Description

Make your cookie tray stand out with Cherry Kiss Cookies! These buttery, soft cookies are flavored with maraschino cherries and almond extract, then topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss. A delightful treat perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or any day you crave a sweet and festive dessert.

Ingredients

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1 cup butter, softened
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
6 drops red food coloring (optional)
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup chopped maraschino cherries
~30 Hershey’s chocolate Kisses, unwrapped

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt on low speed until blended. Increase speed to medium and cream until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Beat in maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and optional red food coloring. Stir in chopped maraschino cherries. Gradually mix in flour on low speed until just combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop and shape the dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 ½ tablespoons each). Place them on ungreased cookie sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown.

Step 3: Add the Hershey’s Kisses

Remove cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookies will crack slightly around the edges—this is normal.

Step 4: Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Avoid touching the Hershey’s Kisses until they’ve fully set, as they may lose their shape.

Notes

Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized cookies.
Pink Color: Red food coloring enhances the pink color, but the juice alone will give a subtle tint.
No Eggs or Leaveners: The recipe doesn’t call for eggs, baking powder, or baking soda, which gives the cookies their unique texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.