Introduction
Baking has always been a way for me to express love and creativity. The aroma of cookies wafting through the house is like a warm hug on a chilly day, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings and sweet moments shared over treats. When it comes to comfort desserts, nothing beats the vibrant allure of red. That’s why I absolutely adore these delightful delights that infuse a sense of festivity into any gathering. These little gems are not just cookies; they are bursts of joy and color that brighten up the mood.
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms are a charming twist on classic cookies, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and a hint of red velvet fluffiness topped with an unmistakable chocolate kiss. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a self-care moment, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home, just like they have in mine.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help ensure your baking experience is smooth and fun. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your outcome.
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: This will help you achieve the perfect creaming of your butter and sugar.
- Mixing bowls: A couple of sturdy bowls will keep your ingredients organized.
- Baking sheet: Opt for a large size that can hold all your cookie creations.
- Parchment paper: This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key when baking, so use proper tools for the best results.
Having these simple yet crucial items on hand will not only aid in the recipe process but will also enhance your overall baking joy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe embodies everything that we love about baking—convenience, creativity, and, most importantly, flavor. The delicious combination of rich cocoa paired with the soft, cake-like texture evokes a sense of nostalgia. Plus, the eye-catching red color brings an undeniable charm that can elevate any dessert table.
When you bite into a Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossom, the dance between soft cookie and gooey chocolate kiss is pure bliss. Each mouthful is reminiscent of taking a step back into childhood where sweets meant happiness. Here are some more reasons to love this recipe:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up a batch effortlessly.
- Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, these cookies add a delightful pop of color.
- Comfort Food: The blend of chocolate and vanilla invokes a comforting warmth that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Treat: They can be enjoyed as lunchbox surprises, neighborhood gifts, or cozy family nights.
Let your kitchen be filled with laughter and delicious aromas as you embark on this delightful baking adventure.
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Ingredients
Creating these gorgeous cookies is as much fun as enjoying them later. Here’s what you’ll need to gather from your pantry:
- 7 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted, softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp red food coloring gel
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup red sanding sugar
- 18 Hershey chocolate kisses
Ensure you have everything measured and ready to go. This not only speeds up the baking process but also adds to the delight of preparing these treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter takes on a beautiful red hue.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out 18 equally sized balls of cookie dough. Roll them between your palms to form smooth balls before rolling them in the red sanding sugar.
- Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until the edges are set.
- Immediately upon removing them from the oven, press a Hershey chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a cooling rack.
Fun Variations You Can Try
While the classic Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms are absolutely delightful, there are plenty of creative twists you can put on this recipe to keep things interesting. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Cream Cheese Center: Swap out the chocolate kiss for a dollop of cream cheese frosting to enhance the red velvet flavor.
- Different Colors: Use other food coloring gels to create a variety of colored cookies for festive occasions.
- Mint Chocolate Kiss: Instead of Hershey chocolate kisses, use mint-flavored ones for a refreshing twist.
- Frosting: After cooling, drizzle some cream cheese frosting over the tops of the cookies for an extra flavor boost.
- Dairy-Free Options: Substitute dairy-free butter and chocolate kisses to accommodate any dietary restrictions.
Let your creativity flow, and make these blossoms uniquely yours.
How I Love to Serve It
When it comes to serving these delightful cookies, presentation is key. I love arranging them on a simple white platter to really let that red color pop! They can be a star on a dessert table at parties or simply enjoyed with a cozy cup of hot cocoa on a chilly evening.
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, you could set out a small bowl of milk for dipping. The combination of warm cookies and cold milk creates a wonderful contrast, enhancing the experience.
Additionally, serving these at gatherings can spark joy. I always feel that cookies encourage sharing and community. The warm, inviting atmosphere created while enjoying treats with loved ones is one of life’s most simple pleasures.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
As you embark on making your batch of Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms, here are some tips that have helped me achieve the best results:
- Temperature of Butter: Ensure your butter is soft but not melted. This helps achieve the right texture when creaming with sugar.
- Measurement Matters: Always measure your flour correctly; spoon it into your measuring cup, leveling it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough seems too sticky, you can chill it for about 15-20 minutes before rolling. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary; start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a bit before transferring to a cooling rack. This helps them set properly.
It’s all about small tweaks that can elevate your baking game!
Important Cooking Reminders
Here are some key reminders to ensure your baking experience goes off without a hitch:
- Safety First: Always use oven mitts when handling hot trays to prevent burns.
- Reheating: If you have leftover cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh-baked texture.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for the best quality.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Ingredient Substitution Caution: If substituting ingredients, be mindful as it can affect texture and flavor.
Proper attention to these tips will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
Enjoying these treats doesn’t mean you can’t be aware of what you’re indulging in. Each cookie brings sweetness and joy, but it’s good to know the basics about what you’re consuming.
In an approximate serving of one cookie, you can expect:
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
These estimates ensure you can savor your cookies while maintaining a balance in your nutrition.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
Common Questions You Might Have
Can I use regular food coloring?
Absolutely! While gel food coloring gives a richer hue, liquid food coloring works just fine. Just be cautious not to add too much as it can alter the dough’s texture.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This usually works well without altering the taste too much.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Simply let them cool completely, then store them in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months and are wonderful to pull out when you need a quick treat.
Conclusion
As you take a moment to savor your delicious batch of Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms, let the warm flavors wrap around you like a cherished memory. It’s not just about baking cookies; it’s about creating moments of joy, whether alone or surrounded by loved ones. Each bite offers a delightful sweetness that reminds us of the simple pleasures in life. The allure of the melting Hershey’s kiss paired with the soft, rich cookie is a delightful experience in every sense.
Don’t be surprised if these red velvet delights become a staple in your home. Baking is not just a task; it’s a way to nurture, celebrate, and share love. Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms are the perfect addition to any occasion or quiet evening, nourishing both the body and spirit. Enjoy the process, the aromas that fill your kitchen, and the smiles these treats bring!
Print
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful red velvet cookies topped with a chocolate kiss, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 7 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted, softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp red food coloring gel
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup red sanding sugar
- 18 Hershey chocolate kisses
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a stand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring; mix until combined.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
- Scoop out 18 equal balls of dough, roll in red sanding sugar, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, until the edges are set.
- Press a Hershey chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie and cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding nuts or cream cheese centers, and remember to measure accurately for the best results.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: cookies, red velvet, dessert, baking, festive treats