Name: Divine Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies You'll Crave!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (light and fluffy); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor); 2 tablespoons Maraschino Cherry Juice (adds color and flavor); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (or Vanilla/Cherry); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute if needed); 1 cup Chopped Maraschino Cherries (for sweetness); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for rolling); 24 pieces Hershey’s Kisses (for topping); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (for extra chocolatey taste); Sprinkles or Nuts (for texture and flair); Drizzle (melted chocolate for topping)

There’s something truly delightful about the first bite of a Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookie. The moment you sink your teeth into the soft, buttery cookie, the combination of cherry sweetness and rich chocolate melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more. I stumbled upon this charming recipe after a particularly busy week, yearning for a treat that felt special yet was simple enough to whip up in no time. Dressed with a Hershey’s Kiss on top, these cookies aren't just a feast for the taste buds; they also bring a beautiful pink hue to your dessert table, making them an ideal choice for festive occasions like Valentine’s Day and Christmas. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this beginner-friendly recipe offers room for creativity with flavor variations, letting you tailor each batch to your liking. Join me in creating these irresistible cookies that are perfect for sharing—or savoring all by yourself!

Why You'll Adore Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

Irresistible Combination: The chocolate and cherry flavors blend effortlessly, creating a unique and delicious treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Fun to Customize: Experiment with various extracts like vanilla or even flavored chocolate for a personalized twist on this classic cookie.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe ensures success with its straightforward steps and minimal ingredients.
Festive Appeal: With their charming pink hue and delightful chocolate topping, these cookies make a stunning addition to any dessert table during celebrations.
Quick to Prepare: In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies, making them a go-to choice for last-minute surprises.

Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients

• These delightful cookies combine an irresistible flavor and an eye-catching appearance!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy texture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Creates a light, fluffy cookie; perfectly sweetens without being overwhelming.
Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the dough.
Maraschino Cherry Juice – Adds a beautiful pink color and a hint of cherry flavor, crucial for chocolate cherry blossom cookies.
Almond Extract (or Vanilla/Cherry) – Invites a delightful undertone; feel free to choose your favorite flavor for personalization.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for dietary needs.
Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Infuses bursts of sweetness and texture in each bite.
Granulated Sugar – Creates a sweet crust when rolling the cookie dough before baking.
Hershey’s Kisses – The iconic chocolate topping that makes each cookie irresistible; explore cherry-flavored kisses for a richer experience.

Optional Enhancements

Chocolate Chips – Add a handful for an extra chocolatey boost and delightful gooeyness.
Sprinkles or Nuts – Roll the dough balls in sprinkles or chopped nuts for added texture and festive flair.
Drizzle – A chocolate drizzle over the cooled cookies can elevate their appearance and taste.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. This step ensures a tender cookie texture, so don’t rush it!
Mix in Flavors: Gradually add in the maraschino cherry juice and your chosen almond extract (or vanilla/cherry), blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The dough should have a lovely rosy hue at this point.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, creating a soft and slightly sticky dough. If it’s too wet, add a bit more flour until it's manageable.
Add Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for sweet bursts in every bite!
Shape and Chill: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them in granulated sugar, and place on a baking sheet. Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
Preheat Oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake: Place the chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, allowing room for spreading. Bake for 10 minutes, or until just set but not browned, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.
Finish with Chocolate: Once out of the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm. Allow the cookies to cool before serving, letting the chocolate become beautifully melty.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate after cooling for a delightful finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

Chill for Success: Always chill the dough. This step is crucial for keeping your cookies from spreading too much and helps achieve the perfect texture.
Choose Your Extract: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substituting almond extract for vanilla or cherry can add a unique twist to your chocolate cherry blossom cookies.
Dough Consistency: Watch the dough texture. If it's too sticky, gradually add extra flour—this will make rolling easier and create better cookies.
Timing is Key: Keep an eye on your baking time. Removing the cookies from the oven when they're just set ensures they'll remain soft and chewy.
Press in Kisses Carefully: When adding Hershey's Kisses, do it right after baking, while cookies are still warm. This allows the chocolate to melt perfectly into the cookie.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first five steps of the recipe and after rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar, place them on a lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven and simply bake the chilled dough balls directly from the fridge, pressing a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie immediately after they come out of the oven. This method ensures your cookies remain just as delicious and perfectly soft!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to a year. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Reheating: To enjoy fresh-tasting cookies, let the frozen chocolate cherry blossom cookies thaw completely, then reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes for a soft, warm treat.

Chocolate Cherry Blossom Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and make them your own!

Extract Switch: Replace almond extract with vanilla, cherry, or even coconut for a new flavor twist. Each option adds a unique aroma and taste that transforms the cookie completely.
Chocolate Alternatives: Use dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of Hershey’s Kisses. This enhances the richness of the cookies and complements the cherry flavor beautifully.
Fruity Updates: Incorporate diced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity burst, offering a fresh taste that pairs wonderfully with the cherry notes. The additional fruit adds a new dimension of sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and richness. The nuts provide a delightful, hearty texture that balances the softness of the cookie.
Spice It Up: Sprinkle in a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies a warm, comforting twist. These spices evoke cozy feelings and make the cookies perfect for holiday gatherings.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats at your next gathering. Be mindful of the flour's consistency for the best results.
Heat Level: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough. This unexpected heat can elevate the flavor, making your cookies truly unforgettable.
Frosting Finish: After baking, frost with a light cherry or vanilla glaze for an extra layer of sweetness. This adds a beautiful sheen and can complement a variety of flavor profiles beautifully.

What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies?

These charming treats are perfect for any occasion, bringing sweetness and a pop of color to your dessert table.

Cup of Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness, creating a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for afternoon chats.
Cherry Blossom Tea: This fragrant tea complements the cookie’s cherry notes beautifully, providing a lovely harmony of flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
Chocolate Drizzle: An extra touch of melted chocolate on top enhances the indulgence of these cherry cookies, making them even more irresistible.
Festive Fruit Platter: Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries and cherries for a refreshing, vibrant addition that plays up the cookie's flavors.
Milkshake: A chocolate cherry milkshake can be an indulgent pairing, amplifying the nostalgic flavors of this treat for lasting enjoyment.
Sprinkle Topping: Rolling the dough in colorful sprinkles before baking introduces a fun crunch and a festive flair to your table.
Nutty Biscotti: Crumbling buttery biscotti over the cookies in a dessert bowl brings a delightful crunch and extra texture to each bite.
Red Wine: For a more adult twist, a fruity red wine enhances the rich chocolate flavor while adding a touch of sophistication.
Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of light coconut whipped cream offers an exotic twist that pairs perfectly with the cherry richness.

Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! Look for maraschino cherries that are bright red without dark spots or excessive syrup. Select the ones that are firm, as they will maintain their texture better in the cookies. This will help you achieve that delightful burst of sweetness with each bite!

How can I store leftover cookies?
Very! Store your chocolate cherry blossom cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer longer storage, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze my cookies?
Of course! To freeze chocolate cherry blossom cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a couple of hours until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, ensuring they are stacked with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. They can be stored this way for up to a year!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels too sticky while mixing, gradually add in more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it's manageable. Keep in mind that the goal is for the dough to be soft but not overly sticky—this helps with shaping and rolling the cookies later.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Definitely! If you're catering to gluten-free diets, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the cherry juice and the Hershey’s Kisses are gluten-free certified if you’re using them for dietary needs. Also, for those allergic to nuts, be cautious with any extracts that may contain almond flavors.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen cookies?
Great question! To enjoy your frozen chocolate cherry blossom cookies again, let them thaw completely in the fridge or at room temperature. Once thawed, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat the cookies for about 5-10 minutes. This will help bring back that soft and chewy texture that makes them so delightful!