Cherry Chocolate Cookies

A naturally sweet, gluten-free cookie that’s as functional as it is fabulous.

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about a warm cookie but this recipe takes that feeling and infuses it with purposeful indulgence. These Cherry Chocolate Cookies blend chewy oats, juicy cherries, rich 87.5% dark chocolate, and a creamy hazelnut chocolate butter (yes, homemade!) to create a treat that’s not only delicious but gut- and brain-friendly too.

They're easy to freeze, fun to bake, and perfect with a cup of tea… especially if you’re catching the last of the summer tennis.

📝 Ingredients (Makes ~17 cookies - if you use 30g per cookie)

• 100g self-raising flour (gluten-free, sifted)

• 75g jumbo oats (gluten-free)

• 60g light brown sugar

• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

• 1 tbsp melted coconut oil

• 80g hazelnut chocolate butter (store-bought or homemade)

• 50ml plant milk (I used oat milk)

• 50g dried cherries (or swap in cranberries/raisins)

• 25g of raw cacao nibs (optional but make a lovely nutty bite)

• 50g 80Noir Ultra 87.5% dark chocolate, chopped

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C fan (180°C conventional).

2. Line a baking tray (30 x 35cm) with parchment paper.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, and sea salt.

4. Stir in the coconut oil, hazelnut chocolate butter, plant milk, chopped chocolate, cacao nibs, and dried cherries. Mix until it forms a rough dough.

5. Scoop out 1 tbsp portions (about 30g), roll into balls, and flatten slightly onto the tray.

6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until golden at the edges.

7. Cool on a wire rack — they’ll firm up as they cool. Sprinkle with a little extra sea salt if desired.

Why These Cookies Are Good for You

These aren’t just your average cookie. They’re made with thoughtful ingredients to support your energy, mood, and gut health without the crash.

✅ 87.5% Dark Chocolate (80Noir Ultra)

• Loaded with polyphenols, supports focus and mental clarity

• Naturally low in sugar, high in cocoa flavonoids

✅ Dried Cherries

• Contain melatonin for better sleep

• Packed with antioxidants and anthocyanins that reduce inflammation

✅ Hazelnuts & Oats

• Deliver fibre, vitamin E, and healthy fats

• Support heart health and stable energy

✅ Coconut Oil

• Aids in absorption of fat-soluble nutrients

• Provides a plant-based, anti-inflammatory alternative to butter

Make Ahead Tip:

Freeze the cookie dough balls for up to a month, then bake from frozen as needed for warm, fresh cookies on demand. Great for back-to-school prep or a mindful afternoon pick-me-up.

Serving Suggestion:

These pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea, dark hot chocolate, or a shot of espresso or just a simple cup of milk. Wimbledon may be ending, but snack season is just beginning