Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

These Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies are a perfect marriage of chocolate and cherry, giving you the experience of a chocolate-covered cherry in cookie form. With their soft, fudgy chocolate base, smooth ganache topping, and bright pop of a maraschino cherry, these cookies are a delightful treat for holidays, parties, or anytime indulgence. Beloved by chocolate and cherry enthusiasts alike, this dessert showcases the timeless love story between these two flavors.

History and Formation

Thumbprint cookies, originally called “Hallongrotta” in Sweden (which translates to “raspberry cave”), date back to the 1800s. Traditionally made with a shortbread base and filled with fruit jam, they have evolved worldwide with variations that include chocolates, nuts, and other unique flavors. The Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookie is a modern twist, celebrating the classic pairing of chocolate and cherry—a duo cherished in desserts since the invention of chocolate-covered cherries in the 1920s.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Ganache:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream

Topping:

24 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
Using your thumb (or the back of a rounded teaspoon), gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie. Be careful not to press all the way through.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Spoon or pipe the ganache into the center of each cookie, filling the indentation.
Press a maraschino cherry gently into the center of the ganache, ensuring it sticks.
Let the cookies sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the ganache sets.

Tips and Methods for Perfection

Chill the Dough: This step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Dry the Cherries: Thoroughly patting the maraschino cherries dry ensures they won’t make the ganache runny or overly wet.
Ganache Consistency: If the ganache feels too runny, let it cool for a few minutes to thicken before filling the cookies.
Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Chocolate Cherry Lovers’ Delight

These cookies are a surefire hit among chocolate and cherry lovers. The richness of the chocolate cookie is balanced by the tangy sweetness of the maraschino cherry, while the ganache brings a silky finish that ties everything together. Whether shared at gatherings or enjoyed solo with a cup of coffee, these cookies make every moment special.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Thumbprint Cookies represent the perfect harmony between two beloved flavors. Their rich texture, visual appeal, and balanced taste make them a treat that transcends occasions. Bake these delightful cookies and let the timeless combination of chocolate and cherries sweep you and your loved ones off your feet!