Chocolate Cherry Cream Sandwich Cookies

Rich chocolate cookies, creamy cherry filling, and a delicious combination of chocolate and fruit make these Chocolate Cherry Cream Sandwich Cookies an irresistible homemade treat. The cookies are soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, while the cherry cream filling adds a sweet, fruity contrast.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookies

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips, optional

For the Cherry Cream Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons cherry juice or milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract, optional
• ¼ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, well drained

Instructions

1. Make the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and creamy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips if using.

2. Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
2. Gently flatten each portion.
3. Bake for 8–10 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers remain slightly soft.
4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cherry Cream Filling

1. Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously.
3. Add the cherry juice, vanilla, and almond extract if using.
4. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Fold in the finely chopped, well-drained cherries.

4. Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Match the cooled cookies into pairs of similar sizes.
2. Spread or pipe a generous layer of cherry cream onto the flat side of one cookie.
3. Place the second cookie on top and gently press until the filling reaches the edges.
4. Repeat with the remaining cookies.

Optional Chocolate Finish

For an extra-special dessert, dip half of each assembled cookie sandwich into melted chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set on parchment paper before serving.

Tips for the Best Cookies

• Let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling.
• Drain the cherries very well to prevent the frosting from becoming watery.
• Don’t overbake the cookies; slightly soft centers give the finished sandwiches a delicious texture.
• Refrigerate the assembled cookies for about 20–30 minutes if you want the filling to become firmer.
• For an elegant finish, add a small cherry or chocolate drizzle to the top.

Storage

Store the finished cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings: 12–14 sandwich cookies