Name: Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 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’re anything like me, the combination of chocolate and cherries feels like a tiny celebration in every bite. This Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe brings together a soft cocoa cookie, silky chocolate ganache, and a bright maraschino cherry that just makes your day a little sweeter.

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 still remember the first time I bit into one of these cookies—moist, deeply chocolaty, and that unexpected pop of cherry juice mixed with glossy ganache blew me away. It’s truly one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

Perfectly balanced flavors: The subtle tartness of maraschino cherry juice pairs beautifully with rich cocoa and creamy ganache.
Soft yet structured cookies: Tender cookie dough that holds a ganache-filled center, creating contrast in every bite.
Impressively indulgent yet approachable: No fancy techniques, just straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
Great for sharing: Makes 24 charming cookies, perfect for gift-giving or parties.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, I recommend gathering quality ingredients to get that rich, balanced flavor. Look for good cocoa powder and fresh maraschino cherry juice (don’t skimp on that—it really elevates the whole cookie!).

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 base for the cookie’s tender structure.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and that irresistible dark hue.
Baking soda, baking powder & salt: Essential for the perfect rise and flavor balance.
Unsalted butter (room temp): For rich, creamy texture and to help the cookies spread just right.
Light brown sugar: Brings moisture and subtle caramel notes.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight crisp edge to the cookie exterior.
Large eggs (room temp): Bind everything together and ensure tender crumb.
Maraschino cherry juice: The secret ingredient that delivers subtle cherry tang and moisture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors for a warm, rounded taste.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used both for the ganache center and drizzle topping.
Heavy whipping cream: Creates the smooth ganache with rich body.
Shortening or coconut oil: Helps keep the chocolate drizzle silky and shiny.
Maraschino cherries (no stems): Adds that classic cherry jewel on top of each cookie.

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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 tailor to your own taste. Feel free to play around with ingredients and presentation to make these cookies truly your own delicious creation!

Variation: For a dairy-free twist, I swapped the butter for vegan margarine and used coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. The cookies still had that rich, moist texture and the ganache was just as luscious—perfect for my vegan friends!
Cherry swap: One holiday season, I replaced the Maraschino cherry juice with cherry syrup I had on hand. Just be sure to reduce other sugar slightly; the cookies turned out beautifully with a deeper cherry flavor and a lovely sheen on top.
Seasonal touch: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle before it sets for a subtle, sophisticated flavor contrast. It’s my go-to when serving these at gatherings!
Nutty addition: Chop some toasted pecans or almonds and gently fold them into the dough for an added crunch and nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and cherry flavors.

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: Get your baking sheet ready

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step saves you from any sticky situations later on and makes cleanup a breeze. Set the sheet aside until the dough is ready to be scooped and baked.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F

Preheating the oven ensures the cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect tender crumb. While it warms, you can move on to mixing your ingredients—making the process efficient and stress-free.

Step 3: Combine all your dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, so each cookie bakes perfectly with balanced flavor and rise.

Step 4: Cream butter and sugars until fluffy

In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup light brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks smooth, light, and fluffy—this step adds airiness that results in tender cookies.

Step 5: Add eggs and flavorings

Beat in 2 room-temperature large eggs, 2 tablespoons of Maraschino cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This combination adds moisture and that unmistakable cherry twist, giving your cookies extra depth of flavor and a subtle fruitiness.

Step 6: Mix dry ingredients into the wet

Add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three increments. After each addition, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. You want it fully blended and silky smooth, but still tender enough to shape easily.

Step 7: Scoop and shape the dough

Using a cookie scoop, portion out golf-ball size dough balls. Roll each one smoothly between your palms before placing it about 2 to 3 inches apart on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This step sets the stage for even baking and a pretty cookie shape.

Step 8: Make an indentation for the ganache

Gently press your thumb into the center of each dough ball to create a shallow well. This little nest will hold just the right amount of luscious ganache and a cherry, so take your time to make them even in size.

Step 9: Bake until set but tender

Bake the cookies at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should have spread slightly and feel just firm to the touch. The edges may be set while the centers remain soft, which is perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth texture once cooled.

Step 10: Cool before adding the ganache

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the ganache from melting into the warm cookie and keeps your decoration neat and luscious.

Step 11: Make the silky chocolate ganache

Place ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small bowl. Heat ¼ cup heavy whipping cream in the microwave for 20 seconds until hot—watch carefully so it doesn’t boil. Pour the cream over the chocolate and let it rest for a minute, then stir vigorously until smooth and glossy. This creamy ganache is the star of your cookies!

Step 12: Fill each cookie with ganache and a cherry

Spoon about ½ teaspoon of ganache into each cookie’s indentation, spreading it evenly. Press one Maraschino cherry gently into the ganache center to finish. The contrast of the tart cherry and creamy ganache is simply irresistible.

Step 13: Prepare and drizzle with melted chocolate

Combine the remaining ½ cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil in a small dish. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between, then an additional 15 seconds until smooth. Transfer to a Ziplock bag, cut a tiny corner, and drizzle the chocolate artistically over the cookies. Let your creativity shine here!

Step 14: Let the drizzle set and enjoy

Allow the chocolate drizzle to set fully. Once dry to the touch, store your beautiful Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache in an airtight container at room temperature. These treats will stay fresh for up to 3 days—if they last that long!

Top Tip

These tips will help you make the best Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache Recipe every time, ensuring that the texture, flavor, and presentation are spot on.

Perfect Indentation: Use your thumb to gently press an indentation before baking so it holds the ganache nicely without disappearing during baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to get a smooth, creamy cookie dough that bakes evenly.
Smooth Ganache: Allow the heavy whipping cream and chocolate mixture to sit a full minute before stirring. This helps achieve that perfect glossy and silky ganache.
Drizzle Precision: Use a small Ziplock bag with a tiny cut at the corner for controlled chocolate drizzle; it makes the cookies look professionally finished.

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 extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle just before it sets to offset the sweetness beautifully. Fresh mint leaves or a small dusting of powdered sugar also complement the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair these Chocolate Cherry Cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. A warm cup of coffee or black tea balances the sweetness perfectly for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying during the week or sharing with friends.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and cooled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or Ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to maintain their tender texture.

Reheating

For that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, reheat cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This softens the ganache and brings out the chocolate’s richness beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen cherries instead of Maraschino cherries?

While frozen cherries can be used, Maraschino cherries provide a unique sweetness and juiciness that perfectly complements the chocolate ganache. If using frozen cherries, make sure they are thawed and drained well to avoid extra moisture in the cookies.

How can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Substitute unsalted butter with a vegan margarine or dairy-free butter alternative, and replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for the ganache. This swap keeps the cookies friendly for dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.

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

Using room temperature ingredients helps them blend better, creating a smooth dough and ensuring even baking. Cold ingredients can cause the dough to be lumpy and result in uneven cookie texture.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance and keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. When ready, portion and bake as directed. This is great for planning ahead for gatherings or special occasions.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cherry Cookies with Ganache are a true labor of love, combining the deep richness of cocoa with the bright tartness of cherries and the silky smoothness of chocolate ganache. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy baking and sharing as it’s brought me creating it. Happy baking and don’t forget to savor every decadent bite!