There is nothing quite like the charm and delightful taste of a Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe to bring a smile to your face. These cookies combine the buttery richness of a classic shortbread with the sweet and vibrant pop of maraschino cherries, all crowned with a luscious chocolate kiss in the center. Each bite feels like a little celebration, perfect for sharing with friends or brightening your afternoon with a comforting treat. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just looking to try a fun and easy recipe, these cookies promise a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Cherry Blossom Cookies comes alive with just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in your cookie masterpiece. From the creamy butter that gives a melt-in-your-mouth texture to the vibrant cherries that add a burst of color, every item is essential to delivering the perfect balance of sweet, soft, and slightly crunchy.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This is the foundation for rich, tender cookies that practically melt on your tongue.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Adds a smooth, sweet base without any graininess, ensuring a delicate crumb.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors while balancing the richness.
- Maraschino cherry juice (1 tablespoon): Injects a subtle fruity tang and moisture for extra flavor depth.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon): Offers a wonderful aromatic note that complements the cherries beautifully; vanilla works here too if you prefer.
- Red food coloring (2-4 drops, optional): Gives the cookies a festive pink hue, evoking the charm of cherry blossoms.
- All-purpose flour (2 to 2½ cups): Creates the cookie’s structure; adjust to get the perfect dough consistency.
- Maraschino cherries, finely chopped and drained (1 cup): The star ingredient with juicy bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup, for rolling): Adds a touch of crunch and sparkle on the cookie surface.
- Hershey’s Kisses (24, unwrapped): The delightful chocolate surprise placed in the center of each cookie.
How to Make Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start off by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This simple prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, giving you beautiful bottoms every time.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key—it incorporates air into the dough, making the cookies wonderfully tender.
Step 3: Add Flavorings and Color
Now, stir in the salt, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and if you like, a few drops of red food coloring. This combination not only offers a lovely pink tint but also infuses the dough with that unmistakable cherry blossom vibe.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add 2 cups of flour at first, folding it gently into the wet ingredients. Add more flour if necessary until you achieve a soft dough that isn’t sticky. The right dough texture ensures cookies hold their shape without becoming dry.
Step 5: Fold in the Chopped Cherries
Gently mix in the finely chopped maraschino cherries. These little bursts of sweetness are what really make this Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe special, giving each bite a delightful surprise of tangy fruity flavor.
Step 6: Shape and Sugar the Dough Balls
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Then roll each ball in the granulated sugar for a slight crunch and pretty sparkle on your finished cookies.
Step 7: Bake and Press the Kisses
Arrange your sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart, then bake for 12 to 15 minutes. When the edges just begin to turn golden, remove from the oven and immediately press an unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. This last step melts the chocolate just enough to make it irresistible.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This pause helps the cookies set so they hold their shape perfectly when you dig in.
How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, dust your cooled cookies with a little powdered sugar or top with an edible flower petal to echo the cherry blossom theme. A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios can add a lovely color contrast and a gentle crunch that complements these cookies beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of green tea or a cozy mug of hot cocoa, making the perfect cozy moment. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a light vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies in a pretty glass jar or gift box with a ribbon for charming gifts. You could also arrange them on a floral-patterned plate for a themed party centerpiece that invites smiles and compliments. They really shine when shared at spring celebrations or afternoon tea parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry Blossom Cookies stay fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them away from direct sunlight will help maintain their lovely color and tender crumb.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead, the unbaked dough balls freeze wonderfully. Just place them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed bag. Bake straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To enjoy these cookies a little warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This warms the chocolate kiss to melty perfection again and refreshes the cookie’s soft texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries have more moisture and less syrupy sweetness compared to maraschino cherries, which can affect both taste and texture. If you use fresh cherries, chop them finely and consider reducing other liquids slightly. Maraschino cherries provide the signature flavor and color that’s essential for the Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe.
What can I use instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
You can swap Hershey’s Kisses for any small chocolate candies or even chocolate chips. Just make sure they are small enough to fit nicely into the cookie centers without overpowering the other flavors.
Is almond extract necessary, or can I omit it?
Almond extract adds a lovely nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with the cherry flavor, but if you’re allergic or prefer a subtler taste, vanilla extract is a great alternative. Either way, your cookies will be delicious.
Why roll the dough balls in granulated sugar?
Rolling in granulated sugar adds a light crunch and a sparkling finish to the cookies, enhancing their texture and visual appeal. It’s a small step that really elevates the final presentation.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that’s meant to replace regular flour cup for cup. Just keep an eye on the dough consistency since gluten-free flours vary, and adjust as needed for softness without stickiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to charm anyone who tries it, the Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe is an unbeatable choice. With its blend of buttery dough, sweet cherries, and chocolate delight, this recipe is a perfect way to welcome spring or add a touch of joy to any day. Grab your apron, invite some friends over, and bake these beauties to make sweet memories that last beyond the oven’s warmth.
