Description
This indulgent Chocolate-Covered Cherry Cookies recipe offers a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures. Soft, buttery cookies infused with almond extract and a hint of optional red food coloring are studded with finely chopped maraschino cherries. Rolled in powdered sugar, these treats achieve a perfect balance of sweetness. The finishing touch involves a dip in melted semisweet chocolate, resulting in a heavenly combination of chocolate and cherry in every bite. Ideal for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened 
2 cups all-purpose flour 
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup 
1/4 teaspoon salt 
1 teaspoon almond extract 
Half teaspoon red food coloring (optional) 
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped 
1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling 
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the almond extract and red food coloring, if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them generously.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip the cooled cookies halfway into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.
- Allow the chocolate to harden before serving or storing.
- Enjoy these delightful chocolate-covered cherry cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Notes
For a burst of color, consider using red food coloring. Adjust sugar levels to personal taste. Ensure cherries are well-drained for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate-covered cherry cookies, cherry cookies, dessert recipe, chocolate cookies.