Introduction to Cherry Kiss Cookies
Cherry kiss cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the rich, creamy taste of chocolate kisses. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly soft and chewy, making them a favorite among homemade dessert lovers.
The Joy of Baking Cherry Kiss Cookies
Baking can be a therapeutic activity, especially when you’re creating something as delicious as cherry kiss cookies. The process of mixing ingredients, shaping the dough, and watching them rise in the oven brings a sense of satisfaction that few things can match. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for a taste!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet cherries and chocolate creates a harmonious balance that makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them at home, cherry kiss cookies are sure to impress. So, why not gather your ingredients and experience the joy of baking these delicious cookies today? You won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients
Butter
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This key ingredient provides moisture and richness, ensuring that your cookies are soft and chewy. The butter also contributes to the overall flavor, making each bite delectable.
Sugars
1 cup granulated sugar & 1 cup brown sugar, packed: The combination of these sugars creates a perfect balance of sweetness and depth. Granulated sugar helps the cookies spread, while brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Eggs
2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent in the dough, helping to create a cohesive structure. They also add richness and moisture, contributing to the cookies’ chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies, adding a warm and inviting aroma. It’s a must-have for achieving that classic cookie taste.
All-Purpose Flour
4 cups all-purpose flour: Flour is the backbone of the cookie dough, providing structure. The right amount ensures the cookies are neither too dense nor too crumbly.
Baking Soda
1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and gives them a light texture. It also aids in browning, contributing to that lovely golden color.
Salt
1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt amplifies the sweetness and balances flavors, making the cookies taste even better. It’s a small but crucial addition.
Maraschino Cherries
1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped: These sweet, vibrant cherries add a burst of flavor and color to the cookies, making them visually appealing and deliciously fruity.
Chocolate Kisses
36 chocolate kisses, unwrapped: The iconic topping of these cookies, chocolate kisses provide a rich, creamy chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the cherry base.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherry kiss cookies are an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that make them a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of soft, chewy cookie dough and sweet maraschino cherries, topped with rich chocolate kisses, creates a delightful bite that’s hard to resist. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also look beautiful on any dessert platter, making them perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
A Perfect Balance of Sweetness
These cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, thanks to the cherries. The chocolate kisses add a creamy richness that complements the fruity flavor beautifully. Each cookie is like a mini celebration, bringing joy to your taste buds with every bite.
Quick and Easy to Make
For busy young professionals, the simplicity of this recipe is a huge plus. With only 20 minutes of prep time and a total of 32 minutes to enjoy fresh cookies, this recipe fits perfectly into a hectic schedule. You can whip up a batch of cherry kiss cookies in no time, satisfying both your sweet tooth and your time constraints.
These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a delightful baking adventure!
Variations
Substitutions
Cherry kiss cookies are wonderfully versatile! If you want to make a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. For a lower-sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar, ensuring that the consistency remains intact.
Add-ins
Feel free to get creative with add-ins! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can provide an extra crunch. You could also incorporate white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a unique twist. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also add interesting textures to each bite.
Seasonal Twists
Change up the flavors based on the season! In the fall, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice profile. During the winter holidays, you could even swap the maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or use peppermint kisses instead of chocolate kisses for a festive flair. These seasonal twists can make your cherry kiss cookies a year-round delight!
Cooking Tips and Notes
Baking Tips
When making cherry kiss cookies, be sure to use softened butter for the best creaming results. This will help incorporate air into the dough, leading to a lighter texture. Remember to preheat your oven, as this ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown color on the edges.
Cooling and Storing
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them set properly and maintain their shape. To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy them later!
Experiment with Flavors
Don’t hesitate to customize your cherry kiss cookies! Consider adding a pinch of almond extract for a unique flavor twist, or experiment with different types of chocolate kisses. These subtle changes can elevate the cookie experience and make them even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry kiss cookies are not only delicious on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments for an elevated experience. For a delightful afternoon treat, serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite coffee. The rich chocolate and sweet cherries harmonize beautifully with the warm beverage, creating a cozy snack.
Creative Pairings
Consider presenting these cookies at parties with a platter of assorted desserts. They can be paired with ice cream for a delightful sundae. Just crumble a cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream, and enjoy a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Adding a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of nuts can enhance the presentation and taste even more.
Special Occasions
For special occasions, these cookies can be decorated with colorful icing or sprinkles to match the theme of the event. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or casual get-together, cherry kiss cookies are sure to be a hit. The vibrant colors and fun shapes will attract guests, making them a memorable part of your dessert table.
Time Breakdown
Preparation
Prepare your ingredients and equipment in about 20 minutes. This includes softening the butter and chopping the cherries.
Cooking/Baking
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they have a nice golden color.
Total
From start to finish, you can enjoy fresh cherry kiss cookies in just 32 minutes. This quick timeframe makes it easy to whip up a batch even on a busy day!
Nutritional Facts
Cherry kiss cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide some nutritional insights. Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a delightful indulgence without going overboard. With 15g of sugar and 2g of protein, they offer a nice balance of sweetness and energy.
Additionally, each cookie has 7g of fat, including 4g of saturated fat. While they do contain some sodium at 150mg, the presence of maraschino cherries and chocolate kisses adds a fun twist to your dessert choices. Enjoy these cookies as a treat, keeping in mind their nutritional values to maintain a balanced diet!
FAQ
What are Cherry Kiss Cookies?
Cherry kiss cookies are delightful treats that feature a soft and chewy cookie base, enhanced with sweet maraschino cherries and topped with a chocolate kiss. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress with their delicious flavor combination.
How do I store them?
To keep your cherry kiss cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness and prevent them from becoming stale. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze cherry kiss cookies! Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to scoop and shape. Additionally, you can lightly flour your hands and the surface when handling the dough to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Cherry kiss cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of maraschino cherries with the rich taste of chocolate kisses. These cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a fun and festive appearance, making them ideal for any occasion.
As you prepare to bake these delicious cookies, remember that they’re not just a dessert; they’re a way to create joyful memories with friends and family. With a total time of just 32 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch even on your busiest days.
So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, cherry kiss cookies are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and enjoy every bite of these scrumptious cookies! Cook, save, and share this recipe with your loved ones for a delightful baking adventure.
Print
Cherry Kiss Cookies
Deliciously soft and chewy cherry kiss cookies topped with a chocolate kiss!
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 36 chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the chopped cherries.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Remove from oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- For a festive touch, use colored chocolate kisses on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg