Cherry preserves: Adds natural sweetness and fruitiness to the ganache, making these cookies absolutely unforgettable.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your taste or dietary needs. Feel free to play around and make it your own – that’s how recipes become family favorites!

• Substitute fresh cherries: When cherry preserves aren’t available, finely chopped fresh or frozen cherries can be gently cooked down with a little sugar to make your own topping – I tried this once, and it gave an even fresher flavor!
• Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream: For a dairy-free version, swap out the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives, and choose a dairy-free chocolate. The texture is just as satisfying.
• Add chopped nuts: I sometimes toss in toasted almonds or pecans for an added crunch that the family totally digs.
• Try different chocolate types: Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix can work in the ganache for a sweeter or more mellow twist.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your flour, Dutch-process cocoa powder, sea salt, and baking powder. It’s a small step but key to evenly distribute the leavening and cocoa so your cookies bake up with consistent flavor and texture. Set this aside while you cream your butter and sugars.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar on high speed until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes if you have a mixer. The creaming incorporates air, helping your cookies rise just right and get that soft texture that feels irresistible.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next up, add your egg yolks and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is usually about 1-2 minutes. This step enriches your cookie dough and brings a beautiful golden tint that’s so inviting.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add your flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. You don’t want to overmix here because that can lead to tough cookies. If you see streaks of flour, gently fold them in rather than beating aggressively.

Step 5: Scoop, Shape, and Chill

Using a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop, portion the dough into 32 balls. Right after rolling each ball, press down with a ¼ teaspoon to make a small indent—this is where the ganache will go later, and it keeps your cookies from puffing up too much. Now, chill the dough for one full hour; this step helps the cookies hold their shape and develop flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) about 15 minutes before baking. Arrange 8 cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 9-11 minutes—I usually aim for 10 because they come out perfectly soft but firm enough to hold their shape. When they come hot from the oven, gently press down on the indents again with your ¼ tsp and give each cookie a quick roll with a cookie cutter for a neat, round look.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Cherry Ganache

While the cookies cool, get the ganache ready by placing chopped chocolate in a bowl. Warm the heavy cream just until it’s about to boil—watch it carefully so it doesn’t scorch. Pour the cream over the chocolate, let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Stir in the cherry preserves and mix until everything is nicely combined. This ganache is thick but creamy with a luscious cherry kick.

Step 8: Assemble and Chill

Once cookies have cooled completely, spoon about 1 teaspoon of the ganache into each cookie’s indent. Don’t be shy if you want to add more for an extra indulgent treat! Pop the cookies into the fridge for 10-15 minutes so the ganache firms up just right.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing these off with a quick dusting of powdered sugar or a tiny cherry on top of the ganache when serving to make them look extra festive. Sometimes I even sprinkle a few finely chopped toasted almonds for contrast – it’s a simple touch but makes a big impression.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of strong coffee or chai tea. The rich chocolate and bright cherry flavors mesh beautifully with creamy or spiced beverages, creating an indulgent treat time you’ll savor.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like serving these cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh cherries and dark chocolate shards. Layering the cookies neatly in cupcake liners works great for gifting. If it’s a holiday gathering, arranging them in the shape of a wreath is always a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After chilling the ganache, store your cookies in an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll keep beautifully for up to three days. I usually layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They remain soft, and the ganache keeps its velvety texture.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! After assembling and chilling, lay cookies flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment and flash freeze for about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to two months. I love having these ready for unexpected guests or last-minute dessert cravings.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you’d like the ganache a bit softer, let them sit at room temp for 15-20 minutes before eating. You can also warm them briefly (10-15 seconds) in the microwave, but be careful not to melt the ganache completely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe, I was immediately hooked — they’re that perfect blend of deep chocolate richness brightened up by cherries. Whether it’s for a holiday treat, an impressive bake sale item, or just your own afternoon snack, I highly recommend giving this one a shot. You’ll enjoy the process (and trust me, the results!) as much as I do sharing it with you here.

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