Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies

Introduction

Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of a brownie combined with the elegance of Black Forest cake, all in a bite-sized cookie that’s gluten-free and utterly delicious. These cookies are packed with intense cocoa flavor, studded with sweet, juicy cherries, and have a hint of almond that ties everything together beautifully.

What I love most about these cookies is their versatility—they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, baking for the holidays, or simply treating yourself to something decadent. The flourless base gives them an irresistibly chewy texture, while the cherries add a pop of sweetness and a nod to the classic Black Forest dessert. They’re easy to make yet look and taste like a gourmet treat.

I first made these cookies as a twist on my favorite brownie recipe, inspired by my love for chocolate and cherries. They quickly became a family favorite, with everyone raving about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for sharing with friends who have dietary restrictions.

Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat, or enjoy them on their own with a cup of coffee or tea. Once you try these Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies, they’ll become your go-to recipe for a crowd-pleasing dessert!

Perfect for:

• Gluten-free dessert options
• Chocolate lovers
• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
• Holiday cookie platters
• Gifting homemade treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies deliver a luxurious dessert experience in every bite. Here’s why they’re a standout recipe:

• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The intense cocoa flavor is reminiscent of a fudgy brownie but in a convenient cookie form.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: No flour means these are perfect for those avoiding gluten without compromising on taste.
• Cherries and Almonds: The combination of sweet cherries and almond essence adds a sophisticated twist to the classic brownie cookie.
• Chewy Perfection: These cookies have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior that is utterly satisfying.
• Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them on their own, with ice cream, or as part of an elegant dessert spread.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for a quick dessert fix anytime.
• Perfect for Sharing: Their rich, indulgent flavor makes them an excellent choice for gifting.
• Customizable: You can easily swap cherries for other dried fruits or mix-ins for endless variations.
• Impressive Yet Effortless: These cookies look and taste gourmet but are surprisingly easy to make.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: About 12 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 18g, Fat: 8g, Protein: 3g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup dried cherries

Ingredient Highlights

• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure for the flourless batter.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The key to a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• Egg Whites: Bind the cookies together while giving them a chewy texture.
• Almond Extract: Enhances the Black Forest flavor profile with a subtle nuttiness.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Add pockets of gooey, melty chocolate to every bite.
• Dried Cherries: The sweet-tart cherries are a nod to the classic Black Forest cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure a smooth batter.

Make the Batter:

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the egg whites and almond extract until a thick, glossy batter forms.
4. Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and dried cherries to distribute evenly.

Shape the Cookies:

5. Portion the Dough: Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Flatten Slightly: Lightly press down on the mounds to shape them into cookie rounds.

Bake and Cool:

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are shiny and crackly.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

Serve these Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies in a variety of ways to enhance your dessert experience:

• Classic Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
• With Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or cherry ice cream for a luxurious dessert.
• Cookie Sandwiches: Spread a layer of whipped cream or frosting between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
• Dessert Platter: Add them to a holiday cookie platter for a stunning presentation.
• Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let them set for an extra-chocolaty twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some handy tips to make the most of your Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies:

• Room Temperature Egg Whites: Let the egg whites come to room temperature for easier mixing and better consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid overly dense cookies.
• Use Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking by always lining your baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Chop the Cherries: If using large dried cherries, chop them into smaller pieces for better distribution.
• Test for Doneness: The cookies are ready when they’re glossy and crackly but still slightly soft in the center.
• Let Them Cool: Allow the cookies to cool fully before removing them from the parchment to prevent breaking.
• Double the Batch: These cookies freeze well, so make an extra batch for later!
• Switch Extracts: Swap almond extract for vanilla if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Sprinkle coarse sugar or sea salt on the cookies before baking for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations for your Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies:

• White Chocolate Chips: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier contrast.
• Cherry-Almond Delight: Add chopped almonds along with the dried cherries for extra crunch.
• Mint Chocolate: Use peppermint extract instead of almond for a festive minty flavor.
• Cranberry Twist: Substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries for a tangy twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the almond extract and use vanilla extract for a nut-free version.
• Espresso Infusion: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a mocha-inspired treat.
• Triple Chocolate: Use a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for an ultra-chocolaty cookie.
• Coconut Variation: Fold in shredded coconut with the cherries for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that complements the chocolate.
• Raspberry Bliss: Swap cherries for freeze-dried raspberries for a tart, fruity variation.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment

Here are some tools that will help you make the best Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies:

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl to combine your ingredients evenly.
• Sifter: For a smooth and lump-free cocoa and powdered sugar mixture.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures evenly sized cookies for uniform baking.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Baking Sheet: A sturdy, nonstick baking sheet for perfectly baked cookies.
• Wire Rack: Cools cookies evenly to maintain their chewy texture.
• Spatula: For transferring cookies without breaking them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Chopping Board: To chop dried cherries into bite-sized pieces if needed.
• Airtight Container: Keeps your cookies fresh and chewy for longer.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
   Fresh cherries can release too much moisture into the batter, so it’s best to use dried cherries for this recipe.
2. Are these cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, these cookies are naturally gluten-free as they contain no flour.
3. What if I don’t have almond extract?
   You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
4. Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked cookies?
   Yes, portion the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and store in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The cookies are ready when the tops are shiny, crackly, and slightly soft in the center.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Just make sure to mix the batter in a bowl large enough to hold all the ingredients.
7. Can I add nuts to the recipe?
   Yes, chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts can add a delicious crunch.
8. What’s the best way to chop dried cherries?
   Use a sharp knife on a clean cutting board and chop the cherries into small, even pieces.
9. Can I make these cookies egg-free?
   You can try using aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg white substitute, though the texture may vary.
10. Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
    No, the dough is ready to bake immediately after mixing.

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Conclusion

Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies combine the indulgence of chocolate brownies with the elegance of Black Forest flavors, making them a standout treat for any occasion. These cookies deliver a rich, chewy texture packed with deep chocolate flavor, balanced by the tangy sweetness of cherries and the sophistication of a hint of almond.

Perfectly combining indulgence with a touch of elegance, these cookies are a wonderful addition to dessert tables, gift boxes, or an everyday snack to satisfy your sweet cravings. They’re also naturally flourless, making them an excellent option for those following a gluten-free lifestyle.

With easy-to-follow steps and versatile variations, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. Whether you add a drizzle of chocolate, sprinkle them with powdered sugar, or enjoy them as they are, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

I’d love to see how your Black Forest Flourless Brownie Cookies turn out! Be sure to share your creations on social media and tag me—I can’t wait to admire your beautiful bakes. Happy baking and happy indulging!