Cherry Blossom Cookies offer a perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, inspired by the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms. These cookies have a soft, chewy texture, and are topped with a maraschino cherry for a beautiful touch.

FULL RECIPE:

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes). Add the egg and mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
3. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.
4. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, and white chocolate (if using).
5. Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Press a whole maraschino cherry into each dough ball.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutrients

• Calories: 145
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1g

The Origins of Cherry Blossom Cookies

The concept of cherry blossom-inspired desserts draws from the tradition of celebrating cherry blossoms, or sakura, in many parts of the world. In Japan, the cherry blossom season (Hanami) marks the arrival of spring and is a time of beauty, renewal, and festivity. The idea of incorporating cherries into a dessert honors this natural wonder and brings the essence of the cherry blossom season into culinary form. Though these cookies may not be an ancient traditional recipe, their vibrant cherry flavor and light, springtime appearance make them a perfect way to celebrate the season. 

Why You’ll Love Cherry Blossom Cookies

What makes Cherry Blossom Cookies so delightful? It’s their perfect balance of sweetness, softness, and the unique cherry-flavored twist that makes them stand out from traditional cookies. The use of maraschino cherries, both chopped and whole, adds a colorful and visually appealing touch that mimics the pink petals of a cherry blossom. The dough itself is a classic cookie base but is enhanced with almond extract, which complements the cherry flavor and brings a subtle, nutty depth to the overall taste. 

Perfect for Every Occasion

Cherry Blossom Cookies are ideal for a variety of events and settings. Their light, pastel look makes them a perfect treat for springtime celebrations such as Easter, baby showers, or even a spring-themed tea party. The cookies also work well as a dessert for birthdays, family gatherings, or a sweet snack during afternoon coffee breaks. Their bright appearance makes them a great option for events that require a festive atmosphere, such as holiday dinners or graduation parties.

Healthier Than You Think?

While Cherry Blossom Cookies are undeniably sweet, they can also be a relatively guilt-free treat when consumed in moderation. Maraschino cherries, though often seen as a sugary addition, do offer some benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, and consuming them can have several health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and promoting heart health. Though maraschino cherries are typically preserved in syrup, they still retain many of the beneficial properties of fresh cherries. Furthermore, almond extract, another key ingredient in the recipe, contains compounds that may have antioxidant properties, and the use of unsalted butter provides a slight reduction in sodium content. While cookies should always be enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and fat content, Cherry Blossom Cookies do offer a unique twist on classic desserts that include ingredients with beneficial properties.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Blossom Cookies

Making the perfect batch of Cherry Blossom Cookies isn’t too difficult, but there are a few tips that will ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure your butter is softened and your egg is at room temperature before starting the dough. This will help achieve a smooth, cohesive batter and prevent clumps in the dough. 
2. Chill the Dough – While not mandatory, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. This also allows the flavors to meld together, making for a more flavorful cookie. 
3. Don’t Overbake – Cookies can quickly go from soft and chewy to overdone and crunchy. Keep an eye on your Cherry Blossom Cookies as they bake, and remove them from the oven once the edges are slightly golden. They will continue to set as they cool. 
4. Customize the Toppings – If you want to add an extra layer of sweetness or sophistication, consider drizzling white chocolate over the baked cookies or adding a handful of white chocolate chips into the dough. You can also experiment with other dried fruits or chopped nuts for a different flavor profile. 
5. Quality of Maraschino Cherries – The maraschino cherries you use can make a significant difference in the flavor and overall appearance of your cookies. Opt for high-quality maraschino cherries without artificial coloring and excessive sugar. You may even consider using fresh cherries if you want to elevate the flavor, although they might alter the texture of the dough slightly. 

How to Store Cherry Blossom Cookies

Storing your Cherry Blossom Cookies properly will help them retain their soft texture and freshness. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to preserve them for a longer period, you can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

Conclusion:

Cherry Blossom Cookies offer a wonderful way to celebrate spring and indulge in a sweet treat. With their soft texture, sweet cherry flavor, and delightful almond undertones, they are sure to become a favorite addition to any dessert repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply enjoy a flavorful snack at home, these cookies are versatile, easy to make, and above all, delicious. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also a delightful culinary treat that brings the spirit of cherry blossoms into your kitchen.