Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!) are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. These cookies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries, creating an irresistible combination. With their crackly tops and chewy centers, they’re not just visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether for holiday celebrations or cozy family moments, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: These cookies come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute baking.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a fudgy bite packed with flavor.
- Eye-Catching Appearance: Their distinctive crackly tops add a festive touch to your dessert table.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, parties, or simply as an afternoon snack.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will make all the difference in achieving those perfect crinkle tops!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sifter
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Sifter: Helps incorporate air into dry ingredients, ensuring a lighter texture in your cookies.
- Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly and prevents sogginess from steam.
Ingredients
For Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!), you will need:
For the Dough
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour, or gluten-free 1:1 blend
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Mix-ins
- ½ cup dried cherries, chopped (or freeze-dried cherries)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips, optional
For Rolling
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time. After each addition, stir in vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined to maintain texture.
Step 4: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Stir in chopped cherries and mini chocolate chips if you choose to use them.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and chill it in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crinkle top.
Step 6: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough using a cookie scoop. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Step 8: Bake
Place the rolled cookie balls on prepared trays with some space between them as they will spread slightly. Bake for about 9–11 minutes or until the tops are cracked while ensuring that centers remain soft.
Step 9: Cool Down
Let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes; they will firm up as they cool down. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies!
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies are perfect for any festive occasion. Their rich, fudgy texture and crackly tops make them a delightful treat. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Milk
- Pair each cookie with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the chocolate flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delicious dessert that’s both chewy and creamy.
Dust with Extra Powdered Sugar
- For an elegant touch, dust the tops with additional powdered sugar just before serving. It adds extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Gift Packaging
- Present these cookies in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season. They’re sure to impress friends and family!
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of your favorite hot beverages.
Create a Cookie Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a festive platter along with other holiday treats for an eye-catching dessert table centerpiece.
How to Perfect Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
Perfecting your Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies can take them from great to extraordinary. Here are some tips to achieve that ideal texture and flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 1–2 hours is crucial for achieving those beautiful crinkles on top.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips to enhance the overall flavor of your cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
- Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be soft in the center but have cracked tops when done.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the tray briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without becoming too hard.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can create a delightful spread. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness that balances out the sweetness of the cookies. - Cheese Platter
Include a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that pairs well with chocolate. - Nut Mix
A crunchy nut mix provides a delightful textural contrast and complements the soft chewiness of the cookies. - Yogurt Parfaits
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light option that contrasts nicely with rich chocolate flavors. - Hot Cocoa Bar
Set up a hot cocoa station complete with marshmallows and whipped cream for a cozy drink pairing perfect for winter gatherings. - Spiced Chai Latte
This warm beverage offers aromatic spices that enhance the flavors of chocolate and cherry beautifully. - Mini Cupcakes
Serve small cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or cherry for an appealing dessert selection alongside your cookies. - Popcorn Mix
Create a sweet popcorn mix drizzled with chocolate or sprinkled with dried cherries as an easy finger food option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is essential for creating those beautiful crackly tops. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1-2 hours.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you include the right amounts of each ingredient.
- Overmixing the batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, fudgy ones.
- Using stale cherries or chocolate chips: Fresh ingredients make a difference in flavor and texture. Always check that your dried cherries and chocolate chips are fresh.
- Baking at incorrect temperatures: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the right temperature. Baking at too high or too low can affect cookie texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
- Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies: The Festive, Fudgy Holiday Showstopper (Crackly Tops, Cherry Swirls & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds per cookie until warm, being careful not to overdo it.
- Stovetop: Place a pan on low heat and cover with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies.
How do I get perfect crackly tops on my Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies?
To achieve those iconic crackly tops, make sure to chill your dough adequately before baking. This helps create that lovely texture.
Can I use other types of fruit instead of cherries?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries for unique flavors.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for cracks on top, and ensure the centers remain soft but set. They will firm up as they cool on the baking tray.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
You can use gluten-free 1:1 flour blends if you need a gluten-free option without compromising texture.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies are not just festive; they’re versatile and customizable! You can add different mix-ins like nuts or other dried fruits to suit your taste. These fudgy treats are sure to impress during holiday gatherings or any occasion. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and cherry!
Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies
Chocolate Cherry Crinkle Cookies are the perfect festive treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and delightful bursts of cherry, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Their signature crackly tops and chewy centers create a visually stunning presentation, making them an ideal sweet for holiday gatherings or cozy family moments. Plus, they can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying baking project!
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (or coconut oil), melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup dried cherries, chopped
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt; fold gently into the mixture.
- Stir in chopped cherries and optional chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough for 1–2 hours for optimal texture.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, roll in powdered sugar, and place on baking sheets.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes until tops are cracked but centers remain soft.
- Cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For extra flavor variations, consider adding nuts or swapping out cherries for other dried fruits like cranberries. Be mindful not to overmix the dough to keep your cookies tender.