Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with these Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that offers a marvelous combination of rich chocolate and tart cherry. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, a cozy night in, or simply to satisfy that sweet craving. Let’s dive into the ingredients and baking instructions, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the aromatic scent of freshly baked goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 2 dozen cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure your cookies bake evenly and develop that lovely golden brown edge.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs, beating the mixture until everything is well combined and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and cherry pie filling, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. The combination of these ingredients will create a delightful burst of flavor in every bite!
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie for expansion.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This patience will reward you with perfectly chewy cookies!
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies right before baking. This contrast will enhance that sweet and slightly tangy cherry taste. Additionally, if you want a thicker cookie, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheets. The result will be even chewier cookies!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves the classic creaming method, which works best for providing a soft texture to your cookies. By creaming the butter and sugars together, you incorporate air into the mixture, leading to a lighter cookie. Be sure to fold gently when adding the chocolate chips and cherry pie filling, as this helps maintain the airiness of the dough while ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Just make sure to chop the cherries and squeeze out any excess juice so your cookies don’t turn out too soggy.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer-lasting enjoyment!
Conclusion
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors that blend beautifully in each mouthful. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, each bite brings a smile. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and sweet aromas!