Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

This cherry blossom cookie recipe transforms simple ingredients into delicate, pink-hued treats that never fail to impress. The combination of buttery cookie base, sweet maraschino cherries, and chocolate kiss creates an irresistible bite-sized delight that disappears quickly at any gathering.

I first made these for my daughter's school Valentine's party, and the pretty pink color with chocolate kisses on top had everyone asking for the recipe. Now they're requested for every holiday cookie exchange I attend.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter at room temperature ensures proper creaming and texture
• Powdered sugar creates a more delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookie than granulated sugar
• Maraschino cherry juice provides natural pink coloring and sweet cherry flavor
• Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor perfectly but vanilla works wonderfully too
• All-purpose flour forms the structure while keeping cookies tender
• Chopped maraschino cherries add moisture and bright bursts of flavor throughout
• Granulated sugar for rolling adds a subtle crunch and sparkle to the exterior
• Hershey Kisses create the signature "blossom" appearance and chocolate contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat the room temperature butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in color and fluffy in texture. This usually takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer. This critical step incorporates air into the dough for a lighter texture.

Add Flavoring Elements

Pour in the cherry juice and your chosen extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated. The dough will take on a light pink color naturally from the cherry juice. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and salt gradually, mixing on low speed to prevent flour from flying everywhere. The dough should reach a play-dough consistency that can be handled without sticking to your fingers. If needed, add additional flour one tablespoon at a time until you reach this texture.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries using a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix just until distributed to avoid overmixing which can make the cookies tough. The dough will now have beautiful red flecks throughout.

Shape and Chill

Use a tablespoon scoop to portion the dough, roll into balls, and coat each in granulated sugar. Place on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This chilling step is essential for preventing spread during baking.

Bake the Cookies

Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them. Bake in your preheated oven for exactly 10 minutes until just set but not browned on the edges.

Add the Chocolate Kiss

Immediately after removing from the oven, gently press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat from the cookie will slightly soften the chocolate base, helping it adhere without completely melting.

Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the chocolate from melting too much and helps the cookies set properly.

Bookmark

The maraschino cherries are truly what make these cookies special in my family. My grandmother used to make a version of these every Christmas, and the moment I smell that distinct sweet cherry aroma in the kitchen, I'm instantly transported back to her holiday cookie trays that would line the dining room table.

Making Ahead and Storage

These cherry blossom cookies can be prepared in stages if youre short on time. The dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the shaped cookie dough balls for up to 3 months just add an extra minute or two to the baking time when cooking from frozen. Once baked and decorated with the chocolate kiss, store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They maintain their best texture and flavor for about 5 days at room temperature.

Perfect Pairings

These dainty cookies make a beautiful addition to any dessert platter but are especially charming when served with complementary beverages. Try pairing them with hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat, a glass of cold milk for classic cookie enjoyment, or even a cherry-infused tea that echoes the fruity notes in the cookie. For adult gatherings, these cookies are surprisingly delightful alongside a glass of rosé wine or even a chocolate liqueur.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cookies spread too much during baking, your dough likely needed more flour or longer chilling time. The dough should feel firm when going into the oven. For too-crumbly cookies, you may have added too much flour. The dough should hold together but still feel slightly soft. When adding the chocolate kisses, work quickly while cookies are warm but not hot, as this creates the perfect adhesion without melting the chocolate entirely.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use different extracts for these cherry blossom cookies?

Yes! While the recipe suggests almond extract, you can customize the flavor by using vanilla or cherry extract instead. Each variation will give the cookies a slightly different but equally delicious taste profile. Experiment with your favorite extracts to make the cookies uniquely yours.

→ Why do the cookie dough balls need to be chilled?

Chilling the dough for at least 20 minutes before baking is crucial as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevents excessive spreading. This step also makes the dough easier to handle and results in a better texture in the finished cookie.

→ Can I use different chocolates instead of Hershey Kisses?

Absolutely! While Hershey Kisses create the classic cherry blossom look, you can substitute them with other chocolate candies. Try different flavors of Kisses, chocolate buttons, or even small chocolate squares. Just make sure to press them into the cookies immediately after baking while they're still warm.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store cherry blossom cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake the frozen dough balls directly from the freezer, just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

→ What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a play-dough consistency that can be handled without sticking to your hands. The moisture in maraschino cherries can vary, so adjusting the flour is sometimes necessary.