Caught in a flurry of pink sugar and laughter, I was reminded of the joy that Cherry Blossom Cookies bring to any gathering. These delightful treats are not just visually stunning with their rosy hue; they are incredibly simple to whip up, making them the perfect solution for those busy days when you crave a sweet homemade touch. Topped with a rich Hershey’s Kiss, each cookie offers a fantastic balance of buttery softness and cherry sweetness, creating a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a quiet moment, this recipe is guaranteed to lift your spirits and impress your loved ones. Ready to sprinkle some joy into your baking? Let’s dive into the charming world of Cherry Blossom Cookies!
Why Are Cherry Blossom Cookies So Special?
Delightful Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, these Cherry Blossom Cookies are a breeze to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Festive Appeal: Their vibrant pink color and sweet cherry flavor make them ideal for celebrations, whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a holiday cookie exchange.
Rich Chocolate Finish: The addition of a Hershey’s Kiss not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to each cookie. Try pairing with Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies for a delightful cookie platter!
Crowd-Pleasing Treats: These cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering, making everyone feel warm and joyful with every bite.
Versatile Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different extracts to customize the flavor profile—you could even swap in cherry-flavored Kisses for a delightful twist!
Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients
• Perfect for delightful baking!
For the Cookie Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for a rich and tender cookie, ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to a light, airy texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice – Adds moisture and the eye-catching pink color iconic to Cherry Blossom Cookies.
- Almond Extract (or Vanilla/Cherry) – Introduces a hint of complexity; feel free to swap with other extracts to personalize the flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies; adjust the amount as necessary for the right consistency.
- Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Offers delightful bursts of sweetness and texture throughout the cookie.
For Rolling
- Granulated Sugar – Adds a crunchy finish before baking, enhancing the cookie’s sweetness and presentation.
For Topping
- Hershey’s Kisses – A chocolatey finish that transforms each cookie into a festive treat, taking them to the next level!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blossom Cookies
Step 1: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for achieving the soft, tender texture of your Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Step 2: Add Cherry Juice and Extract
Once the butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, pour in 3 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth, about 1 minute. The vibrant pink of the cherry juice should be fully incorporated, contributing to both color and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should start to come together, and you may need to adjust the flour slightly to achieve the right consistency—look for a soft yet manageable dough.
Step 4: Fold in Cherries
With a spatula, gently fold in ½ cup of chopped maraschino cherries until evenly scattered throughout the dough. This adds delightful bursts of sweetness and enhances the cherry flavor in your Cherry Blossom Cookies. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the cherries to remain intact for pops of flavor.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll each one in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish. Place the rolled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to help them maintain their shape during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is chilling. Once ready, remove the chilled cookies from the refrigerator and arrange them on a baking sheet, keeping space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. You’ll know they are done when they puff up and the tops look set.
Step 7: Finish with Kisses
As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat from the cookies will slightly melt the chocolate, creating a beautifully glossy finish. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to Serve with Cherry Blossom Cookies
These delightful treats are perfect for sharing, inviting you to create a full meal experience that warms the heart and delights the senses.
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Green Tea: A delicate cup of green tea balances the sweetness of the cookies, bringing out the cherry flavor beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the cherry notes, creating a comforting contrast of temperatures and textures.
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Milk: Classic and nostalgic, a glass of cold milk harmonizes with the buttery softness, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries adds a refreshing, tart note that contrasts deliciously with the cookie’s sweetness.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpart, enhancing the overall tasting experience of the dessert spread.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For a playful twist, serve with a rich chocolate milkshake to complement the Hershey’s Kiss topping—pure indulgence!
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Sparkling Lemonade: The effervescence and citrus zing of sparkling lemonade refreshes the palate, balancing the sweet richness of the cookies perfectly.
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso offers a nice contrast to the cookie’s sweet flavors, making it an ideal pairing for coffee lovers.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Perfect for the holidays, this rich beverage elevates the festive spirit, providing a delightful chocolatey finish alongside the cookie’s cherry notes.
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Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruit salad adds a juicy, vibrant side that lightens the meal and enhances the cherry flavors in each cookie.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—just mix all the ingredients and place the formed balls in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can also chop the maraschino cherries ahead of time, storing them in a small, sealed container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the chilled dough balls out, roll them in granulated sugar, and proceed to bake them as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the delightful taste of homemade cookies with minimal effort during busy days, all while keeping them just as delicious!
Cherry Blossom Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Invite your creativity into the kitchen and transform these delicious Cherry Blossom Cookies with refreshing twists that’ll surprise and delight your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a completely dairy-free cookie.
- Flour Swap: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the cherry flavor by adding a tablespoon of cherry extract along with the maraschino cherry juice.
- Nutty Twist: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Chocolatey Delight: Swap out the Hershey’s Kisses for dark chocolate or even mint chocolate candies for a new flavor dimension.
- Embrace Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Fruity Variation: Incorporate finely chopped strawberries or raspberries into the dough for a mixed berry experience that brightens each bite.
- Bigger Cookies: Use a larger scoop to create giant cookies, just remember to bake a couple of minutes longer for that perfect chewy center.
Explore the delightful charm of your Cherry Blossom Cookies as you embrace these variations—they’re sure to add even more joy to your baking adventures! If you’re in the mood for something equally delightful, check out our Thick Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies or try the nostalgic touch of Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Cherry Blossom Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Always chill the cookie dough for at least 20 minutes before baking. This helps the Cherry Blossom Cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading.
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for a smooth, fluffy mixture. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
- Adjust Flour Wisely: If the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually. Start with a tablespoon until you reach the right consistency.
- Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing the dough after adding the flour. Over-mixing can lead to tougher cookies; gently blend until just combined.
- Flavor Exploration: Don’t hesitate to experiment with extract flavors. Almond, vanilla, or even coconut can bring a unique twist to your Cherry Blossom Cookies!
- Storage Considerations: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness for up to two weeks.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the cookies in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. Be sure to use a covered container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For optimal freshness, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 1 year.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste again, simply thaw cookies at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best maraschino cherries for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for bright red cherries with no dark spots or signs of fading. The cherries should be firm yet not overly hard. They should also be in a clear syrup to ensure added flavor and moisture in your Cherry Blossom Cookies.
What’s the best way to store Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Very well! Store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks in a covered container. For extra freshness, you can freeze them for up to 1 year—simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Can I freeze the dough for Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Definitely! To freeze the dough, scoop tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the balls into a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding an additional 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems sticky, don’t worry! It’s a common issue. Start by adding flour one tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches a workable consistency. It should be soft, not overly sticky. If you’ve added too much flour, add a little maraschino cherry juice, 1 teaspoon at a time, to bring it back to the desired texture.
Are Cherry Blossom Cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Most certainly! For a gluten-free version of Cherry Blossom Cookies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the product packaging for appropriate measurements, as you might need slightly less or more compared to traditional flour. Also, ensure that other ingredients like extracts and chocolates are gluten-free to meet dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Very easily! One way to enhance flavor is by swapping the almond extract with a different one—try vanilla or coconut for a twist! Additionally, using cherry-flavored Hershey’s Kisses can elevate the cherry notes in your cookies. Feel free to add a pinch of spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, for added warmth and depth.
Cherry Blossom Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add maraschino cherry juice and almond extract, mixing on low speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll in granulated sugar before placing on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill for at least 20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake chilled cookies for about 10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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