Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

These Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies are delightful bite-sized treats that are perfect for any occasion, from Christmas to Valentine’s Day. Their light pink color and the signature Hershey’s Kiss on top make them visually appealing, while their sweet cherry flavor keeps everyone coming back for more. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also bring a festive touch to your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute baking.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cherry juice and almond extract adds a unique twist that pairs well with various celebrations.
• Kid-Friendly: These cookies are fun to make with kids, allowing them to help shape the dough and decorate with chocolate.
• Great for Gifting: Beautifully packaged, these cookies make excellent homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Batch-Friendly: With 24 cookies in one batch, you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie dough scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time by quickly combining ingredients to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: A variety of bowl sizes allows you to mix ingredients without spills or mess.
• Cookie sheet: A good-quality cookie sheet helps ensure even baking and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

These cherry blossom cookies are bite-sized pink cookies topped with a Hershey’s Kiss which makes them great for Christmas and Valentine’s!

For the Dough

• 1 Cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 Cup powdered sugar
• ¼ Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon maraschino cherry juice liquid
• ¼ Teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla or cherry)
• 2 Cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
• 1 Cup maraschino cherries (chopped)

For Coating

• ¼ Cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Topping

• 24 Hershey Kisses

How to Make Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the cherry juice and extract of choice; continue mixing until smooth.

Step 2: Add Flour and Cherries

1. Gradually add 2 cups of flour along with the salt; mix on low until well incorporated.
2. Slowly add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a play-dough consistency.
3. Carefully stir in the chopped cherries just until combined.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Use a tablespoon-size cookie dough scoop to form small balls of cookie dough.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until coated.

Step 4: Chill Before Baking

1. Chill the dough balls for at least 20 minutes before baking.
2. During this time, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Place cookies evenly apart on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until baked through.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Kisses

1. Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie.
2. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy these delightful Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies at your next gathering or as a sweet treat any day!

How to Serve Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

These delightful Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their vibrant color and sweet flavor make them a festive treat that can be enjoyed in various ways.

For a Cozy Tea Party

• Pair with tea: Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of herbal or green tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Add finger sandwiches: Complement the sweetness of the cookies with savory finger sandwiches for a balanced spread.

As Holiday Treats

• Festive platter: Arrange cookies on a decorative platter with seasonal fruits and nuts to create an appealing holiday display.
• Gift boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

At Valentine’s Day Celebrations

• Romantic dessert table: Showcase these cookies on a dessert table filled with pink and red treats, perfect for celebrating love.
• Sweetheart snack: Enjoy these cookies while watching a romantic movie, adding sweetness to your date night.

How to Perfect Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

Creating the perfect batch of Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a light and fluffy dough, resulting in tender cookies.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill before baking prevents spreading and helps maintain their shape.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off; this prevents dense cookies caused by excess flour.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour and cherries to keep your cookies tender.
• Experiment with flavors: Try swapping almond extract for vanilla or cherry extract to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement their sweet flavor.

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese along with crackers for savory contrast.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of fruit or even the cookies themselves into chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat.
4. Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of coffee pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies, making it an ideal beverage choice.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that adds texture and tanginess.
6. Nut Mix: A selection of nuts provides crunch and saltiness that complements the sweet flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be a bit tricky, and making Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold butter – Cold butter can lead to a dense cookie. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a tender cookie.
• Not chilling the dough – Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies that spread too much. Always chill your dough for at least 20 minutes.
• Incorrect oven temperature – An oven that isn’t properly preheated can affect baking time. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Not measuring flour accurately – Too much or too little flour can change the cookie’s texture. Use the spoon and level method when measuring flour.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a pan on low heat for a few minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different extracts in Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute almond extract with vanilla or cherry extract depending on your taste preference.

How long do Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies last?

These cookies can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature or up to three months if frozen.

Can I add nuts to Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add great flavor and texture, just be sure they’re finely chopped.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cherry Blossom Cookies are delightful treats perfect for any occasion. Their sweet cherry flavor and festive appearance make them ideal for celebrations or as everyday snacks. Feel free to customize these cookies by adding nuts or trying different flavor extracts. Enjoy baking these charming cookies with family and friends!