Irresistible Cherry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Cherry Kiss Cookies are a delightful combination of buttery cookie dough, cherry flavors, and a chocolate kiss at the center. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa, these cookies are as pretty as they are delicious!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24-30 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tsp maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped
- 24–30 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
For Garnish (Optional):
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
- Red or pink sanding sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings:
- Mix in the maraschino cherry juice and almond extract until well incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
- Add the Chocolate Kiss:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Garnish:
- Dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar or sprinkle with sanding sugar for a festive touch.
Notes
- For variety, try different flavors of Hershey’s Kisses, such as dark chocolate, caramel-filled, or white chocolate.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These cookies freeze well for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
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