Name: Irresistible Black Forest Cookies: Chewy, Chocolatey Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch process is ideal); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; pinch salt; 0.5 cups unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 0.5 cups brown sugar (light or dark); 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 0.5 cups white chocolate chips; 0.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips (sprinkle extra on top); 1 cup fresh cherries (washed, pitted, and quartered)

The aroma of chocolate and cherries wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café in the heart of Germany. These Chewy Black Forest Cookies capture the spirit of the classic dessert in a delightful and accessible treat, perfect for anyone tired of fast food. With a rich chocolate base that’s punctuated by fresh cherries and both white and semisweet chocolate chips, this recipe is a dream for home-bakers seeking a quick but impressive indulgence. Plus, there’s no mixer required and no chilling time—what’s not to love? In just 34 minutes, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Are you ready to bring a taste of this beloved German creation to your own kitchen?

Why are Black Forest Cookies a must-try?

Irresistible flavors: The combination of rich chocolate and fresh cherries makes every bite a heavenly experience, reminiscent of the traditional Black Forest cake.
Quick & Easy: With no mixer required and no chill time, these cookies come together in just 34 minutes—perfect for those busy days when you crave something sweet.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat!
Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to get creative—try maraschino cherries or add nut-based chocolate for a fun twist! If you’re interested in more cookie ideas, check out my Harvest Cookies Amp for a seasonal favorite.
Texture Perfection: Crispy edges and a chewy center offer a delightful contrast, creating a truly memorable cookie experience.

Black Forest Cookies Ingredients

• Discover all the essential ingredients needed for these delicious, chewy Black Forest Cookies!

For the Cookie Base

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; ensure it is spooned and leveled to prevent dryness.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds deep flavor and color; Dutch process cocoa is ideal for a more intense chocolate taste.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for that soft texture.
Baking soda – Offers an extra lift for the cookies.
Salt – Enhances the flavors of all ingredients, bringing balance to the sweetness.

For the Wet Mixture

Unsalted butter – Contributes moisture and richness; melt and cool before adding.
Brown sugar – Adds moisture and depth; both light and dark varieties work well.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps cookies spread evenly.
Pure vanilla extract – Makes the flavors pop, enhancing the overall taste.
Large eggs – Help bind the ingredients and add moisture; room temperature is best for mixing.

For the Chocolate & Cherries

White chocolate chips – Provide a sweet and creamy flavor; a delightful contrast to the cocoa.
Semisweet chocolate chips – Deliver rich chocolate taste; sprinkle extra on top while warm for that melty goodness.
Fresh cherries – Bring natural sweetness and tartness; remember to wash, pit, and cut into quarters for the best texture.

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the enchanting flavor profile of these Black Forest Cookies—prepare to be amazed!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your Black Forest Cookies bake evenly and lift off easily once they’re done. The anticipation of the delicious chocolate and cherry aroma will surely fill your kitchen soon!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended and set aside. This mixture will provide the chocolatey foundation for your delightful Black Forest Cookies.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture
In a large bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, combine it with ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs. Stir the mixture thoroughly until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious base for your cookies that perfectly balances chocolate and cherries.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want your Black Forest Cookies to maintain their chewy texture. Once combined, fold in ½ cup of white chocolate chips, ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup of quartered fresh cherries, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 5: Scoop Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, which holds about 3 ounces, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart, aiming for six per sheet to allow for spreading. The size of the balls will ensure a generous cookie with a perfect chewy center and crisp edges, embodying the essence of the Black Forest.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft. For that extra chocolaty indulgence, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top of each cookie while they are still warm; this will create a melty topping that enhances the overall experience.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly. After that, gently transfer your Black Forest Cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely. This crucial step ensures that they achieve their delectable chewy texture while finishing the baking process.

What to Serve with Chewy Black Forest Cookies

Indulging in warm, gooey cookies transports you to a cozy café, and what better way to complement your treat than with delightful pairings?

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, rich vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm, chocolatey flavors of the cookies, making each bite a celebration.
Fruity Cherry Compote: A drizzle of cherry compote enhances the cookie’s fruity essence while adding a luscious, sweet-tart flavor that elevates the entire experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a velvety texture to each cookie, offering a perfect balance to the chewy richness.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries brings freshness and a burst of color to your dessert plate, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Chilled Milk: A classic pairing, the coolness of milk washes down the chocolatey goodness, refreshing your palate with every bite.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso deepens the chocolate flavor, making the experience exceptionally cozy and inviting.
Chocolate Mint Tea: For a soothing break, a cup of chocolate mint tea brings subtle minty notes that pair wonderfully with every chocolatey bite.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings over your cookies to amplify the chocolate flavor and impress your guests with a touch of elegance.

Black Forest Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Dried Cherries: Replace fresh cherries with dried ones for a chewier texture and more concentrated flavor.
Maraschino Cherries: For a sweeter touch, use maraschino cherries instead; just remember to drain them well!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that complements the chocolate and cherries beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dark Chocolate: Switch out semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of almond extract to give the cookies a warm spiced note, creating a unique twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for added indulgence and visual flair.
Cocoa Nibs: Fold in cocoa nibs for a delightful crunch, enhancing the chocolate flavor and providing a unique texture.

Each variation opens up a world of delightful possibilities, making these Black Forest Cookies even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, consider trying my Pecan Snowball Cookies or my Butter Thumbprint Cookies. Enjoy baking!

Expert Tips for Black Forest Cookies

Spoon Flour Correctly: Always spoon and level your flour to avoid compacting; compacted flour can lead to dry Black Forest Cookies.
Monitor Baking Time: Start checking your cookies at 13 minutes. If you bake too long, they’ll lose their chewy texture, becoming hard instead.
Chill Ingredients: Let dairy ingredients sit out for 2 hours before use; this helps create a smooth mixture and better texture in your cookies.
Use Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor, make sure to use ripe fresh cherries. Wash, pit, and cut them into quarters for even distribution.
Experiment with Variations: Try using maraschino or dried cherries for a different twist, or incorporate some nuts for an added crunch!

How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Cookies

Room Temperature: Store Black Forest Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and chewy, perfect for snacking anytime!

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 30 days. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. You can also warm them in the oven briefly for that fresh-baked taste!

Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or reheat in a 350°F oven for a few minutes, ensuring they retain their delightful chewy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Black Forest Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into balls and refrigerate on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and place the chilled dough balls directly on the baking sheet (just add a minute or two to the baking time). Additionally, you can wash, pit, and quarter the cherries up to 3 days ahead—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Enjoy restaurant-quality cookies with minimal effort on those hectic days!

Black Forest Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cherries for the Black Forest Cookies?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cherries that are firm, plump, and vibrant in color. Avoid any cherries with dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. If fresh cherries aren’t available, consider using maraschino cherries, but rinse them and pat dry to remove excess syrup.

What’s the best way to store leftover Black Forest Cookies?
Very simple! Just place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay deliciously soft and chewy for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them to maintain their texture.

Can I freeze Black Forest Cookies for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.

What if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies come out dry, it might be due to using too much flour. Always spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly with the measuring cup to prevent compacting. If you’re at a high altitude, adding an extra tablespoon or two of flour can help prevent such issues.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
It’s crucial to check your ingredients carefully. The Black Forest Cookies contain gluten, dairy, and eggs, which may not be suitable for individuals with sensitivities or allergies. For a gluten-free option, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and substitute eggs with a suitable vegan alternative, like flaxseed meal mixed with water.

Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Certainly! The beauty of this recipe is that it requires no mixer, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch. Just melt the butter, mix the ingredients by hand, and you’ll achieve a delightful cookie dough in no time! Enjoy the process and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen!