Cherry Blossom Cookies
Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the sweetness of maraschino cherries and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of classic cookies together in a beautiful way. Perfect for cookie lovers of all ages, these cookies are easy to make, which makes them an excellent choice for busy days or special occasions. With a simplistic approach and customizable flavors, Cherry Blossom Cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 32–35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 120
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 50 mg
Why Make Cherry Blossom Cookies
These Cherry Blossom Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also versatile enough to fit any occasion. The combination of maraschino cherries with a buttery base captures a unique flavor profile that can brighten any dessert table. Plus, they’re customizable! You can easily swap out extracts to suit your preferences—a simple tweak can lead to an entirely new cookie experience. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, or simply as a scrumptious snack for yourself.
How to Make Cherry Blossom Cookies Step by Step
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup confectioners sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice
1/4 teaspoon almond, vanilla, or cherry extract
2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained
1/4 cup granulated white sugar for rolling
24 Hershey Kisses
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add salt, maraschino cherry juice, and your choice of almond, vanilla, or cherry extract. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add 2 cups of flour, mixing gently until just combined. Add more flour as needed until the dough is firm but not dry.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries evenly throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in granulated sugar. Place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Immediately after removing from the oven, press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing it to soften slightly.
- Let cool completely on the tray before transferring to wire racks to cool fully.
How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cookies
Cherry Blossom Cookies can be enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a fun dessert platter, serve them alongside some fresh strawberries or a light fruit salad. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
How to Store Cherry Blossom Cookies
To store your Cherry Blossom Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Simply allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating in the microwave for a few seconds will bring back the warmth and meltiness of the Hershey Kisses.
Expert Tips for Cooking Cherry Blossom Cookies
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a lighter texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be just combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- If using different extracts, start with a little and taste as you go; you can always add more!
- Experiment with other flavored chocolates instead of Hershey Kisses for added variety.
- Always check the cookies at the lower end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
Delicious Variations of Cherry Blossom Cookies
- Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts for a delightful crunch.
- Incorporate citrus zest such as lemon or orange for a refreshing twist.
- Replace maraschino cherries with dried cherries or cranberries for a chewier texture.
Conclusion
Cherry Blossom Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet, fruity cookie. Their ease of preparation, combined with the burst of flavor from the cherries and chocolate, makes them a standout choice for any occasion. Encourage your friends and family to indulge in these delightful treats; once you try them, you’ll understand why these cookies deserve a place in your recipe collection.
Cherry Blossom Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add salt, maraschino cherry juice, and your choice of almond, vanilla, or cherry extract. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add 2 cups of flour, mixing gently until just combined. Add more flour as needed until the dough is firm but not dry.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries evenly throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in granulated sugar. Place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Immediately after removing from the oven, press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing it to soften slightly.
- Let cool completely on the tray before transferring to wire racks to cool fully.
