Cherry Blossom Cookies

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend sweetness with a hint of cherry flavor. Topped with a rich Hershey Kiss and finished with a drizzle of melted chocolate, these cookies are suitable for various occasions such as parties, holidays, or simply as an afternoon snack. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them stand out, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet cherry taste paired with rich chocolate creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the toppings or add in different flavors to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and enjoying these fun cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having the right equipment will enhance your baking experience!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures even mixing of the butter and sugar for a fluffy texture.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and professional-looking results.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool down evenly, preventing sogginess.

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 Dough

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the maraschino cherry juice and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing until everything is fully blended.
4. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Use a cookie scoop to portion out even amounts of dough.
2. Roll each portion into balls, then coat them in sugar.
3. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Chill and Bake

1. Refrigerate the cookie dough balls for 20-30 minutes to help them hold shape while baking.
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Bake cookies for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Once baked, remove cookies from the oven and place them on a cooling rack.
2. Immediately press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie, wiggling it slightly to ensure it sticks well.

Step 5: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

1. If desired, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
2. Transfer melted chocolate into a piping bag or squeeze bottle.
3. Drizzle chocolate over the tops of cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy your deliciously sweet Cherry Blossom Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Blossom Cookies

Cherry Blossom Cookies are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Their sweet cherry flavor and rich chocolate topping make them a hit at parties, gatherings, or as a special dessert at home.

Pair with Tea

• Green Tea: The light and refreshing taste of green tea complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Chamomile Tea: A soothing chamomile tea provides a calming balance to the rich flavors of the cookies.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the cherry flavor.
• Citrus Segments: Oranges or grapefruits can offer a zesty punch that enhances the overall taste experience.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies, enhancing their sweetness.
• Cherry Sorbet: For a fruitier option, cherry sorbet echoes the cookie’s flavors while adding a refreshing touch.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Berries: Include blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for color and variety alongside the cookies.
• Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination adds an exciting crunch to your dessert spread.

How to Perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies

Making perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience.

• Chill Your Dough: This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevents spreading.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter ensures better mixing and creates a light texture in your cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
• Let Cool Before Topping: Allowing cookies to cool slightly before adding Hershey kisses helps them stick better without melting completely.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Blossom Cookies

When serving Cherry Blossom Cookies, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy contrast that pairs well with cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a rich, savory element alongside sweet treats.
4. Nut Mix: A selection of nuts offers crunch and can enhance the cookie’s cherry flavor profile.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or cookie pieces into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat alongside your cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Small cupcakes in various flavors give guests more dessert options while keeping portions manageable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Blossom Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill the dough for at least 20-30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough rather than tender. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Using warm butter: Warm butter can alter how your cookies bake. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can change the cookie’s consistency. Always measure ingredients precisely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Cherry Blossom Cookies are sweet cherry-flavored treats topped with a chocolate kiss, offering a delightful combination of flavors.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cherry Blossom Cookies?

You can enhance these cookies by adding more almond extract or using different types of chocolate for the drizzle.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries; however, be sure to chop them finely and adjust the sweetness as needed.

Are there any variations of Cherry Blossom Cookies?

You can experiment by adding nuts, coconut, or other fruits to customize your Cherry Blossom Cookies further.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite flavors or toppings. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet treat or share them with friends and family, they’re sure to delight!