Cherry Chocolate Kisses
Delight in these cherry chocolate kisses, soft cookies infused with cherry flavor and topped with rich chocolate kisses, perfect for holidays, parties, or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine softened margarine or butter, powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, almond extract, and a few drops of red food coloring; blend well.
- Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup, level off, then stir in flour and salt. Add chopped maraschino cherries and mix well.
- Form dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned around edges.
- Immediately top each cookie with a chocolate kiss.
- Remove cookies from cookie sheets and cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce sweetness, decrease the powdered sugar slightly. You can substitute the maraschino cherries with dried cherries for a different texture, but be sure to adjust the moisture in the dough. Adding a pinch of cocoa powder can enhance the chocolate flavor of the kisses.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider serving them alongside a light dessert like Strawberry Romaine Salad for balance. They also make a fantastic addition to holiday cookie platters, adding a pop of color and flavor to your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Chocolate Kisses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven to restore softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Chocolate Kisses contains roughly 21 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of extract instead of almond?
Yes, you can substitute almond extract with vanilla or even coconut extract for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still result in delicious cookies.
How can I make these cookies more festive for holidays?
To make these cookies more festive, you can add colored sprinkles or festive-themed decorations on top of the chocolate kisses before they set. Additionally, using red and green food coloring can enhance their holiday appeal.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the cookies even tastier when baked. Just remember to bring the dough to room temperature before rolling into balls.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).