Name: Cherry Blossom Cookies Amazing Easy Sweet Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt (Drain cherries thoroughly to avoid excess moisture); 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and well-drained; 24 pieces chocolate kiss candies (Press while cookies are still warm)

Introduction to Cherry Blossom Cookies

When you think of delightful treats, cherry blossom cookies are a sweet and charming option that truly stands out. These delightful cookies merge the rich, buttery flavor of classic cookies with the unique taste of maraschino cherries and the surprise of a chocolate kiss right in the center. The result is a fun and tasty twist perfect for any occasion.

What makes cherry blossom cookies a delightful treat? For one, the chewy texture paired with the burst of tartness from the cherries makes each bite memorable. Plus, their vibrant pink hue and chocolatey topping bring an element of whimsy and joy, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy night in.

Did you know that the cherry blossom tree holds deep cultural significance in countries like Japan? These cookies are inspired by that very beauty, offering a sweet tribute in the form of an easy-to-make dessert. Each cookie carries the essence of springtime joy, reminding us of the fleeting yet beautiful moments in life.

So, if you're looking to impress family and friends with a simple yet delightful treat, these cherry blossom cookies are the perfect solution! Dive into the recipe and bring a bit of springtime sweetness to your kitchen.

Ingredients for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookies

When crafting your delightful cherry blossom cookies, having the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need to create these amazing treats:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar for that perfect sweetness
½ cup brown sugar to add depth and moisture
1 egg to bind the ingredients together
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a rich flavor
½ teaspoon almond extract to evoke that signature cherry blossom essence
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour for the perfect cookie base
½ teaspoon baking soda to create lift
¼ teaspoon salt to enhance all the flavors
½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped and well-drained
24 chocolate kiss candies for a sweet finish

Ensure your cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of your cookies.

Optional additions for enhanced flavor

Want to take your cherry blossom cookies to the next level? Consider these tasty additions:

Chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for added crunch
Coconut flakes to introduce a tropical flair
White chocolate chips for extra sweetness and creaminess
Sprinkles for a fun, festive look

These simple tweaks can transform your cookies, making them uniquely yours! Feel free to experiment and discover your perfect combination. For more inspiration, check out resources like the Kitchn for great baking ideas that pair well with this recipe.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Cherry Blossom Cookies

Baking shouldn’t feel daunting, especially when you’re whipping up a batch of cherry blossom cookies. These treats come together easily, making them perfect for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting. Let's dive right in!

Gather your ingredients

Before we even think about turning on the oven, let’s gather all the essentials you’ll need:

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup maraschino cherries (chopped and well-drained)
24 chocolate kiss candies

By setting everything out first, you’ll ensure a smooth baking process!

Cream the butter and sugars

Once you’re all set, the next step is to cream yourself some cookies. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes around 3-4 minutes. The reason this step is essential? It introduces air into the mixture, giving your cookies a nice, soft texture!

Incorporate the egg and extracts

Now, it’s time to give your butter and sugar mixture a little more personality. Add in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. Those extracts will bring an incredible aroma, reminiscent of spring! Mix until smooth.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed, keeping your cookies from ending up flat. Once mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together.

Fold in the cherries

Here’s where those chopped maraschino cherries really shine. Gently fold them into your dough, ensuring even distribution. Remember: well-drained cherries are key to avoiding excess moisture which can make your cookies soggy.

Shape and place on baking sheet

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper about 2 inches apart—these cookies will spread just a bit as they bake.

Bake to perfection

With the oven preheated to 350°F, it’s time to bake! Pop them in for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want them to remain soft!

Add the chocolate kisses

The moment your cookies come out of the oven, take your chocolate kisses and press one firmly but gently into the center of each cookie. They'll melt slightly, creating a beautiful chocolate center.

Cool and enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows them to firm up a bit, giving you that perfect chewy texture. Enjoy your delightful cherry blossom cookies with friends, family, or maybe just a warm cup of coffee—because you deserve it!

Feel free to explore more about cookie baking techniques and ingredient substitutions for a fun baking adventure! Wouldn’t it be a blast to try out these cookies with some different fruit options as well? Happy baking!

Variations on Cherry Blossom Cookies

Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

For all the chocolate lovers out there, adding cocoa powder to your cherry blossom cookies can elevate them to heavenly, chocolatey delights. Simply substitute ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with cocoa powder and fold in miniature chocolate chips along with the maraschino cherries. The result? A cookie that perfectly balances rich chocolate with fruity sweetness, making every bite utterly scrumptious!

Nutty Cherry Blossom Cookies

If you enjoy a little crunch, consider incorporating nuts into your cookie dough. Chopped walnuts or almonds add a delightful texture and enhance the flavor profile of your cherry blossom cookies. Just mix in about ½ cup of your favorite chopped nuts before baking the cookies for an added layer of depth. It’s a simple twist that transforms these cookies into a delightful nutty treat, perfect for sharing with friends during cozy gatherings or enjoying as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ready to get baking and explore these yummy variations? Let your creativity flow in the kitchen!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Blossom Cookies

How to avoid sticky dough

To prevent your cherry blossom cookies dough from becoming too sticky, be sure to chill it for about 15-30 minutes. This helps solidify the butter and makes it easier to work with. Additionally, always measure your flour correctly; using a spoon to fluff the flour before scooping can help avoid excess moisture. If you find the dough is still a bit sticky after chilling, dust your hands and the work surface lightly with flour.

Tips for keeping cookies chewy

For cookies that stay soft and chewy, avoid overbaking. Keep a close eye on them, and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges start to turn golden. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack is crucial; this allows them to set perfectly. You might also consider adding a bit more brown sugar for added moisture and flavor—it's a simple tweak that makes a big difference!

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

Treat yourself to the delightful experience of enjoying cherry blossom cookies with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. The buttery, almond-infused cookies pair beautifully with a smooth latte or a fragrant green tea. The subtle sweetness of the cookies complements the aromatic flavors of your drink, creating a perfect afternoon snack.

Presenting for Special Occasions

Want to impress guests? Present your cherry blossom cookies on a decorative platter at your next gathering. Add a few fresh cherries or edible flowers for a lovely touch. These cookies not only taste delightful but also bring a vibrant pop of color to any dessert table. Whether it’s a birthday, garden party, or a simple brunch, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit!

Time Breakdown for Cherry Blossom Cookies

Preparation Time
Get ready to mix up some magic! You'll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the dough.

Baking Time
Once your dough balls are ready, they’ll bake to perfection in just 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that golden edge.

Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at roughly 32 minutes from start to finish for these delightful cherry blossom cookies. Perfect for a quick treat!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Blossom Cookies

When it comes to enjoying cherry blossom cookies, understanding the nutritional profile can help you indulge wisely. Each cookie contains approximately:

Calories per cookie: 140
Sugar content: 11g

Beyond that, here are additional key nutritional facts to consider:

Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 80mg

These delightful treats offer a balance of sweetness and flavor, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it. Want to learn more about staying mindful with dessert choices? Check out Healthline’s guide on natural sweeteners for healthier alternatives!

FAQs about Cherry Blossom Cookies

Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Baking is often about improvisation. You can replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative to make these cherry blossom cookies vegan. If you don’t have almond extract on hand, feel free to use more vanilla extract or a splash of cherry extract for an extra burst of flavor. Not a fan of maraschino cherries? Chopped dried cherries or cranberries work well too!

How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cherry blossom cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies with parchment paper in a freezer bag, and they can last up to three months! Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.

What if my cookies spread too much?
If your cherry blossom cookies spread excessively, it might be due to warm dough or too much moisture from the cherries. Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking, and ensure your cherries are thoroughly drained. If your cookies are still spreading, consider adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the dough.

Conclusion on Cherry Blossom Cookies

In summary, these delightful cherry blossom cookies offer a delightful mix of sweetness and flavor, perfect for any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal ingredients, they are a must-try! Treat yourself and your loved ones to this charming sweet treat; you won’t be disappointed!