The sweet aroma of cherry blossoms fills the air, evoking memories of sunny days and celebrations. I always find myself reaching for a batch of Cherry Blossom Cookies when I want to add a sprinkle of joy to any occasion. With their soft, buttery texture and delightful bursts of cherry sweetness, these cookies are an instant crowd-pleaser and perfect for festive gatherings. What I love most is the simplicity of this recipe—it requires no intricate rolling or decorating, making it a breeze for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, the customization options are endless, allowing you to swap in different extracts or chocolate Kisses for a unique twist. Ready to bake some happiness? Let’s dive into this charming recipe together and fill your kitchen with warmth!
Why Are Cherry Blossom Cookies So Irresistible?
Delightful Flavor: The perfect blend of cherry sweetness and rich chocolate makes each bite simply scrumptious!
Festive Appeal: These cookies are ideal for any occasion, brightening up gatherings from holidays to casual get-togethers.
Easy Recipe: There’s no complicated rolling or excessive decorating required; this recipe is accessible for every baker.
Customization Galore: Feel free to experiment with extracts, like swapping in vanilla or peppermint, to tailor these cookies to your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for cookie trays or gift-giving, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to family and friends alike.
If you enjoy these delightful cookies, check out my Raspberry Linzer Cookies for another sweet treat!
Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; replace with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps create a smooth texture; be sure to sift it to avoid lumps.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice – Adds unique cherry flavor and vibrant color; substitute with cherry extract if needed.
- Almond Extract (or Vanilla/Cherry) – Enhances the flavor; try different extracts for fun variations.
- All-Purpose Flour – Main structure of the cookie dough; can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
- Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Provides bursts of sweetness; fresh cherries can be used with added cherry extract for flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Gives a sweet crust; colored sugar is a festive alternative.
- Hershey’s Kisses – The perfect topping that complements the cookie; consider dark chocolate or cherry-flavored Kisses for enhanced flavor.
These Cherry Blossom Cookies not only look stunning but also taste divine. Gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blossom Cookies
Step 1: Prep Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups powdered sugar until the mixture is soft and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice along with 1 teaspoon of almond extract, stirring until smooth and well-blended.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined, and the dough has a cohesive, slightly sticky texture—similar to play dough. Make sure there are no patches of flour remaining, but avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
Step 3: Add Cherries
Gently fold in ½ cup of chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will add delightful bursts of cherry sweetness to each bite of your Cherry Blossom Cookies. Set the mixture aside and let it rest briefly as you prepare for the next steps.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie for spreading. Chill the cookie balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to help maintain their shape during baking.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough balls are thoroughly chilled, bake them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should look slightly puffed and just set in the center for the best texture.
Step 6: Add Topping
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and, while the cookies are still warm, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delightful Cherry Blossom Cookies, warm and fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you want to extend the freshness even longer, you can place the container in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 weeks.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziptop bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 year without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy thawed cookies warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, allowing the chocolate from the Hershey’s Kiss to soften beautifully.
Cherry Blossom Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize these cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Flavor Boost: Swap almond extract with vanilla or peppermint for a delightful twist that changes the entire vibe of your cookies. The aromatic flavors will brighten your cherry treats beautifully.
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Sweetness Hint: Use brown sugar in place of powdered sugar. This introduces a deeper caramel-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cherries.
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Fruitful Fun: Experiment with other fruits, like chopped strawberries or raspberries instead of cherries. Just adjust the extract to match the new flavor profile.
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Chocolate Alternatives: Try topping with dark chocolate Kisses or even cherry-flavored Kisses for an amplified chocolate-cherry experience that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. The texture will still be delightful!
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Add Some Heat: For a little kick, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough. The subtle heat will balance out the sweetness and create an intriguing flavor experience.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the cookie batter. They’ll add a lovely crunch that complements the cherry flavor beautifully.
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Colored Sugar Roll: Instead of granulated sugar, roll the cookie balls in colored sugar for a festive look! This small touch transforms the appearance, especially for holiday celebrations.
These variations will provide endless enjoyment and creativity when making your Cherry Blossom Cookies! If you’re looking for even more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out my delightful Raspberry Swirl Cookies or my festive Christmas Maraschino Cherry cookies for a seasonal twist!
What to Serve with Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Imagine delighting your guests with colorful plates of cookies, artfully paired to enhance your sweet spread.
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Green Tea: The light and refreshing flavor of green tea beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cherry flavor, adding a rich, delicious contrast to each bite. The warmth of the cookies and the coolness of the ice cream will create a delightful mouthfeel.
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Cheesecake Bites: Creamy cheesecake bites can provide a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness of Cherry Blossom Cookies, perfect for dessert platters that invite variety.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The fruity freshness of strawberries dipped in chocolate enhances the cherry notes in your cookies, making for a whimsical and elegant pairing.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy sparkling lemonade adds a refreshing zest that brightens the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for a festive gathering.
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Coffee: Sipping on a nice cup of hot coffee can elevate your cookie experience; the rich flavors balance the sweetness and add warmth to the occasion.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with cherries, strawberries, and melons provides a fresh contrast, enhancing the cherry flavor while keeping the meal light and bright.
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Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve classic chocolate milk alongside your cookies for a delightful treat that brings out the chocolatey goodness in each bite.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzling a little caramel on each cookie adds an extra layer of sweetness, tantalizing the taste buds and inviting guests to indulge even more.
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Mini Cupcakes: Cute mini cupcakes in complementary flavors can make your dessert table festive, adding a variety of sweet delights to enjoy together with the Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Expert Tips for Cherry Blossom Cookies
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Chill Dough: Ensure you chill the cookie dough for at least 20 minutes. This crucial step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
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Adjust Consistency: If your cookie dough feels too sticky, gradually add small amounts of flour until it reaches a manageable texture, ensuring that your Cherry Blossom Cookies are easy to shape.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try using peppermint or vanilla extracts to create unique flavor profiles that suit your celebration or mood.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be just set and lightly golden around the edges for the perfect chewy texture.
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Proper Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze them for longer-lasting enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can shape the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just freeze the cookie balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a ziplock bag for long-term storage. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven while still frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This not only ensures that your cookies are just as delicious as if you made them right away, but it also means you can have fresh, warm Cherry Blossom Cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes!
Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select cherries for this recipe?
When choosing maraschino cherries, look for those with a vibrant red color that doesn’t have dark spots or a faded appearance. If fresh cherries are more your style, opt for firm ones without blemishes. You might need to increase the amount of cherry extract for flavor intensity if using fresh.
How should I store leftover Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. They also do well in the fridge, where they can last up to 3 weeks. To retain their delightful chewiness, make sure they are tightly sealed.
Can I freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies? What’s the best way to do so?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for long-term storage. Here’s how:
- Allow the baked cookies to cool completely.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer the cookies to a ziplock freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- They can be frozen for up to one year. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm up the chocolate.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find yourself with sticky dough, don’t worry! Simply add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until you achieve a good working texture. The dough should be manageable and form easily into balls without sticking to your hands. This ensures perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies every time!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
To adapt for allergies or dietary restrictions, you can replace unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free option. To make the cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Always check the labels of your ingredients, especially the chocolate Kisses, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can pets eat chocolate-topped cookies?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so make sure to enjoy your treats while ensuring your furry friends stick to their own safe snacks!
Cherry Blossom Cookies: Sweet Chocolate Joy for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until soft and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate maraschino cherry juice along with almond extract, stirring until smooth and well-blended.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined, ensuring the dough is slightly sticky.
- Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in granulated sugar and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled dough balls for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- While the cookies are still warm, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow to cool before transferring to a wire rack.
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