Description
These Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delicious and visually stunning treat, with the sweet and tart flavor of maraschino cherries, almond extract, and a chewy texture. Topped with a maraschino cherry, they are perfect for spring celebrations like Easter or any cozy gathering. The subtle almond flavor pairs perfectly with the juicy cherry and rich white chocolate, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
12 whole maraschino cherries for topping
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (or cherry juice)
1/2 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips (optional)
For garnish (optional):
12 whole maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes). Add the egg and beat until fully combined. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and cherry juice. If using white chocolate, fold that in too.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press a whole maraschino cherry into the center of each dough ball.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations: Add chopped almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture, or swap maraschino cherries for dried or fresh cherries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies, Spring Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 190 kcal
