Delicious Cherry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Introduction and Key Insights

Cherry Kiss Cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and elegance. These delightful treats combine the tartness of cherries with the rich creaminess of chocolate kisses, creating a cookie that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie topped with a luscious chocolate kiss and a juicy cherry piece – pure bliss! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and your family, these cookies are sure to impress.

The beauty of Cherry Kiss Cookies lies in their versatility. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping cherries for other fruits like raspberries or strawberries. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough for seasoned bakers looking to impress guests at gatherings. The ingredients are easy to find in your local grocery store, making this an accessible recipe for everyone.

In this article, we will walk you through the essential ingredients needed and provide detailed instructions on how to prepare these delightful cookies. We will also share tips on serving and storing them to ensure they remain fresh and delicious. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake some incredible Cherry Kiss Cookies that will become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients Overview for Cherry Kiss Cookies

All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour forms the base of our Cherry Kiss Cookies. It gives structure to the dough while allowing it to maintain its softness. For this recipe, you’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Granulated Sugar

Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that perfect chewy texture in your cookies. For this recipe, use 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. You can adjust the amount slightly if you prefer a less sweet cookie.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar not only enhances sweetness but also contributes moisture due to its molasses content. This results in a softer cookie with richer flavor. You’ll need 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar for this recipe.

Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter is essential for achieving rich flavor and tenderness in your cookies. It should be at room temperature for easy mixing. Use 1/2 cup (or one stick) of unsalted butter in this recipe.

Eggs

One large egg binds all the ingredients together while providing moisture that keeps the cookies soft. Ensure the egg is at room temperature before adding it to your mixture for better incorporation.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cookies. You’ll need 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract; avoid imitation vanilla if possible as it doesn’t provide the same quality taste.

Baking Soda

Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping your cookies rise slightly during baking without making them overly fluffy. Use 1 teaspoon of baking soda in this recipe.

Salt

A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in your cookies without making them taste salty. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance out the sweetness from other ingredients.

Cherries

Fresh or frozen cherries bring tartness and color to your cookies. For this recipe, chop about 1 cup of pitted cherries; if using frozen cherries, ensure they are thawed and drained well.

Chocolate Kisses

Chocolate kisses are the crowning glory on top of each cookie, providing an irresistible chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with cherries. You’ll need about 24 chocolate kisses – one for each cookie!

How to Prepare Cherry Kiss Cookies

Step One: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly from start to finish. While waiting for it to heat up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later on.

Step Two: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined; this step helps ensure even distribution when mixed into wet ingredients later on.

Step Three: Cream Together Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, add room-temperature unsalted butter along with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed or a sturdy wooden spoon works well here; beat until light and fluffy—approximately 2-3 minutes should suffice.

Step Four: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once you’ve creamed together your butters and sugars successfully, add one large egg along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the mixture next—mix until fully incorporated again before moving forward!

Step Five: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your flour mixture from earlier into this wet mix—doing so slowly prevents clumping which could lead uneven textures within each cookie batch! Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead tough results instead of soft ones!

Step Six: Fold In Cherries

Now it’s time fold chopped cherries gently into dough mixture ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout without breaking apart too much during process! This allows every bite experience both cherry flavor surprise alongside lovely softness from dough itself!

Step Seven: Scoop & Shape Dough Balls

Using either tablespoon measurement scoop out roughly equal portions onto prepared baking sheets—aiming for about two inches apart since they will spread slightly while baking! If desired sprinkle tops lightly with additional granulated sugar before proceeding onward!

Step Eight: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place trays inside preheated oven allowing them bake approximately 10-12 minutes until edges appear golden brown while centers remain soft! Keep an eye on them; every oven varies so check around minute mark just ensure nothing burns unexpectedly either!

Step Nine: Add Chocolate Kisses

After removing trays from oven allow cooling slightly before placing one unwrapped chocolate kiss atop center each warm cookie—it’ll melt slightly giving beautiful appearance plus added taste sensation when biting into later!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Kiss Cookies are best served warm fresh out from oven; however they still taste delightful once cooled down too! Pair these delectable treats alongside glass milk or scoop vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence while enjoying company friends family alike—perfect any gathering festive occasion especially holiday parties where sweetness matters most!

For an elegant presentation during gatherings consider stacking several layered plates adorned colorful decorations like sprigs mint leaves alongside few whole cherries nearby—this elevates overall visual appeal making them truly stand out table setting inviting everyone indulge right away!

Storing Your Cookies Properly

To maintain freshness store uneaten Cherry Kiss Cookies inside airtight container at room temperature away direct sunlight heat sources such as ovens stoves which could cause them dry out prematurely rather than remaining delightfully chewy consistency intended originally! These typically last around one week if properly sealed—but trust me they’ll likely disappear much faster than that thanks their irresistible nature alone!

If you’d like preserve longer duration consider freezing leftover batches instead wrapping tightly plastic wrap placing freezer bags label date contents accordingly—you can enjoy these scrumptious delights later anytime craving strikes without sacrificing flavor freshness whatsoever!

Mistakes to avoid

When baking Cherry Kiss Cookies, one of the most common mistakes is not measuring the ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small deviations can lead to disappointing results. For example, using too much flour can result in dry cookies, while insufficient sugar might yield overly bland treats. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons, and consider weighing ingredients for precision.

Another frequent error occurs when people overlook the importance of creaming butter and sugar together thoroughly. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a lighter texture in your cookies. If you rush this step or skip it altogether, your Cherry Kiss Cookies may turn out dense and heavy. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency before adding the other ingredients.

Underbaking is another pitfall to avoid. While you might be tempted to take your cookies out of the oven early for a softer texture, this can result in raw centers that will not firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on your baking time and perform the toothpick test to ensure they are fully cooked.

Additionally, neglecting to chill the dough can impact the final product’s texture. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and helps prevent spreading during baking. If you skip this crucial step, you may end up with flat cookies that lack structure. Make sure to refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping it onto a baking sheet.

Lastly, don’t forget about proper storage after baking! Storing your Cherry Kiss Cookies improperly can make them stale or soggy quickly. Use an airtight container at room temperature for short-term storage or freeze any extras for a treat later on.

Tips and tricks

When making perfect Cherry Kiss Cookies, one essential tip is to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for pure vanilla extract instead of imitation vanilla for richer flavor, and choose fresh cherries when they’re in season for optimal taste. Quality matters immensely in baking and can elevate your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary.

Another helpful trick is to use parchment paper on your baking sheets. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking, resulting in beautifully shaped cookies every time. If you don’t have parchment paper available, consider using silicone baking mats as an alternative.

To achieve that signature cherry flavor in every bite, finely chop some cherries instead of simply using whole ones as toppings or decorations. Mixing chopped cherries into the dough distributes their flavor more evenly throughout each cookie while also adding delightful bursts of juiciness.

Equipment plays an important role in cookie-making success as well. Invest in a good cookie scoop; it will help you portion uniform balls of dough that bake evenly without requiring extra effort on your part. Using a digital kitchen scale can also assist with precise measurements.

Lastly, experiment with variations! Adding nuts or different types of chocolate can create exciting twists on traditional Cherry Kiss Cookies. Don’t hesitate to try almond extract instead of vanilla or substitute white chocolate chips for added sweetness; these adjustments may become new favorites.

Suggestions for Cherry Kiss Cookies

When preparing Cherry Kiss Cookies, consider adjusting the recipe based on dietary preferences or restrictions. For gluten-sensitive individuals, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work wonders without compromising taste or texture if done correctly.

If you’re looking for healthier options, try reducing the amount of sugar used in the recipe by substituting half with applesauce or mashed bananas; this can result in moist cookies while lowering calorie intake significantly.

Incorporating oats into your cookie batter adds additional fiber while providing chewy texture contrasts—perfect if you are seeking heartier bites! Combine rolled oats with traditional flour to achieve a delightful balance between crispness and chewiness.

For those who prefer less sweetness but still want that cherry essence shining through, consider pairing dark chocolate kisses instead of milk chocolate ones; they offer rich flavors without overpowering the natural taste of cherries present within each cookie.

Lastly, think about presentation! Drizzling melted chocolate over cooled cookies not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds another layer of deliciousness that pairs beautifully with cherries’ tartness—an excellent touch whether serving guests or enjoying solo!

FAQs

What are Cherry Kiss Cookies?

Cherry Kiss Cookies are delicious treats featuring a soft cookie base topped with a cherry-flavored chocolate kiss candy. They typically combine basic ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and eggs along with chopped cherries or cherry extract for enhanced flavor profiles.

How do I store Cherry Kiss Cookies?

To keep your freshly baked Cherry Kiss Cookies at their best quality longer than just a day or two post-baking: store them in an airtight container at room temperature away from direct sunlight! For extended freshness beyond several days freezing them works wonderfully too—just thaw when ready!

Can I substitute fresh cherries with dried ones?

Yes! If fresh cherries aren’t available at your local market (or if you want something easier), feel free to use dried cherries instead—their concentrated sweetness adds unique flavors while maintaining overall cherry essence within each cookie!

What’s the best way to freeze Cherry Kiss Cookies?

To freeze these delightful cookies properly: allow them first cool completely then arrange them into single layers within an airtight freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper! This technique avoids sticking together during storage time so they remain intact until ready-to-eat again later.

Are there any allergens in Cherry Kiss Cookies?

Cherry Kiss Cookies usually contain common allergens like wheat (in all-purpose flour), dairy (from butter), eggs (binding agent) & chocolate (often includes dairy). Always check ingredient labels if preparing food for anyone with specific allergies!

How long do Cherry Kiss Cookies last?

When stored correctly at room temperature inside an airtight container: expect these flavorful delights lasting anywhere between five days up to one week! Freezing extends shelf life significantly further—upwards towards three months without losing quality!

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering Cherry Kiss Cookies involves avoiding common pitfalls such as inaccurate measurements and neglecting key steps like chilling dough or creaming ingredients properly. By following tips like using high-quality products and experimenting with variations creatively while considering dietary needs enhances both flavor profiles and overall enjoyment during consumption times!

Don’t forget about proper storage methods post-baking which help maintain freshness longer than just few days after making them—ensuring maximum satisfaction whenever indulging yourself later down road too! With these insights combined together into practice produces delicious outcomes worth sharing among family friends alike!

Remember always strive toward perfection through thoughtful planning preparation—from selecting suitable materials right through serving ideas designed impressively too—all contribute toward achieving ultimate success creating unforgettable experiences around tasty treats known fondly now widely referred simply as “Cherry Kiss Cookies”.

Delicious Cherry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Print Recipe

Cherry Kiss Cookies are festive, colorful treats featuring a soft, buttery cookie flavored with maraschino cherries and a delightful chocolate Hershey’s Kiss in the center. These cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations, Valentine’s Day, or any time you want a sweet and charming dessert!

• Author: Amelia Recipes
• 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 1x2x3x

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
• Pink or red 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 combined.
• Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
  • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the finely 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 for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
• Add the Hershey’s 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 to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Optional Garnish:
  • Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with sanding sugar for a festive touch.

Notes

• For a flavor twist, use Hershey’s Kisses in different varieties, like dark chocolate, white chocolate, or caramel-filled.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Keywords: Cherry Kiss Cookies, maraschino cherry cookies, Hershey’s Kiss cookies, holiday cookie recipe, pink cookies, festive cookies, cherry chocolate cookies, Valentine’s Day treats, Christmas cookie exchange, easy cookie recipe.