Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are my ultimate go-to when I’m spreading holiday cheer or simply craving something sweet and nostalgic. The vibrant red color and the gentle hint of chocolate make these cookies an absolute showstopper at any gathering. Whenever I bake them, the smell wafts through my kitchen, inviting family and friends to indulge in a delightful treat. Join me as we whip up a batch of these oh-so-charming cookies!
Table of Contents
The Sweet Story Behind Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
Every holiday season, my family has a tradition of baking cookies together, and Red Velvet Blossom Cookies hold a special place in our hearts. It all started one chilly December when my grandmother decided to mix things up with a twist on classic chocolate chip cookies. We were captivated by the rich red color and elegant simplicity of the Hershey’s Kiss perched on top. After that, it became our favorite festive treat, a symbol of both togetherness and celebration.
Each time we whip up a batch, we gather in the warmth of our kitchen, sharing stories, laughter, and, of course, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies. The vibrant hue reminds me of joy and warmth, which we pour into every cookie. I also like to keep a few in a decorative tin, bringing them as gifts to our neighbors, a sweet way to connect and share smiles.
These cookies truly embody the spirit of giving and the magic of the season. If you want to savor a piece of this heartfelt tradition, let’s bake together some Holiday Cookies!
Why These Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Work
Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are not just visually stunning; they are also packed with flavors that keep everyone coming back for more. The slightly tangy flavor of the cocoa powder pairs perfectly with the rich sweetness of the sugars, while the burst of cocoa gives them a unique depth. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
Rich Ingredients for a Decadent Treat
Our essential ingredients include all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, which form the foundation of these rich cookies. The combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates the perfect blend of texture and flavor, while the butter adds moisture and richness. The egg binds everything together, ensuring a soft and chewy cookie. Don’t forget the red food coloring, which gives these cookies their stunning appearance!
Cooking Technique for Perfect Cookies
Creaming the butter and sugars together is crucial. This step incorporates air into the dough, producing wonderfully airy cookies that melt in your mouth. It’s essential to combine the wet and dry ingredients without overmixing; mixing just until combined ensures a tender cookie that doesn’t get tough.
Garnishing for Added Touch
The final touch of pressing a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie right after baking brings a special magic. The chocolate melts slightly, creating a warm, gooey center that contrasts perfectly with the soft-cookie texture. Plus, you can jazz them up with sprinkles for a festive flair! Baking is about creativity and making lasting memories, and I can’t think of a better dessert than these cookies to embody that spirit.
Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or simply filling your cookie jar, these easy homemade goodies will undoubtedly impress. Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
Now that we’ve covered the delightful backstory and why this recipe works, it’s time to get baking! I promise you’ll love every bit of making these cookies. Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until combined.
| Dry Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa | 1/2 cup |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar until fluffy. The texture should be light and airy.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. Create Indentations
Press down in the center of each ball to create a small indentation for the Hershey’s Kiss.
8. Bake and Add the Hershey’s Kisses
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. When you take them out of the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
9. Cool Before Enjoying
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Don’t forget to sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top!
Helpful Tips
For an even better texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and results in a firmer cookie. You can also store uncooked dough in the fridge for up to a week, making this a great make-ahead treat!
Creative Variations & Serving Ideas
The beauty of Red Velvet Blossom Cookies lies in their versatility! While they’re delicious as-is, I love experimenting with different variations and serving methods that can elevate this classic treat.
Add Nuts or Chips
Add Nuts or Chips
Toss in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. Or, for those who can’t get enough chocolate, consider swapping out the Hershey’s Kisses for chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a milder sweetness.
| Variations | Description |
|---|---|
| Nuts | Adds crunch and depth |
| Chips | Swap Hershey’s for chocolate or white chocolate |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Top with a light frosting for extra indulgence |
Frosting Options
Speaking of toppings, you could elevate your cookies by frosting them with a cream cheese frosting! It adds a creamy tang that plays beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie.
Pairing Suggestions
These cookies pair fabulously with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a twist, serve them with some Iced Coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Gift-Giving Ideas
Consider repackaging these cookies in beautiful tins with some twine or decorative paper. They make heartwarming gifts for friends, neighbors, and teachers during the holidays. Share the love and joy of delicious homemade cookies!
Final Thoughts on Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are one of those special recipes that hold more than just great flavor; they hold memories too. With each cookie, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also creating new experiences with loved ones. As you gather in your kitchen, savor the happiness that comes from baking and sharing. So, whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night at home, let these cookies bring a moment of joy to your day. Join me in exploring more delightful recipes, like Vegan Cranberry Almond Shortbread Cookies that are equally heartwarming! For more baking inspiration, feel free to check out my collection on Pinterest!
FAQ
Can I make these cookies without food coloring?
Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the food coloring, you can simply make classic cocoa cookies that are delicious. They’ll still hold their fabulous taste without the vibrant red color.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them and thaw as needed.
Can I use different toppings instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
Definitely! Feel free to top these cookies with chocolate chips, caramel squares, or even a dollop of frosting for a unique twist. Your creativity knows no bounds.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Red Velvet Blossom Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure it’s a blend designed for baking to ensure the best results.
What other flavors can I add to the cookies?
You can experiment by adding flavors like almond extract, cinnamon, or even orange zest to create exciting flavor variations. The options are endless when it comes to personalizing your cookies!
Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
Indulge in these soft, chewy Red Velvet Blossom Cookies topped with a molten Hershey’s Kiss, perfect for celebrating any festive occasion.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Hershey’s Kisses
- Festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture; mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and create indentations in the center for the Hershey’s Kisses.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then press a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie immediately after removing from the oven.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack and adding festive sprinkles if desired.
Notes
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for a firmer texture. Uncooked dough can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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