Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

If you are craving a cookie that perfectly balances rich and chewy with bursts of sweet and tart, then this Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies bring together wholesome oats, deep bittersweet chocolate, and vibrant dried cherries for a flavor combination that feels both indulgent and comforting. Each bite offers a wonderful texture contrast, thanks to the toasted pecans and luscious chocolate chips melting on top. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or gifting someone a homemade delight, these cookies are guaranteed to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of your Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. From the creamy butter that adds richness to the combination of oats that bring hearty chewiness, every element contributes to making these cookies truly special.

• Salted butter (3/4 cup): Using slightly softened butter ensures a creamy base and enhances the cookie’s texture and flavor.
• Dark brown sugar (1 1/2 cups, packed): This adds deep molassy sweetness and helps create a soft, chewy texture.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder and adds moisture for the perfect cookie consistency.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates all the flavors and adds a subtle warmth.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup, spooned and leveled): Provides structure and stability to the cookies without making them tough.
• Baking powder (3/4 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving just the right lift.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the brown sugar for tenderness and spreading.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Old fashioned oats (1 cup): Adds chewy texture and wholesome bite.
• Quick oats (1 1/4 cups): Contributes to softness, complementing the old fashioned oats perfectly.
• Dried tart cherries (1 cup, coarsely chopped): Burst of tartness and chewy texture that pairs amazingly with chocolate.
• Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces, chopped): Adds rich, slightly bitter depth to contrast the sweetness.
• Pecans (1 cup, toasted and chopped): Brings crunch and a toast nutty flavor for extra dimension.
• Dark chocolate chips (to top cookies): Melted on top while hot, they add a glossy, melty finish.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats, which prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This simple preparation step sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies every time.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Allow your butter to sit out for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s just softened but not melting. This is crucial for getting that creamy, fluffy texture when you beat it with sugar, which helps your cookies stay tender and moist.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with dark brown sugar for one to two minutes until the mixture turns lighter in color and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom to mix everything evenly, ensuring consistent texture in the cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the mixture, beating well. This combination enriches the dough and rounds out the flavor with that warm vanilla note.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add one cup of flour to the bowl, but do not mix it in yet. In a separate small bowl or using a spoon, stir together the baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the flour. This step evenly distributes the leaveners and salt, so your cookies rise nicely and have balanced flavor. Once combined, gradually mix this flour blend into the wet ingredients just until incorporated.

Step 6: Add Oats, Cherries, Chocolate, and Pecans

Now’s the time to add the heart and soul of this Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe: the oats, dried tart cherries, chopped bittersweet chocolate, and toasted pecans. These mix-ins provide layers of texture and that unforgettable flavor combination.

Step 7: Fold in Mix-Ins Gently

Using a spatula, gently fold the mix-ins into the batter, making sure no flour streaks remain. It’s important not to over mix once the ingredients come together, as this could toughen your cookies.

Step 8: Portion the Dough

Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop out dough balls and shape them as needed. Place about eight cookies per baking sheet, spaced roughly two inches apart, so they have plenty of room to spread and bake evenly.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 13 minutes. The edges should look set and slightly golden, with a tiny bit of shine remaining in the centers. This ensures they stay soft and chewy without overbaking.

Step 10: Top with Dark Chocolate Chips Immediately

Once out of the oven, generously sprinkle dark chocolate chips on top of each hot cookie so they melt slightly, adding an irresistible glossy finish that intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Step 11: Cool Properly

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps the cookies set perfectly without crumbling.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after adding the chocolate chips to enhance the contrast between sweet and salty flavors. You can also add a few whole toasted pecan halves on top for a pretty and tasty finish.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or even a glass of cold milk. Their hearty texture and deep flavors make them a perfect companion to your favorite beverage, whether it’s for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try stacking these cookies on a rustic wooden board or arranging them in a clear glass jar tied with a festive ribbon. You can even sandwich softened cream cheese frosting or vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delightful ice cream sandwich twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and chewy for up to five days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain moisture and softness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Simply shape the dough, place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake frozen dough at the same temperature adding a few extra minutes. Baked cookies also freeze beautifully for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated or frozen cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness. You can also reheat them in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes for a crisp edge with a warm center.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cherries for dried cherries?

Fresh cherries add too much moisture and can alter the cookie texture. Dried tart cherries maintain flavor without making the dough wet, which is key to the perfect cookie structure.

What type of oats is best for these cookies?

The recipe combines old fashioned and quick oats to balance chewiness and softness. Using only one type might change the texture, but you can experiment if needed.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet?

Bittersweet chocolate offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cherries and sugar. Milk chocolate will make cookies sweeter and less complex but still delicious if you prefer a milder chocolate flavor.

Why does the recipe call for two types of oats?

Old fashioned oats give more chew and a hearty texture, while quick oats blend in smoothly, enhancing softness. Together they create a perfect balance in this cookie recipe.

How long should I let the cookies cool before eating?

Waiting at least 5 minutes after baking allows the cookies to set properly. Eating too soon may cause them to break apart, but if you love gooey cookies, try one warm with melted chocolate chips on top.

Final Thoughts

This Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just yourself, the combination of tart cherries, rich dark chocolate, and hearty oats delivers a comforting yet decadent treat. Dive into this recipe and enjoy every bite of these unforgettable cookies—you’ll wonder why you didn’t bake them sooner!

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