Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

Name: Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies for Ultimate Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dark chocolate chunks; 1 cup dried cherries

Posted on October 28, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies. They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful solution for those hectic days when you want something sweet without the fuss. Imagine the chewy texture of oats mingling with the sweetness of cherries and the richness of chocolate chunks. It’s a combination that’s sure to impress your loved ones and bring smiles to their faces. Trust me, these cookies are a must-try for any home cook!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

These Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together in just 27 minutes, making them perfect for a quick treat after a long day. The combination of chewy oats, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Rolled oats: These provide the chewy texture that makes these cookies so satisfying.
All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the cookie, giving it structure and stability.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps achieve that perfect cookie crispness.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for a creamy texture and rich taste.
Large egg: This binds everything together and adds moisture for a tender cookie.

Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.

Dark chocolate chunks: Rich and decadent, these chunks melt beautifully and add a luxurious touch.
Dried cherries: Sweet and tart, they provide a burst of flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute dried cherries with other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins if you prefer. For those who want a little extra crunch, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience.

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This process is essential for creating a light and fluffy texture. The sugar crystals help to aerate the butter, which gives your cookies that delightful chewiness. Don’t rush this step; take your time to mix until it’s creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the large egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. It helps your cookies rise and enhances the overall flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids involved—let them do the whisking!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to tough cookies. You want to see a few flour streaks remaining. It’s okay; they’ll come together in the next step!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Cherries

Time to fold in those luscious dark chocolate chunks and dried cherries! Folding is a gentle mixing technique that helps maintain the cookie’s texture. You want to keep that chewy goodness intact, so use a spatula and carefully incorporate the chocolate and cherries until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. I like to use a tablespoon for uniformity, but feel free to make them as big or small as you like!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown, but the centers still look a bit soft. They’ll continue to cook a little after you take them out, so don’t overbake!

Step 9: Cooling the Cookies

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to transfer. After a few minutes, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a smoother texture.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it enhances the cookie’s chewiness.

For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough.
Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts for a unique twist.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients. Any size will do!
Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease can do the job too.
Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet or any flat baking tray will work.

Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
Cookie scoop or spoon: For portioning dough, but a tablespoon works just as well!

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the chewy oats.

Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Fruit Fusion: Swap dried cherries for other dried fruits like apricots or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

For a fun presentation, stack cookies on a decorative plate and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Include a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

FAQs about Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

While fresh cherries are delicious, they contain more moisture and can make the cookies soggy. I recommend sticking with dried cherries for the best texture and flavor.

How do I store Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies!

What can I substitute for the egg?

If you need an egg substitute, try using a flaxseed meal mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, then add it to your dough.

How can I make these cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, avoid overbaking them. Take them out when the edges are golden but the centers still look soft. They’ll firm up as they cool!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Cherry Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that fills your home with warmth and delightful aromas. Each bite is a perfect blend of chewy oats, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate that brings smiles to my family’s faces. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies create memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it!