The marriage of chocolate and cherry is nothing short of iconic, and these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are a perfect testament to that sweet harmony. With a buttery cocoa base, each cookie cradles a vibrant maraschino cherry under a drizzle of rich, cherry-infused chocolate fudge.
Whether you’re prepping for a holiday cookie swap or just indulging in a chocolate craving, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Their glossy chocolate tops and pop of cherry color make them irresistible on any dessert table, and the flavor combo will keep everyone coming back for more.
Full Recipe:
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1 cup white sugar
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 egg
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1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon baking powder
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1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and juice reserved
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1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
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1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
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Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
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Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb.
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Place a maraschino cherry in each indentation.
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In a small saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk. Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of reserved cherry juice.
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Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the chocolate mixture over each cherry, covering it completely.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on wire racks.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 32 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per cookie | Servings: 36 cookies
The Irresistible Charm of Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies
Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are a timeless treat that blends the rich depth of chocolate with the tart, sweet burst of maraschino cherries. Often associated with holiday baking traditions, these cookies have a nostalgic quality that evokes memories of family kitchens, festive gatherings, and sweet indulgences. But don’t let the seasonal associations limit you—these cookies are worthy of baking and enjoying year-round.
What makes these cookies so unique is the combination of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. They strike a perfect balance: the cookie base is soft and fudgy, the cherry adds a burst of juicy sweetness, and the glossy chocolate topping wraps everything in a decadent finish. With just one bite, you’re taken through layers of flavor that are both comforting and luxurious.
The Origins of Chocolate and Cherry as a Dessert Duo
The chocolate and cherry pairing isn’t new—it has been used in everything from Black Forest cakes to chocolate cherry cordials. The contrast between tart fruit and smooth chocolate creates a flavor profile that is multidimensional and crowd-pleasing.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies borrow from these traditions while taking a creative leap into handheld dessert territory. Unlike cakes or truffles, these cookies are portable, easy to store, and perfect for sharing. That’s one reason they’ve become a favorite in holiday cookie exchanges and dessert platters—they look as good as they taste and travel well, too.
A Cookie That’s More Than Just a Dessert
Beyond their taste and appearance, these cookies often carry emotional significance. Many home bakers have cherished this recipe for decades, often handed down from one generation to the next. They’re frequently baked in batches and gifted in festive tins, making them a sweet gesture during the holidays or on special occasions like Valentine’s Day or birthdays.
For some, making Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies is a family tradition, with kids helping to roll the dough or press cherries into the center. It’s an opportunity to bond, teach baking basics, and create lifelong memories—all wrapped into one delightful recipe.
Texture Matters: Why This Cookie is So Satisfying
One of the standout features of this cookie is its texture. The base is a fudgy, brownie-like cookie with just the right amount of chewiness. Then comes the surprise center—a whole maraschino cherry—providing a juicy contrast. Finally, the cherry is topped with a velvety, chocolatey glaze made from melted chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
The triple-layered experience—soft base, fruity center, and creamy top—makes each bite satisfying. It’s a sensory journey that starts with a tender crumb and ends with a silky chocolate finish, often leaving a smile on the face of anyone who tastes it.
Versatility in Presentation and Ingredients
Another reason these cookies are so beloved is their versatility. While the classic recipe calls for maraschino cherries and a chocolate glaze, creative bakers often experiment with variations:
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Dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a more intense cocoa flavor.
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Almond extract in place of vanilla for a nuttier aroma.
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Chopped nuts sprinkled on top before baking for crunch and added flavor.
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White chocolate drizzle for a striking visual contrast and a creamy taste.
You can also play with the presentation. For instance, piping the glaze in swirls instead of spooning it can elevate the cookies’ appearance, making them look bakery-worthy.
Perfect for Gifting and Celebrations
Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies make an excellent homemade gift. Their festive look and unique flavor profile set them apart from more common cookies. They hold up well in gift boxes or cellophane bags and can be customized with tags, ribbons, or decorative tins.
Because they freeze well, you can also prepare them in advance. This makes them ideal for busy holiday seasons or for events where you want to offer a homemade treat but don’t have time to bake at the last minute.
They are especially popular for:
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Christmas cookie trays
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Valentine’s Day treats
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Anniversary or birthday gifts
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Bake sales and potlucks
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Wedding favors or shower desserts
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
After baking and cooling, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigeration is a great option—they stay fresh for about a week when chilled.
For long-term storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months without losing their texture or flavor. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Baking With Kids and Family
These cookies are a fantastic project for baking with children. The steps are simple, and kids love placing the cherries into the dough or helping to drizzle the chocolate sauce. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that results in something delicious everyone can enjoy.
You can also turn it into a teachable moment—measuring ingredients, mixing dough, and following steps all help kids develop important kitchen skills. Plus, the sense of accomplishment they’ll feel when the cookies come out of the oven is priceless.
Make-Ahead Strategy for Entertaining
If you’re hosting a party or a holiday gathering, Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are a smart choice. You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours. You can also prepare the glaze ahead of time and reheat it gently before use.
This flexibility allows you to focus on other aspects of your event while still offering an impressive homemade dessert. Just pop them in the oven shortly before guests arrive, and your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of chocolate and cherries.
Pairing Suggestions for the Ultimate Experience
Pairing desserts can elevate a simple cookie into a full culinary experience. With Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies, here are a few beverage and flavor pairings to consider:
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Coffee or espresso: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies.
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Red wine: A cherry-forward Pinot Noir or Merlot enhances the fruit notes.
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Milk or hot cocoa: For a cozy, family-friendly option.
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Cherry compote or fresh berries: For plating and added elegance.
They also work well as part of a dessert board, paired with truffles, fudge, and other chocolate-based goodies.
Conclusion: A Timeless Treat That Never Fails to Delight
Chocolate Covered Cherry Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they are a celebration of flavor, tradition, and creativity. With their irresistible blend of chocolate richness and cherry sweetness, they offer a gourmet touch in an easy-to-make format. Whether you’re baking for a special event, making a gift, or just indulging in a personal favorite, these cookies never disappoint.
Their visual appeal, crowd-pleasing flavor, and make-ahead convenience make them a go-to recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. So the next time you’re craving something special, skip the bakery and make a batch of these homemade delights. You’ll be glad you did—and so will anyone lucky enough to get a bite.
