Dark Chocolate & Cherries Oatmeal Cookies

This is a variation on my All-Natural Oatmeal Cookie recipe that I posted months ago. The base recipe is very similar, but this cookie ends up being lighter, less spiced, and a much more decadent version thanks to the addition of dark chocolate chips.

Oven Temperature: 375 degrees

Baking Time: 9-12 minutes

1/2 c. Unsalted Butter, Softened (1 stick)

1 c. Sucanat (or brown sugar)

1/3 c. Agave Nectar

2 large egg

2 t. apple cider vinegar

1 T. good quality vanilla

1/2 t. cinnamon

2 c. old fashioned rolled oats (not quick)

2 1/4 c. whole wheat pastry flour (or all-purpose, or white whole wheat)

1/2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. baking powder

3/4 t. salt

1 1/2 c. dried cherries

1 1/2 c. dark chocolate chips or chunks

Preheat the oven to 375. Prepare cookie sheets with Silpats (non-stick baking mats) or parchment paper (you can use foil in a pinch). DO NOT GREASE THE PANS!

Cream the butter and Sucanat for 3-4 minutes on medium speed. Add the agave nectar, vanilla, and apple cider vinegar and mix for 2-3 more minutes. Add the eggs and beat until combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the dry ingredients cinnamon thru salt. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix - the cookies will be tough. Add the cherries and chocolate chips to dough and mix until combined. Drop the cookies in rounded tablespoons onto the prepared pans and bake for 9-12 minutes until lightly golden brown. Hope you enjoy!