Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies: A Delectable Festive Treat
Brighten the holidays with these irresistible cherry and chocolate cookies topped with a signature Hershey's Kiss.
Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies: A Festive Delight For All Occasions
If you’re on the quest for a cookie that brings together the classic flavors of cherries and chocolate in a bite-sized treat, Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies are the answer. With their chewy, almond-flavored dough dotted with chopped maraschino cherries and topped with a delectable Hershey’s Kiss, these cookies are a showstopper for the holiday season and all year round.
What Makes Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies Special?
Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies blend the timeless appeal of cherry cordials and peanut butter blossoms into a unique dessert experience. The cookies are soft, buttery, and loaded with bursts of real cherries, while the chocolate Kiss on top adds a decadent finish. Their vibrant pink hue, thanks to maraschino cherries and their juice, makes for eye-catching treats that fit beautifully on any festive table or cookie exchange tray.
Ingredients
- Butter (unsalted, softened): Provides a rich, smooth base for the dough.
- Powdered Sugar (sifted): Offers subtle sweetness and a tender crumb.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor profile.
- Maraschino Cherries & Cherry Juice: Adds color, moisture, and a sweet-tart note.
- Almond Extract: Delivers a warm, fragrant aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour: Ensures structure and chewiness.
- Granulated Sugar: Used for rolling the dough, giving a sparkling finish.
- Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses: The signature chocolate center, added after baking for a gooey or firm finish depending on cooling time.
Ingredient Quantities
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter (unsalted, softened) | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Powdered Sugar (sifted) | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Maraschino Cherries (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Maraschino Cherry Liquid | 2 teaspoons |
| Pure Almond Extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Granulated Sugar (for rolling) | 1/2 cup |
| Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses | 48 pieces |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for even baking and easy removal. - Cream the Butter:
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter for at least 30 seconds until creamy and smooth. - Add Sugar and Salt:
Mix in the powdered sugar and salt. Beat until well combined for a light, fluffy consistency. - Flavor with Cherries:
Add maraschino cherry juice and almond extract. Mix well until integrated. - Incorporate the Flour:
Gradually beat in as much flour as your mixer allows. Stir in the remaining flour and the chopped cherries by hand for even distribution. - Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This keeps the cookies from spreading and preserves their shape. - Shape the Dough:
Using a tablespoon, scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Flatten each ball gently into a disk with your palm. - Coat in Sugar:
Roll each cookie dough disk in granulated sugar to give the baked cookies a subtle crunch and sparkle. - Arrange and Bake:
Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–14 minutes until the bottom edges are just lightly golden. Avoid overbaking; the centers should remain soft. - Top with a Kiss:
Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each hot cookie as soon as they come out of the oven. - Cool and Set:
Allow cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet, then carefully transfer to a cooling rack without disturbing the soft chocolate centers. Wait until the chocolate Kiss hardens before storing.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use real butter—substitutes may alter both flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Press the chocolate Kiss in immediately after baking—the residual heat gently melts the base for optimal adherence.
- Let cookies fully cool before storing to ensure the chocolate Kiss sets and cookies retain their shape.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
- These cookies are perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any special gathering.
- Arrange on a decorative platter for a striking dessert centerpiece.
- Great for cookie exchanges—pack in single layers with parchment in between to prevent sticking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Cookies can be frozen for longer shelf life; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Kisses: Try dark chocolate, caramel-filled, or cherry-flavored Hershey’s Kisses for a twist.
- Maraschino Cherries: Experiment with dried cherries for a more intense flavor and chewier texture.
- Extracts: Substitute or add a hint of vanilla, orange, or coconut extract for unique flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Sparkle Topping: Roll dough balls in sanding sugar for extra glimmer, especially during festive occasions.
Why These Cookies Are a Holiday Favorite
Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies are cherished for their:
- Vivid color—the pink hue from cherries makes them stand out on festive tables.
- Soft, chewy texture—thanks to butter and maraschino cherries.
- Rich, complementary flavors—almond, cherry, and chocolate are a timeless trio.
- Easy-to-make process—clear steps ensure great results even for beginner bakers.
Nutrition Information
Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size. For approximately 48 cookies (1 per serving):
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85–100 kcal |
| Fat | 4–5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12–14 g |
| Sugar | 7–8 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Sodium | 15–20 mg |
Values are approximate; consult nutrition labels for specific brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be chilled in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking. You can also freeze the dough balls (without rolling in sugar or flattening) for up to a month; thaw and proceed with baking instructions.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Be sure to thoroughly chill the dough, measure flour accurately, and avoid overmixing. Always bake on cool, lined sheets for consistent results.
Can I omit the almond extract?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla or another favorite extract, but almond extract gives a traditional flavor that pairs especially well with cherries.
Are these cookies suitable for mailing?
Absolutely! Once completely cooled and the chocolate is set, layer cookies between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container for safe mailing during holidays.
Do the cookies stay soft after storing?
Yes, due to the moisture from the cherries and the rich dough, these cookies remain soft and tender for several days when stored correctly.
Expert Tips for Impressing at Cookie Exchanges
- Decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles to match holiday themes.
- Pair with contrasting colored cookies for a visually appealing platter.
- Include serving tags indicating the key ingredients (cherry, almond, chocolate) for guests with food sensitivities.
- Print or handwrite the recipe—these cookies always draw requests for the method!
Related Festive Cookie Recipes
- Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies—Buttery cookies with a sweet-tart berry center.
- Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies—A peanut butter dough crowned with a chocolate Kiss.
- Chocolate Peppermint Blossom Cookies—Chocolate cookies with a cool peppermint twist, topped with a Kiss.
- Christmas Sandwich Cookies—Festive, filled cookies that are perfect for gifting.
More FAQs About Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies
Q: Can I use homemade cherry preserves instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Homemade cherry preserves can be used, but drain excess liquid to avoid overly wet dough and chop finely for even mixing.
Q: What is the best way to chop maraschino cherries?
A: Pat cherries dry with paper towels before chopping to reduce excess liquid. Use a sharp knife for neat pieces that distribute evenly in the dough.
Q: Can I store the baked cookies in the freezer?
A: Yes, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking tray to freeze, then transfer to a container with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
Q: Are these cookies gluten-free?
A: The classic recipe contains wheat flour, but a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: How long does it take for the chocolate Kiss to firm up?
A: Allow the cookies to cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate briefly to speed up the process.
Conclusion
Cherry Cordial Kiss Cookies bring the irresistible combination of cherries and chocolate to your next festive occasion. With simple steps, easy ingredient swaps, and tips for perfect texture and presentation, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether for gifting, sharing, or indulging with a mug of cocoa, every bite is a celebration of sweet, timeless flavors.
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