Cherry Kiss Cookies

Indulge in the delightful combination of buttery cookies filled with maraschino cherries and topped with a sweet chocolate kiss. These Cherry Kiss Cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. The rich flavors of almond extract and maraschino cherry juice create a unique and irresistible taste.
2. With minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings.
3. These cookies are ideal for meal prep and can be stored for several days, making them a convenient option for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredient Notes:

• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cookies.
• Powdered sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Maraschino cherry juice: Infuses a subtle cherry flavor into the dough.
• Almond extract: Adds a hint of almond flavor to complement the cherries.
• Red food coloring (optional): Gives the cookies a vibrant hue.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough.
• Maraschino cherries: Chopped cherries add bursts of fruitiness.
• Milk chocolate kisses: A sweet and creamy topping for the cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add salt, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and red food coloring (if using) to the mixture.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms, then fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
4. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
5. Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after removing them from the oven.

Helpful Tips:

• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping to prevent spreading during baking.
• For a festive touch, use green food coloring along with the red for a red and green color scheme.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use high-quality chocolate kisses for the best flavor and appearance.
2. Experiment with different flavors of extracts, such as vanilla or coconut, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy these Cherry Kiss Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To maintain freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat briefly in the microwave to soften the chocolate kiss before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

• Fresh cherries can be substituted, but the texture and flavor may vary.

1. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.

1. Can I omit the almond extract?

• While almond extract adds a distinct flavor, you can omit it or substitute with another extract of your choice.

1. How many cookies does this recipe yield?

• This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of the dough balls.

Conclusion:

Treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible Cherry Kiss Cookies and savor the delightful combination of flavors in every bite. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Try this recipe today and share your feedback with us!

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