Name: Delicious Chocolate Cherry Blossoms for Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adds sweetness); 1/2 cup Cherry Juice (Sourced from maraschino cherries); 1/2 cup Maraschino Cherries (Chopped); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (Optional, substitute with vanilla); 2 cups Flour (For structure); 24 pieces Hershey Kisses (Dark chocolate or white chocolate alternative); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For glaze sweetness); 2 tablespoons Water or Cherry Juice (To thin the glaze); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (Optional for glaze)

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“Can you hear the sound of laughter and cheerful chatter filling the kitchen? That’s the unmistakable magic of holiday baking, and nowhere is it more delightful than with these Chocolate Cherry Blossoms. These festive cherry kiss cookies bring together a rich cherry-flavored dough and melting dark chocolate kisses for an irresistible combination that will have everyone reaching for just one more. Not only are they a joyous addition to any cookie tray, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, perfect for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen. With a unique flavor that dances between sweet and slightly tart, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or gift-giving. Are you ready to fill your home with the sweet aroma of cherry and chocolate? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!”

Why will you adore these cookies?

Irresistible Combination: The delightful pairing of cherry and dark chocolate in these Chocolate Cherry Blossoms creates a taste that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.

Quick and Easy: Designed for busy bakers, this straightforward recipe allows you to whip up these festive cookies in no time. You’ll be done before you know it!

Lovely Presentation: Their eye-catching pink hue and topped with melting Hershey kisses make them perfect for cookie trays and gift-giving.

Versatile Flavors: Feel free to swap in different chocolates or add nuts for an extra twist, ensuring everyone finds something to love.

Family Favorite: These cookies hold a nostalgic charm, making them ideal for creating new memories while savoring the sweet moments of the season, just like in a classic holiday film.

If you’re looking for more festive delights, be sure to check out Pink Hot Chocolate for a drink worthy of toasting your baking success!

Chocolate Cherry Blossoms Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Softened, serving as the main fat that provides richness and moisture.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a fine texture; granulated sugar can substitute, but it may change the final texture.
Cherry Juice – Offers delightful flavor and moisture, sourced from maraschino cherries; cherry extract can be used for a stronger cherry punch.
Maraschino Cherries – Chopped, these bring sweetness and texture; feel free to use fresh cherries for a less sweet version if in season.
Almond Extract – Boosts the flavor profile with a lovely aromatic undertone; substitute with vanilla extract for a different twist.
Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; for gluten-free options, a gluten-free flour blend can be used.

For the Topping

Hershey Kisses – Dark chocolate kisses pressed into each cookie add a sweet finishing touch; white chocolate can be an appealing alternative.

Optional Glaze Ingredients

Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness in the glaze, enhancing the overall presentation.
Water or Cherry Juice – Used to thin the glaze for the perfect drizzle; opt for cherry juice to keep that flavor going!
Almond Extract – Optional for an extra burst of flavor in the glaze.

Each of these ingredients contributes to making the Chocolate Cherry Blossoms a festive treat that’s bound to become a holiday favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that your Chocolate Cherry Blossoms bake evenly and develop the perfect soft texture. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients, and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, which will help your cookies rise beautifully. Once combined, you’re ready to add the cherry juice, chopped maraschino cherries, and almond extract.

Step 3: Combine the Flavors
Add the cherry juice, chopped maraschino cherries, and almond extract into the creamed mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and you see a uniform color throughout the dough. This rich cherry-flavored base is what makes the Chocolate Cherry Blossoms so delightful. Make sure everything is blended seamlessly before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour to your dough mixture, stirring gently to combine. This step is important as you want the dough to form a soft, cohesive ball without overmixing, which can toughen the cookies. If the mixture appears too dry, feel free to add an extra splash of cherry juice until you achieve the right consistency.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the dough into approximately 1.5-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for spreading during baking. This spacing is vital for achieving perfect Chocolate Cherry Blossoms that don’t stick together as they bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when the edges are lightly golden brown while the centers remain soft. This contrast is essential for that delightful chewy texture characteristic of Chocolate Cherry Blossoms.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Once you’ve brought the cookies out of the oven, gently press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will cause the chocolate to soften perfectly, creating a gooey center that pairs beautifully with the cherry flavor. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for a moment before cooling.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’d like to add a sweet finish, prepare a glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of water or cherry juice and a drop of almond extract. Drizzle this glaze over your cooled Chocolate Cherry Blossoms for an extra touch of festive sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

Room Temperature: Keep your Chocolate Cherry Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful chewiness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Remember to place them in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container to avoid sticking, and thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: For warm and gooey Chocolate Cherry Blossoms, gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. Enjoy!

Chocolate Cherry Blossoms Variations

Feel free to adapt these delightful cookies to your tastes and preferences, ensuring each bite is just how you like it!

White Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate kisses with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor contrast.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds or walnuts into the dough for an enjoyable crunch and added flavor depth.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Fresh Bing Cherries: Use fresh, pitted Bing cherries instead of maraschino ones when in season for a lighter, fresher flavor.
Cherry Almond Essence: Increase the almond extract for a more pronounced flavor; it beautifully complements the cherries.
Colorful Sprinkles: Finish off your cooled cookies with festive sprinkles or colored sugar for a touch of holiday cheer.
Chocolate Drizzle: Create a chocolate drizzle by melting some chocolate and drizzling it over the cooled cookies for an extra decadent touch.

If you’re also looking for something to pair with your cookies, check out the festive charm of Pink Hot Chocolate – it’s a perfect companion for these delightful treats!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Chocolate Cherry Blossoms are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the rich flavors and soft texture, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking. The cookies can also be baked ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply press the chocolate kisses into the warm cookies as they come out of the oven, and enjoy the same mouthwatering taste with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

These delightful treats pair wonderfully with various sides, creating a complete holiday experience that warms the heart.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A creamy cup of hot chocolate adds a luxurious touch, perfect for enhancing the chocolatey goodness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smoothness of vanilla ice cream balances the tartness of cherry, creating a refreshing contrast with each bite of cookie.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens the plate and provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of sweet cookie.
Coffee or Espresso: Strong, bold coffee is an excellent companion, as its notes complement the sweetness of the Chocolate Cherry Blossoms elegantly.
Nutty Biscotti: Offering a crunchy texture, nutty biscotti can provide an interesting contrast to the chewy cookies, creating a varied dessert experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, spiced drink envelopes you in holiday flavors, with its warmth perfectly complementing the cozy feel of these festive cookies.
Marshmallow Fluff Dip: A sweet, creamy dip could create a fun experience for the kids, enhancing the flavor and texture when paired with the cookies.
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic drink that pairs beautifully with the cookies, making for a comforting and sweet afternoon treat for all ages.

Each of these pairings elevates the experience of enjoying your Chocolate Cherry Blossoms, creating moments of joy and celebration.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Blossoms

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature. This helps it blend smoothly with the sugar, resulting in the perfect cookie texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your dough only until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, diminishing the soft, chewy quality we adore in Chocolate Cherry Blossoms.
Cherry Juice Balance: If the dough feels too dry, add a little extra cherry juice. Too much moisture from fresh cherries can make the dough sticky, so be cautious!
Cookie Spacing: Leave adequate space between your dough balls on the baking sheet. This allows them to spread without merging, ensuring each cookie bakes beautifully.
Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Aim for golden edges while maintaining soft centers—a key feature of delectable Chocolate Cherry Blossoms.

Chocolate Cherry Blossoms Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For an authentic cherry flavor, I recommend using maraschino cherries, as they provide both sweetness and moisture. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, fresh cherries are a great substitute when they’re in season—just be sure to chop them finely and drain any excess moisture to keep your dough from becoming too sticky.

How should I store my Chocolate Cherry Blossoms?
You can store your Chocolate Cherry Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you notice them starting to dry out, placing a slice of bread in the container can help keep them moist longer. For extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months!

Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossoms? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossoms! To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to harden for 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-top bag, layering parchment paper between them to avoid sticking. They’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if the dough is too dry while making the cookies?
If you find that your cookie dough is too dry, don’t worry! Simply add an additional tablespoon of cherry juice at a time until the dough comes together smoothly. If you’re using fresh cherries, ensure they are well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture. Just mix gently to avoid overworking the dough!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you have nut allergies, it’s advisable to skip the almond extract and use vanilla instead, as both can be common allergens. Always check the packaging of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What can I add to enhance the flavor or texture of the cookies?
The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the dough for added texture. You can also swap the dark chocolate kisses for white chocolate or even peanut butter cups for a fun twist. And for an extra festive flair, consider adding a dash of food coloring to the dough for a more vibrant hue.