Introduction
There’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. These Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies with Mocha Chips are not just any cookies; they’re a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors that will make your taste buds sing! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie, where rich dark chocolate mingles with the boldness of mocha and the delightful pop of dried cherries. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1 cup mocha chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated, then stir in the fragrant vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, dried cherries, and mocha chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- 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 allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For a deeper flavor, consider chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, for an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the warm cookies just before they cool for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe calls for basic baking techniques that are easy to master. Creaming butter and sugar is key to achieving the perfect cookie texture, creating air pockets for a light and tender result. Folding in the chocolate and cherry additions gently ensures they are well-distributed without overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Fresh cherries can be used if you prefer, but be sure to pit and chop them into small pieces. Keep in mind this may alter the texture and moisture content of the cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them later!
Can I substitute the butter with a vegan alternative?
Absolutely! You can use a vegan butter substitute or even coconut oil to make these cookies vegan-friendly. Just ensure that your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well.
Conclusion
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies with Mocha Chips are not only a visual treat with their rich colors but also deliver an amazing taste experience with every bite. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, I’m sure they will bring joy and sweetness to your day. Grab a glass of milk, and enjoy every delicious bite!