Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies 🍒🌸

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With their soft, buttery texture, sweet maraschino cherry flavor, and a Hershey’s Kiss nestled in the center, they’re the perfect combination of elegance and fun. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just because, these cookies are sure to wow any crowd.

Let’s dive into how to make these festive, cherry-filled treats step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive & Fun : The vibrant red cherries and shiny chocolate kisses make these cookies a showstopper.
2. Soft & Chewy : A melt-in-your-mouth texture with bursts of cherry flavor.
3. Customizable : Use different extracts or chocolates to suit your taste.
4. Perfect for Gifting : Beautifully packaged, these cookies make thoughtful homemade gifts.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Loved by kids and adults alike—perfect for parties or potlucks.

Ingredients

(Makes 24 cookies)

• 1 cup unsalted butter , softened to room temperature
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon maraschino cherry juice (liquid from the jar of cherries )
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla or cherry extract )
• 2–2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries , drained and patted dry
• ¼ cup granulated white sugar (for rolling )
• 24 Hershey’s Kisses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the softened butter , confectioners’ sugar , and salt until light and fluffy.
2. Add the maraschino cherry juice and extract of your choice (almond, vanilla, or cherry ). Continue mixing until smooth.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of flour , mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
   • Tip : If the dough is too sticky, slowly add more flour, 1–2 tablespoons at a time, until the dough resembles playdough consistency and can be handled without sticking to your hands.

Step 2: Add the Cherries

1. Carefully stir in the chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can break up the cherries too much.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Use a Tablespoon-sized cookie dough scoop to form small balls of dough.
2. Roll each ball in granulated white sugar until evenly coated.
3. Place the dough balls on a plate or tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

1. While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes , or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.

Step 6: Add the Kisses

1. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
   • Tip : Work quickly while the cookies are still warm to ensure the Kisses stick well.
2. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Pat Dry the Cherries : After draining, pat the chopped cherries dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from making the dough too sticky.
2. Use Quality Chocolate : Opt for unwrapped Hershey’s Kisses or other high-quality chocolates for the best flavor.
3. Experiment with Extracts : Try almond extract for a nutty note, vanilla for classic sweetness, or cherry extract for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Storage : Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days . Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze baked cookies (without Kisses) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Add the Kisses after thawing and warming slightly.

Perfect Pairings

These Cherry Blossom Cookies pair beautifully with:

• Milk : A cold glass of milk is the classic pairing for these sweet, festive cookies.
• Coffee or Tea : Enjoy alongside a warm mug of coffee, espresso, or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
• Hot Cocoa : Pair with a rich cup of hot cocoa for double the indulgence.
• Sparkling Beverages : Serve with sparkling water or champagne for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie, Approx.)

(Based on 24 cookies)

• Calories : ~180 kcal
• Protein : ~2g
• Carbohydrates : ~25g
• Fat : ~9g
• Fiber : ~0.5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a charming and delicious treat that’s sure to impress. The combination of buttery cookie dough, sweet maraschino cherries, and a chocolate kiss creates a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, gifting to loved ones, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are a guaranteed hit.

The best part? They’re easy to customize, so you can experiment with different extracts, chocolates, or even dried fruits to make them your own. So grab your ingredients, roll those dough balls, and get ready to enjoy a cookie that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.