Cocoa Cherry Drops
Cocoa Cherry Drops are rich, chocolatey cookies filled with chopped nuts and maraschino cherries, perfect for those craving a sweet, indulgent treat with fruity and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl.
- Add egg and vanilla; blend well.
- Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; blend into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in chopped nuts and cherries.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Garnish with candied cherries or walnut pieces, if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're out of maraschino cherries, dried cherries or cranberries can work as a substitute. Make sure your butter is softened for easier creaming. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but for an extra touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a tall glass of milk. They pair beautifully with Chocolate-Raspberry Pound Cake for a dessert platter. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance when serving at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cocoa Cherry Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, place cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocoa Cherry Drops contains roughly 136 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cherry in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries or frozen cherries if maraschino cherries are not available. Just make sure to chop them and adjust the sweetness according to your preference, as fresh cherries may be less sweet.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?
You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute to create a dairy-free version of these cookies. Just ensure that the alternative is solid at room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they have set around the edges and are slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, which can make them dry.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).