Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, I get an undeniable craving for something sweet that captures that delicate essence of spring. These Cherry Blossom Cookies, studded with tangy maraschino cherries and a delicious surprise of dark chocolate, are a delightful way to welcome the season. Not only are they fun and quick to whip up, but they also offer a gorgeous touch to any gathering, from vibrant brunches to cozy family dinners. The scent that wafts through the kitchen as they bake will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite! Plus, with a simple vegan option, these cookies can cater to a variety of dietary needs. Are you ready to dive into an homage to spring that’s not to be missed? Why are Cherry Blossom Cookies so special? Sweetly Unique: These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful combination of flavors that capture the essence of spring. Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time, perfect for those busy days! Versatile Option: Not only do they shine at gatherings, but they also feature a vegan option for inclusivity. Irresistible Texture: Soft and chewy with a gooey dark chocolate center, every bite is a sweet surprise. Enjoy them at brunch or sneak one as a late-night snack—these cookies are sure to impress! If you’re also looking for more delightful cookie ideas, check out my Mango Cookies Delightful and Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies. Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough Butter – Provides richness and moisture in the cookies; substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan version. Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth glaze. Maraschino Cherry Juice – Enhances flavor with a sweet, fruity tang; opt for fresh cherry juice if available. Finely Chopped Maraschino Cherries – Adds texture and a burst of flavor; dried cherries work well for a chewier cookie. Almond Flavoring – Contributes a nutty aroma and flavor; you can replace it with vanilla extract. All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookie; cannot be substituted without altering the texture. Dark Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – Provides a rich chocolate middle; substitute with vegan chocolate for a dairy-free option. For the Glaze Confectioners’ Sugar – Creates a shiny finish for the cookies. Water – Helps achieve the desired glaze consistency; adjust for thickness. Almond Flavoring – Adds flavor to the glaze; can be substituted with vanilla extract. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blossom Cookies Step 1: Cream Mixture In a large mixing bowl, begin by creaming 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of confectioners’ sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Use a handheld or stand mixer on medium speed for best results. This buttery base creates the perfect foundation for your delicious Cherry Blossom Cookies! Step 2: Flavor Addition Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice and 1 teaspoon of almond flavoring, mixing until everything is well combined. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The mixture will take on a lovely pink hue, infusing the cookies with a sweet cherry essence that beautifully complements the flavors. Step 3: Dough Formation Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula for even distribution. Aim for a cohesive dough that holds together but remains slightly sticky; this texture will ensure your Cherry Blossom Cookies bake perfectly. Step 4: Shape Cookies Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie. Once all the cookies are shaped, chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture while baking! Step 5: Baking Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is chilled, bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges and soft in the center. As soon as they come out of the oven, gently press a dark chocolate Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie for a melty surprise. Step 6: Glaze Preparation While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of water, and ½ teaspoon of almond flavoring in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, adjusting the water until you reach your desired consistency. This glaze will add a lovely finishing touch to your Cherry Blossom Cookies. Step 7: Glaze Application Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once they are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully in this delightful spring treat. Make Ahead Options These Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time and effort on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll the dough into balls and refrigerate them. This chilling step not only enhances the flavors but also helps achieve that ideal texture. For extra convenience, you can even freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls directly onto a baking sheet, allowing an extra minute or two of baking time. Once cooled, drizzle them with glaze just before serving to keep them looking and tasting fresh! What to Serve with Cherry Blossom Cookies? Elevate your cherry-infused treats into a delightful meal by pairing them with light and refreshing flavors that dance on the palate. Lemonade Spritzer: A bubbly citrus drink that brightens up the sweetness of the cookies. The acidity from the lemon refreshes your palate after each sweet bite. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and blueberries provides a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and cherry flavor. It’s a light, vibrant addition to your dessert spread. Almond Biscotti: This crunchy treat harmonizes beautifully with the nutty undertones of the cookies. Dip them in coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon accompaniment. Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy, lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a luscious creaminess that complements the chewy texture of the cookies. It makes for a decadent yet simple serving suggestion! Berry Sorbet: A refreshing scoop of berry sorbet not only adds a pop of color but also cleanses the palate, balancing the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully. Iced Green Tea: A chilled cup of jasmine or mint-infused iced tea keeps things light and refreshing, enhancing the floral notes in the cookies while providing a soothing drink option. Dark Chocolate Drizzled Strawberries: These are a perfect pairing, echoing the chocolate kisses in the cookies while adding a fresh, juicy element. The contrast of textures and flavors will surely delight your guests. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a creamy, dreamy chocolate milkshake that celebrates the rich chocolate in the Cherry Blossom Cookies. This pairing creates a nostalgia of childhood treats—absolutely irresistible! Mini Cheesecakes: Petite cheesecakes topped with cherry or a classic fruit blend echo the cherry notes in your cookies, creating a themed dessert plate that impresses any gathering. Indulge in this delightful combo for a well-rounded dessert experience! Expert Tips for Cherry Blossom Cookies Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature. Cold butter can prevent proper creaming, resulting in dense cookies. Dough Consistency: If your dough is too dry, a splash of cherry juice will help. Conversely, if it’s sticky, add a little more flour. This keeps your Cherry Blossom Cookies just right! Chill Time: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step is key to achieving the perfect texture and shape during baking, preventing the cookies from spreading too much. Pressing Chocolate: Press the dark chocolate kisses into the cookies immediately after baking while they are still warm. This ensures they melt slightly, creating a delicious gooey center. Glazing Technique: Allow cookies to fully cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off. A well-set glaze adds a beautiful finish to your Cherry Blossom Cookies. Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to one week, and glazing should be done after they’re cooled to avoid sticking! How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies Fridge: Store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful freshness. Freezer: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their soft, gooey texture. Cherry Blossom Cookies: Customization Ideas Feel free to make these Cherry Blossom Cookies your own with a few simple tweaks and variations! Vegan Alternative: Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use vegan chocolate for a delightful dairy-free option. Nut-Free Delight: Use vanilla extract instead of almond flavoring for a nut-free version perfect for those with allergies. Cherry Swap: If maraschino cherries aren’t your favorite, try dried cherries for a chewier texture and a lovely chewy bite. Choco-Lover’s Twist: Replace dark chocolate Hershey’s Kisses with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a sweeter surprise that kids will adore. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch and delicious nuttiness, enhancing the overall flavor. Fruity Addition: Add a splash of orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note that complements the cherries beautifully. Spice It Up: For a cozy hint of warmth, mix in a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg—this fragrant addition is perfect in spring. Decorative Glaze: Instead of a plain glaze, consider adding a tint of food coloring to match the cherry blossom theme, making your cookies truly festive! If you’re exploring more sweet ideas, don’t miss checking out my Velvet Crinkle Cookies and No-Bake Keto Cookies for delightful alternatives! Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs What cherries should I use for the best flavor? For the best flavor in your Cherry Blossom Cookies, use fresh maraschino cherries if possible. However, if they’re not available, the jarred version works wonderfully! Just make sure they are still bright and vibrant without any dark spots or mushiness, as this could affect the taste. How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh? Store your Cherry Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’ve added the glaze, ensure it has fully set before stacking them, or they may stick together! Keeping them sealed helps maintain their delightful flavor and texture. Can I freeze Cherry Blossom Cookies? Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Blossom Cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. What if my dough feels too dry or sticky? If your dough feels too dry, don’t worry! Just add a splash more of the maraschino cherry juice, one teaspoon at a time, mixing until it comes together nicely. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little additional flour until the dough achieves a soft but manageable consistency. Getting the texture just right is key to perfect cookies! Can people with nut allergies enjoy these cookies? Yes, but you’ll need to make a simple adjustment! Since this recipe includes almond flavoring, you can easily replace it with pure vanilla extract to ensure it’s nut-free. Your Cherry Blossom Cookies will still be just as delightful and should be safe for those with nut allergies. Always double-check the ingredients if allergies are a concern! How can I make these cookies vegan? To modify the Cherry Blossom Cookies for a vegan diet, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, use non-dairy dark chocolate and ensure your confectioners’ sugar is free from bone char. Follow the same recipe steps, and you’ll have delicious vegan cookies that everyone can enjoy! Cherry Blossom Cookies: Spring's Sweet Cherry Delight Delight in the essence of spring with these Cherry Blossom Cookies, featuring tangy maraschino cherries and rich dark chocolate. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChill Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 cup Butter Softened; substitute with plant-based butter for vegan version.1.5 cups Confectioners’ Sugar Adds sweetness and creates a smooth glaze.2 tablespoons Maraschino Cherry Juice Enhances flavor with sweet, fruity tang.1 cup Finely Chopped Maraschino Cherries Can substitute with dried cherries for a chewier cookie.1 teaspoon Almond Flavoring Can replace with vanilla extract.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Main structure of the cookie.12 pieces Dark Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses Use vegan chocolate for a dairy-free option.For the Glaze1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar Creates a shiny finish for the cookies.2 tablespoons Water Adjust for thickness.0.5 teaspoon Almond Flavoring Can substitute with vanilla extract. Equipment Mixing bowlHandheld mixerBaking sheetParchment paperSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry Blossom CookiesIn a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.Stir in 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice and 1 teaspoon of almond flavoring until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries.Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Press a dark chocolate Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie.Prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of water, and ½ teaspoon of almond flavoring until smooth.Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then drizzle glaze over them after cooling completely. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. If freezing, use parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking. Let thaw at room temperature before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
