Cherry Blossom Cookies

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sweetness with every bite. Topped with a rich Hershey Kiss and finished with a drizzle of melted chocolate, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. With their vibrant cherry flavor and beautiful presentation, these cookies will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of maraschino cherries and almond extract creates a unique flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or a sweet snack at home, these cookies fit any occasion!
• Fun for Kids: Baking these cookies is a fun activity to do with children, allowing them to help roll the dough and place the Hershey Kisses.
• Customizable: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the sweetness level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious Cherry Blossom Cookies, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer or whisk: This tool helps achieve a creamy consistency when blending butter and sugar efficiently.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking.
• Cooling rack: A cooling rack allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing them from getting soggy on the bottom.

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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 Cookies

• 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
• ¼ cup sugar

For Topping

• 24 Hershey kisses
• 2 ounces chocolate chips – optional

How to Make Cherry Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the countertop. Measure them out accurately to ensure the best results in your baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Flavors

Add in the maraschino cherry juice and almond extract. Mix until combined. Gradually add in the flour while mixing until incorporated.

Step 4: Fold in Cherries

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

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Use a cookie scoop to portion out even-sized balls of dough. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on a lined baking tray.

Step 6: Chill Dough

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

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Once preheated, bake the cookies for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 8: Add Hershey Kisses

As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, place them on a cooling rack. Press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm. Wiggle gently to help it stick.

Step 9: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

If you want an extra touch, melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until fully melted. Place it in a piping bag and drizzle over the tops of cooled cookies for added decoration.

How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies are delightful treats that can brighten any occasion. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, tea parties, or simply as a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.

Pair with Tea

• Herbal Tea: The fruity notes of cherry pair nicely with chamomile or hibiscus tea.
• Green Tea: Matcha or jasmine green tea adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully.
• Cherry Sorbet: Enhance the cherry flavor by serving with a tart cherry sorbet for a refreshing twist.

Use as Party Favors

• Gift Boxes: Package the cookies in small boxes tied with ribbon for a charming party favor.
• Cookie Jars: Fill mason jars with Cherry Blossom Cookies for a delightful gift that friends and family will love.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Treats: Arrange Cherry Blossom Cookies alongside other baked goods like brownies and fruit tarts for an enticing dessert table.
• Chocolate Dipping Station: Set up a station where guests can dip their cookies in melted chocolate for added indulgence.

How to Perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Cherry Blossom Cookies, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough helps maintain their shape while baking and prevents spreading.
• Use Fresh Cherries: For enhanced flavor, consider using fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries when in season.
• Properly Measure Flour: Ensure you spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies caused by excess flour.
• Experiment with Extracts: Try different extracts like vanilla or coconut alongside almond extract for unique flavors.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Blossom Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delightful options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses pairs nicely, offering a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
3. Chocolate Fondue – Melted chocolate provides an interactive dessert option where guests can dip their cookies.
4. Pecan Pie Bars – These rich bars add another layer of sweetness and texture to your dessert spread.
5. Lemonade – A glass of chilled lemonade brightens up any gathering and complements the cherry flavors well.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts beautifully with cookie sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Blossom Cookies can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the chilling step – Not chilling the dough will result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill your dough for 20-30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature – Using cold butter may prevent proper mixing. Ensure your butter is softened for smooth blending.
• Not measuring flour accurately – Too much or too little flour can change the cookie’s texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Baking at incorrect temperatures – An oven that’s too hot can burn the cookies. Always preheat and check the accuracy with an oven thermometer.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Blossom Cookies

• You can freeze baked cookies for up to three months.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Blossom Cookies.

What is the best way to store Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I customize Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap out cherries for other fruits, or include different flavored extracts.

How do I make Cherry Blossom Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Why are my Cherry Blossom Cookies flat?

Flat cookies usually result from warm dough or too much butter. Make sure to chill your dough properly before baking.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Blossom Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With simple adjustments, you can customize these sweet treats to fit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress family and friends!