Coconut Cherry Kiss Cookies
Deliciously chewy coconut cherry kisses, a sweet treat with buttery crunch, tropical coconut and bright maraschino cherries, perfect for holiday parties or a cozy dessert night.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine, cream cheese and sugar in a large mixer bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolk and vanilla; beat well.
- Combine flour, baking powder and salt, then gradually add to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in chopped cherries and 3 cups of coconut, then cover tightly.
- Chill for 1 hour or until firm enough to handle.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your margarine and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup. You can also swap out maraschino cherries for dried cherries or cranberries for a different flavor profile. Don't skip chilling the dough, as it helps in handling and shapes the cookies better.
Serving Suggestions
These Coconut Cherry Kiss Cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For special occasions, consider pairing them with a rich dessert like Last Minute Fudge or even alongside Christmas Cookies And Icing for a festive platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Cherry Kiss Cookies contains roughly 40 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but be sure to pit and chop them finely. You may want to reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly, as fresh cherries contain more moisture. This will help maintain the cookie's texture.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Coconut Cherry Kiss Cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help maintain the cookies' structure without sacrificing texture and taste.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle after chilling, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands and work surface. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for an additional 15-20 minutes to firm it up further before shaping and baking.
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).