Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Mix in the maraschino
cherry juice, almond extract, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until evenly incorporated.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped
maraschino cherries gently.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat lightly. Place the
cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove from oven.
Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet
for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage:
Cherry Kiss Cookies are best served at room temperature and are perfect for dessert trays, cookie exchanges,
or festive celebrations.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months;
thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips:
- Chop the maraschino cherries finely to ensure even distribution in the dough.
- Roll dough balls evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Use softened butter for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Press the Hershey’s Kiss gently into the cookies to avoid cracking.
- Optional: add a few drops of extra cherry juice for more flavor and color intensity.
Conclusion:
Cherry Kiss Cookies are a delightful combination of chewy, sweet dough, tangy maraschino cherries, and classic
chocolate kisses. Their festive color and delicious flavor make them a favorite for holidays, parties, or
just a fun homemade treat.
With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, these cookies are easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
FAQ:
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but they may add extra moisture. Adjust flour slightly if the dough is too wet.
Can I substitute almond extract?
Yes, you can omit it or use additional vanilla extract, but almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes, just adjust baking time accordingly; smaller cookies will bake faster, larger ones need a bit longer.
Do the cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container.
Can I use dark chocolate or milk chocolate kisses?
Yes, any variety of Hershey’s Kisses works depending on your flavor preference.