Name: Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature; 1 cup light brown sugar packed; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs room temperature; 2 Tablespoons Maraschino Cherry juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips divided; ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 Tablespoon shortening or coconut oil; 10 ounce jar Maraschino Cherries without stems

If you love the classic combo of chocolate and cherries, you’re going to adore this Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe. These cookies bring together a rich cocoa dough, juicy maraschino cherries, and a silky chocolate ganache that’s just *chef’s kiss* perfect. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and let’s dive in—I promise these cookies are worth every bite!

The image shows several round chocolate cookies arranged closely on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has three layers: the bottom is a rich brown, soft-textured cookie, the middle is a smooth dark chocolate filling with a glossy finish, and the top is a whole bright red cherry, shiny and centered. Additionally, there are thin, wavy lines of lighter brown chocolate drizzled over the whole cookie surface. Around the cookies, a few scattered chocolate chips are placed randomly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made so many chocolate cookie recipes, but these Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The way the cherry juice sneaks into the dough, paired with that luscious ganache center, makes these cookies feel extra special—perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Irresistibly Rich Flavor: The blend of cocoa and maraschino cherry juice creates a tender, flavorful cookie base that's anything but ordinary.
Luscious Ganache Center: A smooth, creamy chocolate ganache fills the middle, adding that decadent touch you didn’t know you needed.
Perfect Texture: Soft, slightly chewy cookies with a hint of gooey chocolate and juicy cherry balance every bite.
Show-Stopping Presentation: A neat maraschino cherry on top and a decorative chocolate drizzle make these cookies as pretty as they are delicious.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you start, a quick heads-up: quality ingredients make a world of difference here. I like to use good cocoa powder and fresh maraschino cherries for that authentic cherry flavor and beautiful texture. Also, having your eggs and butter at room temperature really helps the dough come together smoothly.

Flat lay of a small pile of all-purpose flour in a simple white ceramic bowl, a small white ceramic bowl filled with unsweetened cocoa powder, a white ceramic bowl containing light brown sugar, another white ceramic bowl with granulated sugar, two whole uncracked large brown eggs, a small white ceramic bowl holding glossy maraschino cherries without stems, a small white ceramic bowl with dark semi-sweet chocolate chips, a small white ceramic bowl with heavy whipping cream, a small white ceramic bowl containing golden softened unsalted butter, and a small white ceramic bowl with rich red maraschino cherry juice, all arranged symmetrically and balanced on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for our cookies, giving them structure with a tender crumb.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Baking soda and baking powder: These leavening agents ensure your cookies rise just right and get that perfect texture.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the chocolatey goodness.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Light brown sugar: Brings subtle molasses notes that complement the cocoa perfectly.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps give the cookies a slight crisp edge.
Eggs: Bind everything together, adding moisture and stability to the dough.
Maraschino cherry juice: Adds a subtle cherry tang that brightens the chocolate flavor.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For embedding melty chocolate pockets and making the ganache.
Heavy whipping cream: The secret to that ultra-smooth ganache.
Shortening or coconut oil: Helps create a perfect drizzle that sets smoothly.
Maraschino cherries without stems: The juicy centers and pretty toppings that make these cookies unforgettable.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to switch up ingredients for dietary preferences or add an extra pop of flavor, these cookies welcome your creative twist!

Dairy-Free Variation: I once swapped out the butter for coconut oil and used coconut milk cream instead of heavy cream for the ganache. The result was just as rich and luscious, perfect for those avoiding dairy!
Cherry Extract Swap: If maraschino cherry juice isn’t on hand, try replacing it with a teaspoon of cherry extract and a tablespoon of water. It keeps that sweet-tart cherry flavor shining through beautifully.
Seasonal Twist: During the holidays, I like to sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or even a hint of chili powder into the dough for a warm, cozy kick that pairs surprisingly well with the cherry and chocolate combo.
Nutty Upgrade: Adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the dough adds a wonderful crunch and nutty depth that complements the tender cocoa cookie and gooey ganache perfectly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

A white plate holds a group of thick, round chocolate cookies arranged closely, each with a shiny, bright red cherry placed in the center on top of a smooth, dark chocolate filling. The cookies have a slightly cracked, rich brown texture with thin streams of milk chocolate drizzled in a wavy pattern over their tops. Around the plate, several more fresh cherries with stems rest on the white marbled background along with a few dark chocolate chips. A white bowl filled with extra red cherries is visible in the upper left corner, and a woman’s hand is gently touching one cookie on the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven

First things first, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this little trick prevents any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Then, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready when your dough is. This sets you up for perfect baking without waiting.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Thoroughly

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. Make sure this is well combined—it’s the base flavor and texture for your tender cocoa cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars to Fluffy Perfection

In a large bowl, cream 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 cup packed light brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 to 4 minutes. Look for a smooth, fluffy texture—that’s your cue that air is incorporated and your cookies will have a lovely tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Cherry Juice, and Vanilla

Beat in 2 large room temperature eggs one at a time to keep the mixture smooth. Then mix in 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated. This adds that signature sweet and tart cherry essence that makes these cookies truly special.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry flour mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, mixing well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix—once it's combined, your dough will be rich, chocolatey, and ready for the next step.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies and Make a Ganache Indentation

Using a cookie scoop, portion out golf ball-sized dough, then roll smooth with your hands. Place each ball 2 to 3 inches apart on your lined baking sheet. Press your thumb gently into the center of each ball to create a small well—that’s where your luscious ganache and cherry will settle later.

Step 7: Bake Until Slightly Firm and Aromatic

Bake your cookies at 350°F for 11 minutes. You’re looking for them to spread just a bit and feel slightly firm to the touch. They might be soft when you take them out, but they’ll set perfectly as they cool.

Step 8: Prepare the Silky Chocolate Ganache

While your cookies cool, stir together ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and ¼ cup hot heavy whipping cream. Heat the cream in the microwave for roughly 20 seconds, then pour it over your chocolate chips and let it sit for a minute. Stir vigorously until smooth and glossy—that’s your ganache magic!

Step 9: Fill Cookies with Ganache and Cherry

Spoon about ½ teaspoon of the ganache into each cookie’s indentation. Then gently press one maraschino cherry into the center. This combo of fudgy ganache and bright cherry juice is totally irresistible.

Step 10: Drizzle with Melted Chocolate for That Extra WOW

For the final touch, melt the remaining ½ cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil. Heat 30 seconds, stir, then 15 seconds more or until silky smooth. Pour into a small ziplock bag, snip off a tiny corner, and drizzle fancy chocolate ribbons over each cookie. Let the drizzle set before you dig in or store.

Step 11: Store Properly and Savor

Store your Chocolate Cherry Cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—if they last that long!

Top Tip

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe are all about balance — rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and a silky ganache. Here are some trusted tips to help you get the best results and truly impress your taste buds.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. It helps the dough come together smoothly and gives your cookies that perfect tender crumb.
Indent the Dough Balls: Don’t skip the thumb indentation before baking—it creates the perfect little well for your luscious ganache filling. It’s a simple step that elevates the entire cookie experience.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag to avoid dense, dry cookies. This keeps your texture soft and tender.
Cool Before Filling: Let the cookies cool completely before adding ganache and cherries. Otherwise, the ganache might melt and run, taking away from that beautiful center.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe

A close-up image shows a woman's hand pressing down on a small, round, dark brown dough ball on a light brown parchment paper, placed on a metal baking tray with worn edges. Another dough ball, similar in color and texture, sits above the first one on the parchment paper. The dough balls have a rough, slightly cracked surface and are not yet baked. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, dust your cookies lightly with powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their chocolaty look. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds also add lovely contrast and texture. And if you want to amp up the cherry flavor, a drizzle of cherry glaze or a tiny maraschino cherry on top works beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert plate. A hot cup of coffee, black tea, or even a glass of rich red wine complements the deep chocolate and tart cherry notes perfectly. For brunch or afternoon tea, serve alongside fresh fruit or simple pastries to round out the spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Chocolate Cherry Cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the delicate texture of the cookies and keeps the ganache center luscious without getting too firm or melting.

Freezing

If you'd like to freeze these cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh ganache and cherries if desired.

Reheating

To warm up the cookies gently, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or place them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes. This softens the ganache and enhances the chocolatey aroma without compromising the cookie’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in this recipe?

Fresh cherries can be used but will alter the texture and flavor slightly. Maraschino cherries provide a unique sweetness and soft texture paired perfectly with the ganache. If using fresh cherries, pit and chop them finely and consider adding a small amount of cherry juice or extract for flavor boost.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use coconut milk cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the ganache. These swaps keep the cookies rich and moist while accommodating dairy-free diets.

Why is it important to use room temperature eggs and butter?

Room temperature eggs and butter mix more evenly into the batter, resulting in a smoother dough. Cold ingredients can cause your dough to be lumpy or affect the cookies’ texture, making them less tender.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before shaping and baking to make it easier to work with.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the combination of bittersweet chocolate and bright, tart cherries wrapped in a soft cookie, all topped with silky ganache. This Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe is one of those delightful treats that’s perfect to share with family, serve at holiday gatherings, or simply enjoy as your own little indulgence. It’s not just a cookie—it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. I hope you love baking and savoring these as much as I do!