Name: Black Forest Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup (161g) brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/3 cups (160g) all purpose flour; 1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup drained & finely chopped maraschino cherries, plus extra for garnish; 3/4 cup (129g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus extra for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you adore rich chocolate paired with bursts of fruity sweetness, this Black Forest Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies perfectly capture the beloved flavors of the classic Black Forest cake but with the irresistible convenience of a handheld treat. Soft, chewy, and studded with maraschino cherries and chocolate chips, they are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and delight your taste buds every single time you take a bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal baking tray with a white silicone mat on top. On the mat, there are small rough round cookie dough balls arranged in rows. The dough is dark brown, almost black, with darker chocolate chips embedded in it. Bright red small pieces are mixed throughout and on top of the dark dough, creating a sharp color contrast. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, straightforward ingredients power this Black Forest Cookies Recipe, delivering a depth of flavor and wonderful texture. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the buttery base, the rich cocoa, or the vibrant cherries that make these cookies pop.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides a creamy, tender texture and rich flavor foundation.

Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel sweetness to balance the cocoa.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients and ensures the perfect chewy consistency.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm aroma.

All-purpose flour (1 1/3 cups): The structure builder that holds these delicious cookies together.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Delivers deep chocolate flavor without overpowering sweetness.
Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the cookies rise gently to the perfect thickness.

Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and amplifies the chocolate notes.
Maraschino cherries (1/2 cup, drained & finely chopped): Brings in those signature tart, sweet pops of fruitiness—make sure to pat dry for best texture.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3/4 cup): Melts to gooey pockets of chocolate, adding rich bursts in every bite.

Additional maraschino cherries and chocolate chips: For garnishing and extra visual appeal.

How to Make Black Forest Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Mix Wet Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350º F to get everything warm and ready for baking. Then, in a mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter and brown sugar together until they blend into a smooth, fluffy mixture—about one minute. This step is essential for creating a light cookie texture. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract and continue beating until fully incorporated and glossy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate

Whisk the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate small bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and cocoa powder, which is key for that perfect chocolate flavor. Gradually fold this dry mix into your wet ingredients using a spatula. Remember, the batter will be thick—that’s exactly how it should be for the ideal cookie consistency.

Step 3: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Drain your maraschino cherries thoroughly and chop them finely. You want to minimize any extra moisture so your cookies don’t turn out soggy. Fold in the cherries and the chocolate chips gently, distributing these flavor gems evenly throughout the dough. This step transforms the batter into the classic Black Forest flavor profile that makes this cookie so special.

Step 4: Shape and Garnish Your Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a silicone-lined baking sheet. Gently press additional maraschino cherry pieces and chocolate chips around the edges of each dough ball. Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also ensures each bite bursts with those delightful Black Forest flavors.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for 13 to 15 minutes—just long enough for the edges to set while keeping the centers soft and chewy. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This resting time is crucial for the cookies to firm up enough to transfer to a cooling rack without breaking.

How to Serve Black Forest Cookies Recipe

A white bowl lined with crumpled white parchment paper holds several thick, chocolate cookies stacked closely together. Each cookie is dark brown with a slightly cracked, soft texture and is studded with semi-melted dark chocolate chips alongside bright red cherry pieces scattered across the surface. Three whole shiny red cherries lie loosely on the parchment paper around the cookies. The whole setup rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your cookies with a few extra maraschino cherry halves and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings just before serving. These not only look stunning but also add bursts of flavor and texture for a treat that’s truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich chocolate and sweet cherry notes. A cup of hot coffee or dark roast espresso also pairs beautifully, perfect if you want a cozy, indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve your Black Forest Cookies Recipe stacked on a decorative plate alongside fresh whipped cream and a few whole cherries for a charming dessert display. You might even drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a glossy, decadent finish that will wow your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps keep them moist and soft.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, you can freeze them individually on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked softness, warm the cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated 300º F oven for about 5 minutes. This makes them taste like they just came out of the oven again.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in this Black Forest Cookies Recipe?

Fresh cherries can be used but keep in mind they have more moisture. You’ll want to thoroughly dry and possibly chop them smaller to avoid making the dough too wet, which can affect the cookie texture.

What’s the best way to chop maraschino cherries for these cookies?

Drain the cherries well, then pat them dry with paper towels before chopping. This prevents excess liquid from making the dough too loose or causing spread during baking.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a richer, slightly more intense chocolate flavor which pairs wonderfully with the sweet cherries. Just adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer less sweetness.

How can I make these cookies more soft and chewy?

Use room temperature butter and avoid overbaking by removing the cookies when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone. Cooling on the baking sheet also helps maintain softness.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, once fully cooled, you can freeze these cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

This Black Forest Cookies Recipe is one of those delightful finds you’ll want to keep coming back to. Its perfect balance of rich chocolate and bright cherry makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just a cozy night at home, these cookies promise smiles all around. Give them a try and watch them become your new favorite go-to treat!