Black Forest cake is known for its decadent layers of chocolate, whipped cream, and cherries. If you love those flavors but want something quicker and easier, Black Forest cookies are the perfect answer. These cookies are rich, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips and tart cherries. Each bite brings a deep cocoa taste balanced with fruity sweetness, inspired by the famous German dessert.
This homemade cookie version delivers all the classic flavor in a portable, sharable form. Whether you’re baking for holidays, gifting, or simply craving a luxurious chocolate treat, this recipe checks all the boxes.
What Are Black Forest Cookies?
Black Forest cookies are chocolate-based cookies filled with dried or fresh cherries and loaded with chocolate chips or chunks. Some versions even include white chocolate or a drizzle of cream to echo the whipped topping in the original cake.
They are soft and chewy with a brownie-like texture, and the cherry pieces provide bursts of juicy, sweet-tart flavor. The result is a cookie that feels indulgent but is easy enough to make anytime.
Ingredients for Black Forest Cookies
These cookies use simple ingredients but pack a bold flavor. You can adjust the recipe depending on your preference for sweetness or texture.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/2 cup dried cherries or chopped fresh cherries
- Optional: 1 tablespoon milk (for moisture if needed)
If you’re using dried cherries, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up. Drain and pat dry before adding to the dough.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Black Forest Cookies
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers bakery-style results without complicated steps.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the cocoa is sifted well to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and white sugar until light and creamy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring slowly. Mix just until everything comes together into a thick dough. Do not overmix.
If the dough looks too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help bind it. The texture should be firm but scoopable.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries
Use a spatula to fold in the chocolate chips and chopped cherries. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough so every cookie gets a good mix.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each one. Flatten them slightly with your fingers or a spoon.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft. Let them rest on the tray for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once cooled, the cookies will have a soft center and chewy edges. You can drizzle them with melted white chocolate or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Storage Tips
Store Black Forest cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls and bake fresh whenever needed. They bake beautifully straight from the freezer, just add an extra minute to the baking time.
Variations You Can Try
- White Chocolate Chips for a creamy contrast
- Almond Extract instead of vanilla for added flavor depth
- Fresh cherries during cherry season for a more juicy texture
- Dark chocolate chunks for a richer, less sweet version
These cookies are versatile and can be customized to match your flavor preferences or the occasion.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Black Forest cookies are great for holiday cookie trays, special dinners, or afternoon treats. They look elegant and taste like a mini dessert in every bite. The combination of rich cocoa and tangy cherries makes them stand out in any cookie collection.
Whether you love the traditional Black Forest cake or just enjoy rich chocolate bakes, this cookie version is an easy and satisfying way to enjoy those flavors. Try this recipe once and it may just become one of your new favorites to bake and share.
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