Description
Cherry Blossom Cookies are delicate, soft, and subtly sweet, inspired by the beauty and flavors of spring. These cookies typically feature a buttery dough infused with almond extract, giving them a slightly nutty flavor that complements the sweet, chewy dried cherries placed in the center. The cherries add a tart contrast to the buttery sweetness of the cookie base, while the light almond notes elevate the overall flavor profile. The cookies may be lightly dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, making them a lovely treat for springtime or festive occasions. Their gentle sweetness and delightful texture make them a refreshing and charming option for any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough. Be sure to measure the flour correctly for the best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft and chewy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the cookies.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter creates the rich, soft texture of the cookies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps the cookies spread.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together and gives the cookies structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor and depth to the dough.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (or dried cherries): These cherries give the cookies their distinctive flavor and color.
- 1/4 cup cherry juice (from the maraschino cherries or fresh cherry juice): Adds moisture and a hint of cherry flavor to the dough.
For the Cherry Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons cherry juice: Used to flavor the glaze and enhance the cherry flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty note that pairs well with the cherries.
For Decoration (optional):
- Sprinkles: Colorful sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
- Extra chopped cherries: For garnishing the cookies.
Instructions
STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN AND PREPARE BAKING SHEETS
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking. This will help ensure an even bake and make cleanup easier.
STEP 2: COMBINE DRY INGREDIENTS
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients help provide structure to the dough and ensure your cookies bake evenly. Set the bowl aside.
STEP 3: CREAM BUTTER AND SUGAR
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. Cream the mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a smooth and airy dough.
STEP 4: ADD EGG AND VANILLA
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and well combined.
STEP 5: INCORPORATE DRY INGREDIENTS
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, and smooth.
STEP 6: ADD CHERRIES AND CHERRY JUICE
Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries (or dried cherries) and cherry juice. The dough will take on a pinkish hue from the cherries, which is one of the signature features of these cookies. Mix until the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
STEP 7: SCOOP AND FORM DOUGH BALLS
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This will allow the cookies to spread slightly as they bake without touching each other.
STEP 8: BAKE THE COOKIES
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they appear a little underdone in the center. Keep a close eye on them during the last couple of minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
STEP 9: COOL AND DECORATE
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with a cherry glaze, sprinkles, or extra chopped cherries.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes baking
Nutrition
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 1g