Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries, topped with a sweet chocolate kiss. These soft, buttery cookies are infused with maraschino cherry juice and almond extract, giving them a unique and irresistible taste. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2⅓ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shortening (such as Crisco®)
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
4 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice
4 drops red food coloring
¾ teaspoon almond extract
⅛ teaspoon cherry flavoring (optional)
¾ cup drained, chopped maraschino cherries
48 milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the shortening and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Add the maraschino cherry juice, red food coloring, almond extract, and cherry flavoring (if using); mix well.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie upon removing them from the oven.
Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 100
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 1mg
Sodium: 28mg
Total Carbohydrates: 11g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 1g

The Origin of Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies

Chocolate and cherries have been a classic pairing in desserts for decades, often seen in Black Forest cakes, cherry cordials, and chocolate-dipped cherries. The idea of incorporating these flavors into a cookie format is a creative twist that brings together the nostalgia of holiday baking with the indulgence of chocolate-covered cherries.

Inspired by the well-loved peanut butter blossom cookies, where a chocolate kiss is pressed into a peanut butter cookie, this variation swaps peanut butter for cherry-flavored dough. The result is a beautifully pink, cherry-infused cookie topped with a rich chocolate center. This combination has made Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies a favorite among those who love both fruity and chocolatey desserts.

Why These Cookies Are So Popular

These cookies have become a favorite for many reasons:

Unique Flavor: The combination of cherries, almond extract, and chocolate creates a flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly tangy.
Beautiful Presentation: The pink color of the dough paired with the chocolate kiss on top makes these cookies visually stunning.
Soft and Chewy Texture: The dough remains soft thanks to the cherry juice, while the chocolate kiss adds a creamy bite.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Their festive look makes them ideal for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, bridal showers, or even birthday parties.
Easy to Customize: With a few modifications, these cookies can be adapted to different flavor preferences and dietary needs.

Best Occasions to Serve Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies

These cookies are versatile and fit many different occasions, making them a go-to recipe for bakers who love to share homemade treats. Some of the best times to serve them include:

Holidays: Their red or pink hue makes them perfect for Christmas and Valentine’s Day.
Cookie Exchanges: They stand out in holiday cookie swaps and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Parties and Gatherings: These cookies are great for potlucks, baby showers, and family get-togethers.
Gift Boxes: Their beautiful appearance makes them ideal for homemade gift baskets.
Everyday Treats: Even without a special occasion, these cookies make for a wonderful sweet snack to enjoy with coffee or tea.

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies

To ensure these cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these expert tips:

Use High-Quality Chocolate Kisses: The chocolate topping is a key component of these cookies, so using good-quality chocolate will enhance the overall taste.
Drain the Cherries Well: Excess moisture from maraschino cherries can make the dough too wet. Be sure to drain and pat them dry before adding them to the mixture.
Chill the Dough If Needed: If the dough becomes too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes will help it firm up and make it easier to roll into balls.
Press the Chocolate Kiss at the Right Time: The best time to add the chocolate kiss is right after the cookies come out of the oven. The residual heat will soften the chocolate slightly, allowing it to adhere without melting completely.
Store Properly: To maintain their texture and flavor, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

Storing and Preserving Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies

To keep these cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key.

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to five days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Refrigeration: If you prefer firmer cookies, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies are delicious as is, there are many ways to customize them to suit your preferences:

Dark Chocolate Kiss Cookies: Swap milk chocolate kisses for dark chocolate ones for a richer taste.
White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate kisses or drizzle white chocolate over the cookies for a contrast in flavor.
Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: Instead of placing a chocolate kiss on top, mix chocolate chips into the dough for an even distribution of chocolate in every bite.
Nutty Cherry Cookies: Add finely chopped almonds or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Pairing Suggestions

These cookies pair well with a variety of beverages and desserts, making them even more enjoyable. Some great pairings include:

Hot Chocolate: The rich cocoa flavor complements the cherry notes in the cookies.
Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Berry Sorbet: A tangy berry sorbet enhances the fruity elements of the cookies.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds—sweet cherries and rich chocolate. Their soft texture, vibrant color, and irresistible flavor make them a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you bake them for a holiday celebration, a party, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.

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