Cherry Blossom Cookies-Soft, Buttery Cookies Studded with Cherries and Crowned with Chocolate Kisses

Introduction

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic blossom cookie—swapping peanut butter for a buttery cherry base and topping each one with a Hershey’s Kiss for a chocolatey finish. With their soft pink hue, flecks of maraschino cherries, and whimsical chocolate centers, they’re as pretty as they are delicious.

Perfect for spring gatherings, Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or just a cheerful afternoon treat, these cookies are easy to make and guaranteed to brighten any dessert tray. The cherry juice and almond extract add a subtle floral note, while the sugar coating gives them a delicate sparkle.

Ingredients

To make about 24 cookies, you’ll need:

For the Dough

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
¼ tsp almond, vanilla, or cherry extract
2 to 2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

For Rolling and Topping

¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
24 Hershey Kisses, unwrapped

Optional add-ins:

2–3 drops red or pink food coloring for a deeper hue
½ tsp baking powder for a slightly puffier cookie
¼ cup mini chocolate chips folded into the dough

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, beat butter, salt, and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add cherry juice and extract; mix until smooth.
Add 2 cups of flour and mix on low speed until incorporated. Gradually add more flour, 1 tbsp at a time, until the dough is soft and pliable like playdough.
Gently fold in chopped cherries until evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill for at least 20 minutes to prevent spreading.

Step 3: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange chilled dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are no longer glossy.

Step 4: Add the Kiss

Immediately press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

Drain and dry cherries well to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Chill the dough balls to help the cookies hold their shape.
Unwrap kisses ahead of time so they’re ready to press in quickly.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even baking.
Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent melting the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tea, coffee, or sparkling lemonade.
Add to spring dessert platters with lemon bars and sugar cookies.
Package in gift boxes or jars for holidays and birthdays.
Pair with vanilla ice cream or cherry sorbet for a sweet finish.

Variations to Try

Chocolate Cherry Cookies: Add cocoa powder to the dough and use dark chocolate kisses.
Cherry Almond Thumbprints: Skip the kiss and fill the center with cherry preserves.
Cherry Coconut Blossoms: Add shredded coconut to the dough for texture.
Glazed Version: Drizzle with cherry glaze made from powdered sugar and cherry juice.
Nut-Free Option: Use vanilla extract instead of almond.

Storage & Freezing

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment for up to 2 months.
Freeze dough balls before baking—just thaw slightly and bake as directed.

Behind the Recipe

Cherry blossom cookies are a playful spin on the classic blossom cookie, inspired by the delicate beauty of spring and the nostalgic flavor of maraschino cherries. The combination of buttery dough, sweet cherry bits, and rich chocolate makes them a standout treat that’s both elegant and easy to make.

Conclusion

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are soft, sweet, and full of charm. With their vibrant cherry flavor, sparkling sugar coating, and chocolatey center, they’re a festive addition to any celebration—or a simple way to brighten your day.