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There’s something enchanting about the vibrant hues of these Cherry Blossom Cookies that brings a hint of spring into every bite. I found myself in a sweet dilemma one afternoon, craving a treat that would bring warmth and nostalgia to the table, yet not overwhelm my busy schedule. That’s when inspiration struck—why not create cookies that celebrate the deliciousness of maraschino cherries?

Picture this: soft, buttery cookies infused with the essence of sweet cherries and a whisper of almond, finished off with a subtly melted Hershey kiss right in the center. These darling cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also make for a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a charming addition to your weekend baking or a delightful surprise for your family, these Cherry Blossom Cookies are the perfect answer to banish boredom and bring smiles to faces. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are Cherry Blossom Cookies a must-try?

Colorful and Fun: These cookies bring a splash of color and whimsy to your dessert table, making them perfect for any occasion.
Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of maraschino cherries and almond extract creates a delightful taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
Effortlessly Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have these cookies ready to impress without breaking a sweat.
Charming Presentation: The addition of a Hershey kiss not only adds sweetness but also creates an eye-catching treat that everyone will love.
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for your next gathering or family outing, and watch as they disappear in no time!

Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to whip up these delightful Cherry Blossom Cookies with ease!

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup butter – softened to room temperature for a creamy texture.
1 cup powdered sugar – ensures a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice – adds a fruity burst that makes these cookies sing.
¼ teaspoon almond extract – imparts a lovely nutty aroma and taste.
2 ½ cups flour – the essential base for your delicious cookie dough.
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries – adds delightful pockets of sweetness and color.

For the Topping

¼ cup sugar – for rolling the cookie balls, giving a delightful sparkle.
24 Hershey kisses – a creamy, chocolatey center that makes each cookie irresistible.
2 ounces chocolate chips – optional, for a decadent drizzle that enhances the cookie’s charm.

How to Make Cherry Blossom Cookies

Beat Together: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and well-combined. This will create the perfect base for your cookies, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Mix in Flavors: Add the maraschino cherry juice and almond extract, and mix well. Gradually fold in the flour, stirring gently until just combined to form a soft dough.
Fold in Cherries: Using a spatula, lovingly fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for delightful bursts of flavor in every bite.
Shape and Roll: Use a cookie scoop to portion out even-sized cookie balls. Then, roll them in sugar for added sparkle before placing them on a cookie tray, giving each one a touch of sweetness.
Chill the Dough: Once all the cookies are rolled, place the tray in the refrigerator to chill the dough for 20-30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Preheat & Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes or until slightly golden. They should be soft and fragrant!
Add the Kisses: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, transfer them to a cooling rack. Press a Hershey kiss into the center of each cookie, wiggling it slightly to get it to stick perfectly.
Optional Drizzle: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, transfer the chocolate to a small piping bag and drizzle over the tops of the cookies for a stunning finish.

Optional: Sprinkle with crushed nuts for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking process! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following all the mixing steps and chilling the dough in the refrigerator. If you want to prep even further, you can roll the cookie balls and coat them in sugar for a delightful touch, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and follow the baking instructions, pressing the Hershey kisses into the hot cookies right after pulling them from the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cookies with minimal effort and just as delicious results!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, these cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive the cookies, microwave them briefly for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. Enjoy the warmth of these delightful treats!

Cherry Blossom Cookies Variations

Feel free to experiment and make these delightful cookies your own with a little creative twist!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of traditional eggs for a plant-based treat.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair that beautifully complements the cherry flavor.
Extra Cherry Flavor: Mix in a few extra chopped maraschino cherries to amplify the fruity sweetness in every bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Substitute the Hershey kisses with chocolate-covered cherries for a double chocolate delight in the center.
Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm spice undertone that pairs wonderfully with the cherries.
Orange Zest: Grate some fresh orange zest into the dough to add a refreshing citrus note that brightens the cookie experience.

What to Serve with Cherry Blossom Cookies?

Create a delightful spread that transforms your cookie experience from sweet to sensational!

Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, the creamy richness perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies. It’s a childhood favorite that never fails to please.
Coffee or Tea: The warmth and depth of a good brew complement the cookie’s almond notes, making for an inviting afternoon treat. Sip while enjoying your cookies for a moment of pure bliss.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley adds a colorful contrast and lightness, enhancing the bright cherry flavor. Each bite becomes an exciting interplay of textures.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies atop a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert combo. The melting ice cream makes every bite indulgently delicious!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These fruity delights echo the cherry theme while adding a rich chocolate flavor. They create a charming combination that’s perfect for sharing.
Nutty Biscotti: For those needing a little crunch, biscotti brings a satisfying texture and a hint of flavor variety, making your dessert table even more appealing.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink option, lemony fizz cuts the sweetness just right. It’s uplifting and perfect for gatherings.
Fudge Brownies: Intensify the sweetness by offering fudgy brownies alongside your cookies. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cherry and almond flavors.
Cherry Syrup: Drizzle some cherry syrup on top of the cookies for an additional burst of flavor. It’s a fun twist that highlights the cherry essence beautifully!

Expert Tips for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Butter Consistency: Use softened butter, not melted. This helps the cookies retain their shape and gives a delightful texture.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they stay perfectly pillowy.
Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniformity. This ensures even baking and makes for a beautifully consistent batch of Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Pressing Kisses: Press the Hershey kisses into the cookies right after baking, while they’re still warm. This helps them stick better and also gives a lovely melted texture.
Optional Chocolate Drizzle: If adding a drizzle, allow cookies to cool first for easier handling. A piping bag helps create clean and elegant drizzles!

Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! Look for maraschino cherries that are vibrant in color, without dark spots all over. Ensure the jar is sealed tightly, and if possible, check the expiration date for the freshest cherries.

What’s the best way to store Cherry Blossom Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Yes! To freeze, first lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough seems overly sticky, it might be due to warm butter or humidity. Gently fold in a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a manageable consistency. Remember, chilling the dough also helps!

Can I make these cookies nut-free?
Very! Simply omit the almond extract in the recipe. If you’re also using any other almond-flavored ingredients, just ensure they’re nut-free or replace them with vanilla extract for a delicious alternative.

Is it safe for pets to be around maraschino cherries?
I recommend keeping these cookies away from pets, particularly dogs. The juices and sugars in maraschino cherries may not be healthy for them. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about including any specific human food in their diet.