The aroma of chocolate mingles with the sweet scent of cherries in my kitchen, reminding me that the best part of the holidays is often found in the treats we make and share. These Black Forest Christmas Cookies are a delightful take on the classic dessert, transforming rich cocoa and luscious cherry preserves into a festive bite-sized wonder. With their quick prep time and easy-to-follow steps, these cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to impress friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, they're a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of nostalgia to your holiday gatherings. Are you ready to elevate your cookie game this season?
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Indulgent Flavor: Each cookie bursts with a rich chocolate taste, perfectly balanced by the tartness of cherry preserves.
Timeless Treat: Black Forest is a classic that never goes out of style, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite.
Quick to Make: With only 20 minutes of prep time and minimal ingredients, you can whip these up without stress!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a holiday party or a cozy family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress your guests.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dress them up for dessert with a dollop of whipped cream! Don't forget to check out my classic cookie recipes for more festive ideas!
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake something magical!
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup softened butter – for a rich, creamy base that melts in your mouth.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – sweetens and helps create that delightful lift in your cookies.
- 2 large eggs – adds moisture and binds the dough beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a splash of warmth that enhances all the flavors.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the backbone of your cookie dough, ensuring the perfect texture.
- ¾ cup cocoa powder – the star ingredient for that deep chocolatey flavor, essential for Black Forest Christmas Cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – makes your cookies rise to fluffy perfection.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – helps achieve that tender crumb while balancing the acidity.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness and round out the flavors perfectly.
For the Topping
- 1 cup cherry preserves – adds a burst of fruity goodness that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- 1 cup heavy cream – to whip up into dreamy clouds of topping.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – sweetens the whipped cream just right for a delightful finish.
- Dark chocolate shavings – for a touch of elegance and extra chocolate flavor on top.
Gather these ingredients, and you're all set to conjure up a batch of scrumptious Black Forest Christmas Cookies that will bring joy to any holiday gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition while stirring in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until evenly mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms, ensuring there are no dry flour patches remaining in your Black Forest Christmas Cookies dough.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is combined, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling process is essential as it helps the dough firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape into cookies later on.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Make sure your oven is fully heated before moving on to the next step to ensure even baking of your Black Forest Christmas Cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
After the dough has chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This step ensures that each cookie bakes evenly and maintains its lovely round shape.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the tops are set but still soft to the touch. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their rich flavors to develop.
Step 7: Whip the Cream
While the cookies are cooling, whip together 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar in a clean mixing bowl using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This fluffy whipped cream will top your Black Forest Christmas Cookies just perfectly.
Step 8: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously spread a tablespoon of cherry preserves on each cookie. Then, pipe or dollop the whipped cream on top of the preserves, creating a beautiful and delightful layer that complements the cookie's rich chocolate flavor.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
To finish off your delicious Black Forest Christmas Cookies, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an elegant touch and extra chocolate flavor. Arrange the cookies on a platter and serve them up to family and friends to enjoy at your holiday gatherings!
Tips for the Best Black Forest Christmas Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This step solidifies the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if possible to ensure precise measurements, particularly for flour and cocoa powder. This can greatly affect the texture of your Black Forest Christmas Cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Check your cookies around the 10-minute mark. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking will lead to dry cookies.
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Cooling is Key: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up for stacking and topping.
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Creative Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings! In addition to cherry preserves and whipped cream, try adding crushed nuts or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Christmas Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
- Fridge: If you prefer firmer cookies, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: To freeze, place unassembled cookies (without preserves and cream) in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before adding toppings for a freshly baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Black Forest Christmas Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your baking for the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Alternatively, if you prefer to bake ahead, the completed cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply spread the cherry preserves and whipped cream on top (freshly prepared for the best texture), then garnish with dark chocolate shavings for that festive touch. This thoughtful prep not only saves you time but also ensures each bite is just as delicious as when they were fresh!
What to Serve with Black Forest Christmas Cookies
Indulge in a joyful celebration of flavors by pairing these scrumptious treats with delightful sides and drinks that elevate the festive spirit.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich, warm beverage complements the cookies' chocolatey goodness, creating a cozy duo perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The warming spices in this cider create a comforting contrast to the cookies, enhancing the fruitiness of cherry preserves.
- Minty Peppermint Bark: A simple yet sophisticated treat, pairing with these cookies adds a refreshing minty twist, perfect for holiday festivities.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing bite that balances the richness of chocolate cookies with tart cherries.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop some creamy goodness beside your cookies for a delightful temperature contrast that turns each bite into a dreamy experience.
- Mulled Wine: Warm and aromatic spiced wine enhances the festive atmosphere, providing a deliciously sophisticated drink option alongside your sweet treats.
- Pecan Pie Bars: Rich, nutty, and sweet, these bars beautifully complement the flavors of your Black Forest Christmas Cookies while adding a touch of nostalgia.
These pairing ideas ensure your holiday celebrations feel hearty, warm, and uniquely memorable!
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies, enhancing them with flavors, textures, or dietary needs that your family will adore!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and dairy-free butter to keep these cookies vegan-friendly.
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for an extra nutty flavor and delightful crunch. They’ll add a rich texture that complements the chocolate perfectly.
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Fruity Surprise: Swap cherry preserves with raspberry or strawberry preserves for a unique twist that brings a different berry-laden delight!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a warm spiciness that surprises and excites the taste buds.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips for an extra dose of chocolate in every bite, enhancing this treat’s delicious decadence.
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Mini Cookies: Make smaller bite-sized cookies by scooping half the dough and adjusting the bake time to 8-10 minutes. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings!
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Chilled Treats: After topping with whipped cream and cherry preserves, place the cookies in the fridge for an hour before serving. Enjoy them as refreshing chilled treats on a warm day.
With these variations, you can create your own signature version of Black Forest Christmas Cookies that speaks to your palate! And while you're at it, explore more unique flavors with my festive cookie creations for a delightful twist on holiday favorites!
Black Forest Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the preserves?
I recommend using tart cherry preserves for that classic Black Forest flavor, but you can also opt for sweet cherries if you prefer a milder taste. Just ensure that your choice complements the rich chocolate base of the cookies!
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Black Forest Christmas Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying to retain their softness.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Black Forest Christmas Cookies, first, freeze the unassembled cookies (without the cherry preserves and whipped cream) in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and quickly warm them in the oven for about 5 minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading too much while baking, it may be due to the butter being too warm or not chilling the dough long enough. Make sure the butter is softened but not melted, and definitely chill the dough for at least an hour to help them hold their shape better.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
These Black Forest Christmas Cookies contain ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which are not safe for pets. Always keep these cookies out of reach of dogs and cats to avoid any health issues. If you're considering baking treats for your furry friends, try finding dog-friendly recipes that use safe ingredients!
Decadent Black Forest Christmas Cookies to Savor This Season
Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup softened butter for a rich, creamy base
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar to sweeten and elevate cookies
- 2 large eggs adds moisture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavors
- 2 cups all-purpose flour ensures the perfect texture
- 0.75 cups cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps cookies rise
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda balances acidity
- 0.25 teaspoon salt enhances sweetness
Topping
- 1 cup cherry preserves adds fruity goodness
- 1 cup heavy cream for whipping
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar sweetens whipped cream
- dark chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then mix in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until edges are firm and tops are set. Cool on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whip together heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
- Spread a tablespoon of cherry preserves on each cooled cookie, then pipe or dollop whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with dark chocolate shavings before serving.
