Name: Irresistible Black Forest Christmas Cookies to Delight You
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (use more for dusting as needed.); 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (provides deep chocolate flavor.); 0.5 teaspoons baking soda (acts as a leavening agent.); 0.25 teaspoons salt (enhances flavor.); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened.); 0.75 cups granulated sugar (adds sweetness.); 0.5 cups light brown sugar (adds moisture.); 1 large egg (binds ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances cookie flavor.); 0.5 teaspoons almond extract (complements the chocolate.); 1 jar maraschino cherries (10-ounce, drained and chopped.); 0.25 cups cherry preserves (for gooey filling.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (thickens filling.); 1 tablespoon Kirsch (cherry liqueur) (optional.); 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped.); 0.33 cups heavy cream (for ganache.); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (adds richness.); white chocolate shavings (for decoration.); sprinkles (for added fun.); powdered sugar (for dusting.)

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As the holiday season approaches, our homes start to fill with the warm scents of baking—think of spicy cinnamon and rich chocolate intertwining in the air. That’s exactly how I felt when I first whipped up these delightful Black Forest Christmas Cookies. Let me tell you, the moment I took that first bite, my taste buds danced with joy!

This recipe was inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, but I wanted to capture its essence in a cookie form, making it perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly evening.

With a luscious cherry filling and a decadent chocolate ganache, these cookies not only look gorgeous but also offer layers of flavor that will have your friends and family asking for more. Plus, the preparation may sound intricate, but it’s surprisingly simple—great for those who crave homemade treats without spending all day in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s create a holiday cookie that brings a touch of magic to your celebrations!

Why Are Black Forest Christmas Cookies a Must-Try?

Indulgent decadence: These cookies blend the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries in every bite, giving you that festive spirit without the fuss.

Easy to make: Unlike traditional baking methods, this recipe streamlines the process, letting you whip up these treats in about two hours.

Stunning presentation: With their glossy ganache and decorative toppings, they’re a guaranteed showstopper at any holiday gathering.

Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family alike will love the unique flavor combination and delightful textures, making them perfect for sharing.

Versatile fun: Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as party treats, these cookies adapt to various occasions beautifully. For more delightful recipes, check out my holiday baking favorites!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – 2 cups (250g); essential for structure, use more for dusting as needed.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – ½ cup (50g); provides the deep chocolate flavor that defines these cookies.
Baking soda – ½ teaspoon; acts as the leavening agent to help your cookies rise.
Salt – ¼ teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g), softened; creates a rich and buttery texture.
Granulated sugar – ¾ cup (150g); adds sweetness and aids in achieving that light, fluffy dough.
Light brown sugar – ½ cup (100g); brings a hint of caramel taste and moisture.
Large egg – 1; binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; infuses warmth and enhances the cookie’s flavor.
Almond extract – ½ teaspoon; adds a lovely depth that complements the chocolate.

For the Cherry Filling

Maraschino cherries – 1 (10-ounce) jar, drained and chopped; contributes fruity sweetness and a pop of color.
Cherry preserves – ¼ cup; helps create that luscious, gooey filling we all love.
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon; thickens the cherry filling for the perfect consistency.
Kirsch (cherry liqueur) – 1 tablespoon, optional; enhances the cherry flavors, giving a festive touch.

For the Ganache and Toppings

Semi-sweet chocolate – 4 ounces (113g), finely chopped; forms the base of your silky ganache.
Heavy cream – ⅓ cup (80ml); encourages a glossy, decadent chocolate finishing touch.
Unsalted butter – 1 tablespoon; adds richness to the ganache.
White chocolate shavings – for decoration; adds elegance and contrast to the cookies.
Sprinkles – for added fun; a festive touch that makes baking more delightful!
Powdered sugar – for dusting; gives a beautiful, snowy finish to your cookies.

These Black Forest Christmas Cookies not only dazzle the eye but also create joyous moments with each delicious bite. Happy baking!

How to Make Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mixture sets the foundation for your cookies, blending these key ingredients evenly.
Cream the mixtures in a large bowl with softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Incorporate the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts. Continue mixing until well combined, ensuring a smooth batter that’s bursting with flavor.
Combine the ingredients by gradually adding the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just blended to maintain the perfect cookie texture. Avoid overmixing!
Chill the dough by dividing it in half, flattening into discs, wrapping in plastic wrap, and refrigerating for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for the ideal firmness.
Cook the cherry filling by combining the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry preserves, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens and turns glossy, about 3-5 minutes.
Cool it down by removing the saucepan from heat and stirring in the optional Kirsch. Allow the cherry filling to cool completely before using in the cookies.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until about ¼ inch thick. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to create cut-out cookies, making sure to have a matching set.
Cut out the centers by using a smaller cookie cutter (1 inch) on half of the cookies. These will become the delightful tops of your sandwich cookies.
Transfer each cookie to the baking sheets, giving about 1 inch of space between them, ensuring they don’t stick together while baking.
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them for that perfect bake!
Cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, getting ready for the delicious ganache and filling.
Prepare the ganache by placing the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it simmers. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate.
Stir gently after letting it sit for 1 minute, creating a smooth, glossy ganache. Ensure all the chocolate is melted and combined beautifully.
Mix in the butter until melted and fully incorporated to add richness and a silky finish to your ganache.
Spread ganache on the flat side of each of the whole cookies. A thin layer is perfect for building the layers without overfilling.
Add cherry filling by spooning a small amount onto the center of the ganache. Don’t overfill to prevent any delightful spills.
Top with a cookie: place the other cookies with cut-out centers on top of the cherry filling, gently pressing down to help them adhere.
Drizzle remaining ganache over the assembled cookies if desired, adding that extra touch of chocolatey goodness.
Decorate your cookies with white chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that festive finish they deserve!
Chill in the fridge: for best results, allow the assembled cookies to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the ganache set perfectly!

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves their freshness and prevents them from drying out.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure they are in a sealed container to maintain moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste again!

What to Serve with Black Forest Christmas Cookies?

As the aroma of these delectable cookies fills your home, you might wonder what delightful treats will enhance this festive experience.

Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness, creating a warm and comforting experience. The sweetness of the cocoa complements the cookies beautifully, making each sip and bite a cozy celebration.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that elevates the decadence of the cookies. This creamy addition balances the rich chocolate and cherry flavors, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each cookie.
Mulled Wine: A glass of gently spiced mulled wine brings a festive cheer that complements the flavors in the cookies. The warm spices mirror the sweetness of the cherry filling, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s ideal for holiday gatherings.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or cherry ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies. The cold, creamy ice cream melts into the warm ganache, adding a luscious layer to this indulgent dessert.
Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of a nutty biscotti offers a pleasant contrast to the soft, chewy cookies while adding a hint of savory notes that enrich every bite. Dunking a biscotti into your coffee alongside the cookies becomes a delightful ritual.
Fruit Platter: A vibrant platter of fresh fruits like strawberries or apples will bring a refreshing lightness to balance the richness of the cookies. The natural sweetness of the fruits complements the cherry filling, creating a refreshing palate cleanser.

Pair these delicious options with your Black Forest Christmas Cookies for a festive treat experience that captures the essence of the holiday season!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Black Forest Christmas Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to get a head start on holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it; this not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. The cherry filling can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, cut your cookies, and proceed with the recipe as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, heavenly cookies that are just as delicious, with a fraction of the effort!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your unique twist on these delightful cookies with these simple substitutions and variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty alternative.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and coconut cream for the ganache, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Nut-Free: Omit the almond extract or replace it with an extra splash of vanilla extract for a nut-free version.
Extra Cherries: Add a handful of dried cherries into the cookie dough for an extra burst of fruity goodness that complements the filling.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the ganache for a seasonal mint twist that adds a festive flair.
Double Chocolate: Use chocolate pudding mix in the dough for an even richer cocoa flavor and an extra fudgy cookie texture.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to warm up the flavors and make your cookies even more cozy.
Cherry-Almond Fusion: For a deeper cherry flavor, blend a few tablespoons of pure cherry juice into the cherry filling for a delightful surprise.

With these variations, your Black Forest Christmas Cookies will be as unique as your holiday traditions! Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Black Forest Christmas Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough for at least one hour. This helps in better handling while rolling out and prevents spreading during baking.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so embrace that tender texture!
Check the Bake Time: Ovens can vary; start checking your cookies at the 8-minute mark. You want them to be slightly firm on the edges but still soft in the center.
Avoid Overfilling: When adding the cherry filling, a small spoonful is enough. Overfilling can cause messy spills while assembling!
Garnish Wisely: Use white chocolate shavings and sprinkles to elevate the visual appeal. Be creative with decorations that suit your holiday theme.

These Black Forest Christmas Cookies are sure to bring joy to your festivities, so enjoy every moment of the baking process!

Black Forest Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Black Forest Christmas Cookies, I recommend using maraschino cherries as they provide a sweet, vibrant taste. Ensure they’re well-drained and chopped to maintain the right consistency in your filling. If you prefer a more tart flavor, you can also use fresh sour cherries or frozen ones, just be sure to thaw and drain them before use.

How should I store the cookies for maximum freshness?
To maintain the deliciousness of your assembled cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you’d like to preserve them for longer, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to 1 week, tightly sealed to keep that moisture locked in.

Can I freeze the Black Forest Christmas Cookies? How?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze the assembled cookies for up to 2 months. First, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature. If you want to warm them up, bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to recreate that fresh-baked taste!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Black Forest Christmas Cookies seem to spread too much, it’s likely due to the dough being too warm. To troubleshoot, make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out, and take care to keep the assembled cookies cool as you prepare the filling and ganache. If you continue to have issues, consider adding a bit more flour to the dough or reducing the baking time slightly.

Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
While these cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they contain ingredients that could be harmful to pets, such as chocolate and cherry liqueur. Always keep baked goods away from your furry friends! Additionally, those with allergies to nuts should be cautious with the almond extract, or simply leave it out for a nut-free version. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens when serving others.

Can I customize the sprinkles or toppings used?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Instead of white chocolate shavings or sprinkles, you could use crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of your favorite flavored icing. Tailor the decorations to fit your holiday theme or personal taste for that extra festive touch!