Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that combines sweet cherries with a rich chocolate center, perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor, making them ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply as a delicious snack. Their unique combination of cherry and chocolate creates a memorable taste experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Cherry Blossom Cookie recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of maraschino cherries and almond extract brings a delightful twist to classic cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because—these cookies fit any celebration!
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Topped with a Hershey Kiss and a drizzle of chocolate, they look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Cherry Blossom Cookies, having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking tray
• Cooling rack
• Piping bag (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.
• Cooling rack: Provides proper air circulation to cool your cookies without becoming soggy.

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Ingredients

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are sweet cherry cookies, topped with a rich Hershey Kiss, and finished with a drizzle of melted chocolate. Such a great treat!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 ½ cups flour
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries

For Topping

• ¼ cup sugar
• 24 Hershey kisses
• 2 ounces chocolate chips – optional

How to Make Cherry Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy.

Step 2: Add Flavors

Add in the cherry juice and almond extract to the mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour until fully combined.

Step 3: Fold in Cherries

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop to create evenly sized balls from the dough. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Once all cookies are shaped, refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes to firm up before baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the chilled cookies for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 7: Add Hershey Kisses

Immediately after taking them out of the oven, place each cookie on a cooling rack. Press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie gently so it sticks.

Step 8: Drizzle Chocolate (Optional)

If you choose to add an optional chocolate drizzle, melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, transfer to a piping bag and drizzle over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a sweet snack, these cookies will add charm to any occasion.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea creates a delightful experience. The sweet and fruity flavors complement the warmth of the beverages perfectly.

As Dessert Platters

• Arrange Cherry Blossom Cookies on a dessert platter along with other treats. This makes for an appealing centerpiece at parties or celebrations.

Gift Boxes

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts. They make a thoughtful and delicious present for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

Topped with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Cherry Blossom Cookies alongside vanilla or cherry ice cream. The combination of hot and cold is simply irresistible.

How to Perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies

To make sure your Cherry Blossom Cookies turn out just right, follow these handy tips.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when removed from the oven.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate for varied flavors and textures in your cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   Include a selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that complements the cookie’s flavor.
3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that pairs well with dessert.
4. Nut Mix
   A blend of almonds, walnuts, and dried fruits provides a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookies.
5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These are an elegant addition that mirrors the chocolate drizzle on the cookies while adding fruity freshness.
6. Mini Cheesecakes
   Individual cheesecakes offer a creamy counterpart to the chewy texture of Cherry Blossom Cookies, perfect for dessert lovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cherry Blossom Cookies can be simple and fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Always use softened butter for a smooth texture. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix until ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking. If you skip this step, your cookies may turn out flat.
• Skipping the cooling rack: Letting cookies cool on a rack ensures they set properly and maintain their shape. Skipping this can lead to soggy bottoms.
• Using stale ingredients: Always check expiration dates on your baking supplies. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For best results, layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Shape into balls before freezing for easy baking later.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen; store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cherry Blossom Cookies that might help you perfect your baking skills.

What makes Cherry Blossom Cookies special?

Cherry Blossom Cookies stand out due to their sweet cherry flavor and delightful chocolate kiss topping, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Can I substitute other fruits in Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Yes! You can replace maraschino cherries with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Cherry Blossom Cookies are done?

Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done baking. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I decorate my Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sprinkles or colorful icing for extra flair that matches any celebration or season!

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet treat, these cookies will surely delight your taste buds. Give them a try and see how much you love them!