As the first blooms of spring begin to dance in the breeze, I find myself yearning for treats that capture that vibrant spirit. Enter my Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies, which blend the rich decadence of chocolate with the tart brightness of cherries. This delightful recipe is not only a charming addition to any spring gathering, but it’s also super quick to whip up—promising scrumptious cookies in under an hour! Whether you’re surprising loved ones or simply indulging on your own, these cookies are sure to impress with their gorgeous presentation and gourmet taste. Curious to see just how easy it is to bring a taste of spring to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Make Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Irresistible flavor: The delightful combination of rich chocolate and tangy cherries creates a unique dessert that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Quick preparation: With just under an hour from start to finish, you’ll have a batch of scrumptious cookies that are perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Visually stunning: The pink and white sanding sugar, along with optional cherry blossom petals, makes these cookies a showstopper for any spring occasion.
Versatile delights: Feel free to experiment! Swap out dried cherries for cranberries, or even try drizzling them with dark chocolate for a rich twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving these at a tea party or enjoying them at home, they are bound to be a hit with everyone. For more unique flavors and textures in your cookie lineup, also check out my delicious Chocolate Chip Banana Bars.
Easy to store: These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.
Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Ingredients
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For the Dough
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Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness in cookies; use margarine if dairy-free.
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Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the cookie’s texture; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
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Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; no direct substitution, but flax eggs can be used for a vegan version.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; use pure vanilla for better taste or almond extract for a different flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; for gluten-free options, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds that rich chocolate flavor which is essential for Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies; you can substitute with carob powder for a different taste.
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Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure freshness for best results.
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Salt – Balances sweetness; using sea salt can enhance flavor complexity.
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For the Add-ins
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Finely Chopped Dried Cherries – Provides sweet-tart flavor and texture; can replace with cranberries for similar tartness.
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Almond Extract (optional) – Supercharges cherry flavor; omit for nut-free recipes.
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For the Decorative Finish
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Pink and White Sanding Sugar – Adds visual appeal and crunch; regular sugar can substitute if unavailable.
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Melted White Chocolate (optional) – Drizzle over cookies for added sweetness; dark chocolate can be swapped for a richer taste.
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Edible Dried Cherry Blossom Petals (optional) – Offers an elegant garnish; can be omitted if you prefer simplicity.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creamy base is essential for your Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies, providing richness and a tender texture.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Extracts
Incorporate 2 large eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and, if using, ½ teaspoon of almond extract. This blend of flavors enhances the overall taste, making your cookies even more delightful.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mix provides the structure and chocolatey base for your cookies. Make sure to combine these ingredients thoroughly for even distribution.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cookies. Gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped dried cherries, which will add sweet-tart bursts of flavor in your Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial, as it prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking, leading to a perfect texture. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to have it ready for baking.
Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheets
Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly. Prepare your kitchen space so everything is ready for shaping the cookies when the dough is done chilling.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in pink and white sanding sugar to coat, giving the cookies an enchanting appearance. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, ensuring they maintain that delightful chewiness characteristic of Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Step 9: Cool
After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows them to firm up slightly before transferring. Gently move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Step 10: Garnish (optional)
For a special touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies, and if desired, sprinkle with edible dried cherry blossom petals. This finishing touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful sweetness, making your Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies truly stand out.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing, ensuring a smooth and creamy dough for your cookies.
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Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients; this keeps your Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies tender and chewy.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This step is crucial to prevent spreading during baking and enhances the final texture.
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Watch Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should remain soft in the center as they firm up while cooling.
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Decadent Variations: Feel free to experiment! Try adding orange zest or using dark chocolate for a richer flavor twist in your Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies.
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies
Indulging in sweet, cherry-infused delights opens the door to countless culinary pairings that enhance your experience.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cool ice cream contrasts beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful balance of textures.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness, slicing through the sweetness of the cookies while providing a burst of freshness.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Pair these cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate to elevate the cocoa flavor, making it a heavenly experience on chilly evenings.
- Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes of Earl Grey tea harmonize perfectly with the cherry flavors, elevating your tea time to an elegant occasion.
- Lemon Tart: For a zesty kick, serve alongside a tangy lemon tart that will delight your palate and provide a bright contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Keep it simple with sparkling water and a splash of lime; it cleanses the palate and lets the cookies shine.
- Honey Drizzled Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt with a drizzle of honey adds a tangy element that complements the sweetness of the cookies and keeps it light.
- Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Smoothie: Blend together chocolate, cherries, and yogurt for a unique smoothie that mirrors the flavors of the cookies in drink form.
- Chocolate Espresso Martini: For a sophisticated evening treat, pair these cookies with a chocolate espresso martini that amplifies their indulgent qualities.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in sanding sugar, and bake as directed. Additionally, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort on any day!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful while enjoying the delightful cherry and chocolate combination.
Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat, you can refrigerate the cookies for 1-2 weeks in an airtight container. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to refresh their soft texture before indulging in these Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies.
Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing these delightful cookies!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter to make these cookies suitable for lactose intolerance without sacrificing flavor.
- Nut-Free: Simply omit the almond extract and replace any optional nut toppings with seeds for a similar crunch.
- Whole Grain: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. The cookies will maintain their sweetness and charm!
- Vegan Delight: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to create a vegan version that’s just as delicious.
- Citrus Twist: Add zest from one orange or lemon to brighten the cookie’s flavor, creating a refreshing balance with the cherries.
- Rich Chocolate: Mix in some dark chocolate chips alongside the cherries for an even deeper chocolate flavor that every chocolate lover will adore.
- Texture Boost: Try adding rolled oats to the dough for an unexpected chewy texture that complements the softness of the cookies.
- Flavored Sugars: Experiment with other sanding sugar colors or flavored sugars—like lavender or rose—to take your garnish to a whole new level of elegance.
As you explore these delightful variations, don’t forget to check out my Dark Chocolate Coffin for an irresistibly rich dessert or my Dubai Chocolate Kataifi for an exotic twist on chocolate! Enjoy bringing your own flair to these springtime treats.
Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of cherries should I use for my Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your cookies, opt for finely chopped dried cherries. They provide that perfect sweet-tart balance that complements chocolate beautifully. If you can’t find dried cherries, you can substitute them with cranberries, which will offer a similar tartness and texture.
How long can I store Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up! If you’re looking to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.
Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies? How?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months! Here’s how: First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until solid. Then transfer the cookies into a zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy your treats by thawing them at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet bite!
I think my cookie dough is too sticky. What should I do?
Very! Cookie dough can sometimes be a tad sticky, especially due to humidity or incorrect measurements. If your dough feels too sticky to roll into balls, simply dust your hands and the work surface with a little flour. You can also refrigerate the dough for 15–20 minutes to make it easier to handle, which is especially beneficial for achieving that perfect shape while baking.
Are Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies suitable for vegans?
Definitely! To make these cookies vegan, simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Use dairy-free butter or margarine instead of unsalted butter, and you’re good to go! Enjoy this delightful spring treat while keeping your dietary preferences in mind!
Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies for a Sweet Spring Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate 2 large eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and, if using, ½ teaspoon of almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix just until combined, then gently fold in 1 cup of finely chopped dried cherries.
- Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and coat with pink and white sanding sugar before placing on baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers remain soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For a special touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies, and if desired, sprinkle with edible dried cherry blossom petals.
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