Black Forest Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s as decadent as it is comforting, this Black Forest Cookies Recipe is one you’ll want to bookmark immediately. Imagine biting into a soft, cocoa-tinted cookie wrapped around a luscious cherry jam and creamy white chocolate filling – the perfect harmony of flavors inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, but in a handheld form. These cookies are not just delicious, they’re also surprisingly easy to make, which means you can bring a bit of bakery magic right into your own kitchen.

I first tried making this Black Forest Cookies Recipe during the holiday season, and it quickly became a favorite to share with friends and family. The intense cherry flavor paired with rich chocolate hits just the right note of indulgence without feeling too heavy, making it perfect for festive gatherings or even a cozy weekend treat with your afternoon coffee. Plus, the unique combo of textures—from the crumbly dough to the smooth filling—keeps things interesting bite after bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Black Forest Cookies Recipe plays a special role, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s both rich and fresh. Picking good-quality chocolate and cherry jam really makes all the difference, so I always recommend splurging just a little here for the best results.

• Flour: Use all-purpose flour for that perfect cookie texture that’s not too cakey or too tough.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter helps create a tender dough; if it’s too cold, your cookies might not spread properly.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar balances sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Vanilla sugar: This adds a subtle, warm vanilla note – if you can’t find it, a teaspoon of vanilla extract works well too.
• Egg: Provides structure and richness to the dough, making it easier to shape.
• Cocoa powder: Just a tablespoon gives the dough a lovely chocolate hint without turning it into a chocolate cookie.
• White chocolate: For the creamy filling, I prefer using good-quality white chocolate bars rather than chips; they melt smoother.
• Heavy cream: Mixed with the white chocolate to create that luscious ganache filling.
• Cherry jam or jelly: Strained cherry jam is my go-to because it keeps the filling silky and avoids any chunks that could tear the cookies.
• Cherry schnapps (optional): Adding a splash can elevate the cherry flavor beautifully if you’re comfortable with a little boozy twist.
• Milk or dark chocolate: For coating and decorating the cookies — use what you love most!
• Chopped dark chocolate: Sprinkled on top for a nice crunchy texture and extra chocolate goodness.

Variations

I love how customizable this Black Forest Cookies Recipe is. Over the years, I’ve tried adding my own twists depending on the occasion or what I have on hand, and you can definitely make it your own too.

• Alcohol-free version: Skip the cherry schnapps and add a teaspoon of almond extract instead for a similar depth of flavor without any alcohol. I find this great when baking for kids or those avoiding alcohol.
• Vegan variation: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, use dairy-free chocolate, and a flax or chia egg instead. I experimented with this once for a friend and was pleasantly surprised by the moistness it retained.
• Nutty twist: Mix finely chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts into the dough for some crunch and added flavor, which I especially enjoy during autumn.
• Dark chocolate filling: Swap out white chocolate ganache for dark chocolate ganache if you prefer a more intense chocolate taste — it balances beautifully with the cherry jam.

How to Make Black Forest Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Cookie Dough

Start by beating the softened butter with sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture looks fluffy and light—this usually takes about 3 minutes on medium speed with a hand mixer. Then, beat in the egg until it’s fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until you form a smooth, workable dough. Don’t overmix here—just combine until all the flour disappears to keep the cookies tender.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is crucial because chilled dough is easier to handle and prevents spreading when baking, which means your cookies will keep their perfect shape. I like to prep this part the night before when I have the time.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough chills, chop the white chocolate into small pieces. Heat the cream gently until it’s just about to simmer, then pour it over the chopped white chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and silky. Mix in the cherry jam, and if you’re using schnapps, stir that in as well. Set this filling aside to cool; a thicker filling works better inside your cookies without leaking.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter (roughly 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of one circle, then top it with another circle and press the edges gently to seal. If you want to get fancy, fork-press the edges for a cute pattern. Transfer cookies to a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake and Decorate

Bake for about 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye to make sure they don’t overbake — you want them set but still soft. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Melt the milk or dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies, then sprinkle chopped dark chocolate on top while the drizzle is still wet. This adds a beautiful touch and some extra texture I always appreciate.

How to Serve Black Forest Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I tend to keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra chocolate. Sometimes I’ll add a fresh cherry on top during special occasions—it’s charming and ties back to the cherry jam filling beautifully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of finely chopped dark chocolate for a little crunch and that lovely bittersweet contrast.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or black tea to balance the sweetness. I’ve also enjoyed them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, especially on chilly evenings. It’s a surprisingly delightful combo that feels like dessert within a dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like arranging these cookies in a festive tin layered with wax paper and tied with a ribbon. Another fun idea is stacking them as mini towers on a cookie platter, interspersed with fresh cherries or sprigs of mint for a pop of color. A box of these makes a thoughtful homemade gift that always impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Black Forest Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. I usually layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking or the chocolate drizzle from smudging. They stay soft while still maintaining their beautiful filling and flavor.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these cookies successfully both before and after baking. If freezing the dough, shape the cookies first and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag—then bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two baking time. For baked cookies, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, thawing at room temperature.

Reheating

To refresh frozen or leftover cookies, I like to warm them for about 10 seconds in the microwave or 3-4 minutes in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C). This brings back some of that fresh-baked softness without melting the filling too much. Just keep a close eye so they don’t dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I genuinely love making this Black Forest Cookies Recipe whenever I want to treat myself or impress guests with something unique but approachable. It’s one of those rarer cookies that feel both nostalgic and a bit fancy all at once. I hope when you give it a try, you’ll enjoy not only the flavors but also the cozy, rewarding experience of making these delightful treats at home. Plus, they’re fantastic conversation starters—I guarantee you’ll get asked for the recipe!

Print