As I sift through the twinkling decorations and the scent of pine fills the air, I can’t help but think about the magic of holiday baking. This year, I’m bringing a delightful twist to our cookie box with Black Forest Christmas Cookies. These charming treats feature a tender cookie infused with rich chocolate and juicy cherries, making them a must-have for festive gatherings. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also serve as a fun centerpiece for sharing and gifting, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. So, why not transform your cookie platter into a showstopper? Join me as we embark on this scrumptious journey!
Why Are Black Forest Cookies So Special?
Unforgettable Flavors: The contrast of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a delightful explosion of taste that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Festive Appeal: These cookies are not just delicious; their beautiful presentation makes them perfect for any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.
Quick & Easy: Whipping up a batch is a breeze, taking just a few simple steps to achieve cookie perfection.
Versatile Treat: Customize your cookies by using different chocolate types or fruit preserves, making them uniquely yours. For more delightful holiday ideas, check out our Making Christmas Crack and Fun Christmas Candy recipes!
Memorable Gifts: Pack these in decorative tins for a thoughtful and tasty homemade gift that friends and family will love.
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; scoop carefully for accuracy.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa enhances color.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise slightly.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; fine sea salt distributes evenly throughout.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures moistness and richness; soften before creaming.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps the cookies spread; consider coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Light Brown Sugar – Infuses caramel undertones and adds moisture.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; use room temperature for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best result.
- Almond Extract – Introduces a nutty aroma; feel free to substitute with more vanilla if preferred.
For the Cherry Filling
- Maraschino Cherries – Provide a sweet, tangy burst; for a more natural taste, use dried cherries soaked in juice.
- Cherry Preserves – Intensifies the cherry flavor in the filling.
- Cornstarch – Thicken the cherry filling to prevent excess moisture.
- Kirsch – A cherry liqueur that deepens the flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
For the Ganache
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Richness and flavor booster for the ganache; choose high-quality for best results.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a smooth, luscious ganache; coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
- Unsalted Butter – Enriches the ganache further.
For Toppings
- White Chocolate Shavings, Sprinkles, or Powdered Sugar – Add a festive touch to your cookies, making the Black Forest Christmas Cookies truly shine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of light brown sugar until fluffy. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a cohesive dough forms.
Step 2: Chill Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions and flatten each into a disc shape. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up. This process is crucial for ensuring the Black Forest Christmas Cookies hold their shape while baking, preventing excess spreading.
Step 3: Make Cherry Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the cherry filling by simmering 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries, ¼ cup of cherry preserves, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely before using, ensuring a luscious filling for your cookies.
Step 4: Preheat Oven & Cut Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes, with some cookies featuring a center cut-out for a beautifully layered appearance. Arrange the cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as overbaking may lead to dry cookies. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat ½ cup of heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over 8 oz of chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl, letting it sit for a minute before stirring. Mix until smooth and glossy, then blend in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for added richness. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Assemble Cookies
Spread a layer of ganache on the non-cut-out cookies, followed by a generous spoonful of the cooled cherry filling. Carefully place the cookies with cut-out centers on top, gently pressing them down to create a sandwich effect. This assembly transforms your cookies into delightful Black Forest Christmas Cookies bursting with flavor.
Step 8: Decorate & Chill
To finish, drizzle any remaining ganache over the top of the assembled cookies, and sprinkle with white chocolate shavings, festive sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that holiday touch. Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the ganache properly, ensuring they’re ready for presentation or gifting.
Expert Tips for Black Forest Christmas Cookies
- Measure Carefully: Proper measurements are key to achieving perfect texture. Use a spoon to scoop flour instead of packing it directly from the bag.
- Chill Your Dough: A must for helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s essential for these Black Forest Christmas Cookies!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate and fresh cherries to enhance the flavors significantly. Cheaper ingredients can compromise the final results.
- Cool Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool before spreading; this prevents it from melting the cookie layers, preserving the perfect sandwich structure.
- Watch Your Bake Time: Cookies should be partially soft when removing them from the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking for a tender texture.
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make the Black Forest Christmas Cookies your own!
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Nut-Free: Omit almond extract and replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a delicious, nut-free version. Enjoy the same rich flavor without worry!
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil and heavy cream for coconut cream to create a dairy-free treat. The tropical aroma adds an unexpected, delightful twist!
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Different Chocolates: Experiment with dark or white chocolate for the ganache. Each variety brings a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the cookie experience further.
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Fruit Fed: Use raspberry or blackberry preserves in place of cherry for an exciting flavor change that will surprise your taste buds while keeping that lovely fruity note!
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Textural Charm: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the cookie. Nuts integrate beautifully, creating more depth in each bite.
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Spiced Wisps: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a warm spice note to enhance the holiday spirit. It creates a comforting aroma throughout your kitchen!
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Sandwich Surprise: Create sandwich cookies by adding a layer of buttercream frosting in between two cookies. This will turn your Black Forest treats into a delightful double-layer dessert!
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Slice & Bake: Roll the dough into a log, refrigerate it until firm, then slice and bake for perfectly round cookies. This method is convenient and ensures an even bake!
As you experiment with these variations, you’ll find that each tweak adds its own flair to the magical experience of holiday baking. For more inspiration, try whipping up some Crunchy Sugar Cookies or consider a festive alternative with Double Chocolate Pumpkin Cookies. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Black Forest Christmas Cookies?
Indulging in Black Forest Christmas Cookies is only the beginning of your delightful holiday experience. Let’s explore the perfect partners to create a festive feast!
- Rich Hot Chocolate: This warm cocoa enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cookies, creating a comforting duo for cozy nights by the fire.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ chewiness, providing a delightful palate cleanser between bites.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side with buttery creaminess that balances the dessert’s sweetness, perfect if you’re serving these cookies after a holiday meal.
- Peppermint Bark: A crunchy and minty treat, this classic offers a burst of festive flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherry notes of the cookies.
- Festive Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of citrus and berries can provide a vibrant contrast, cleansing the palate after indulging in cookies.
- Mulled Wine: The warm spices and sweetness complement the cookies wonderfully, making for a cheerful pairing that’ll keep spirits high during the festive season.
- Cheesecake Bites: These rich and tangy treats can elevate your dessert offerings, balancing the flavors with a creamy texture that appeals to sweet tooth lovers.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Double down on the festive vibes by serving these alongside your Black Forest cookies; the warm spices will harmonize with the chocolate and cherries.
- Spiced Ginger Tea: A soothing warm drink with hints of cinnamon and cloves that enhances the cookie flavors and adds an aromatic touch to your dessert spread.
Make Ahead Options
These Black Forest Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use, ensuring it retains its delicious flavor and texture. The cherry filling can also be made ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the chilled dough, cut the cookies, and bake them as directed. This way, you’ll have these mouthwatering cookies ready to impress with minimal effort on the day of serving!
How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store cookies in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week in an airtight container, preserving their delightful taste.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked warmth before serving.
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How should I select my cherries?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh or dried cherries soaked in cherry juice. If you’re using maraschino cherries, look for those without artificial colors to maintain a more natural taste.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Keep your assembled Black Forest Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze the cookie dough, wrap each disc tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. The dough can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting the cookies.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread excessively during baking, it could be due to warm dough or insufficient chilling. Be sure to chill the dough for the recommended 1 to 2 hours. If you’re still having issues, try adding a little extra flour (1-2 tablespoons) to the dough for more structure.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
If you want to avoid nuts, you can simply omit the almond extract and use more vanilla for flavor. The main ingredients in the Black Forest Christmas Cookies are safe for nut allergies, but always check your specific brand of ingredients to ensure there are no cross-contamination concerns.
Irresistible Black Forest Christmas Cookies You'll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a cohesive dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and flatten each into a disc shape. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
- While the dough chills, prepare the cherry filling by simmering chopped maraschino cherries, cherry preserves, and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool completely before using.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness and cut out shapes.
- Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden. Let cool before transferring to wire racks.
- To prepare the ganache, heat heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering, then pour over chopped semi-sweet chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Spread a layer of ganache on the non-cut-out cookies, followed by a spoonful of cherry filling. Place cookies with cut-out centers on top.
- Drizzle any remaining ganache over the assembled cookies and sprinkle with toppings. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
