Sweet Cherry Blossom Cookies – Soft, Fruity & Festive
Celebrate spring or any special occasion with these Sweet Cherry Blossom Cookies — soft, buttery, and delicately flavored with cherries. Inspired by the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms, these cookies combine tender dough with bursts of cherry flavor, creating a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty.
The cookies are lightly crisp on the edges and soft in the center, with whole or chopped cherries baked inside for a natural fruity sweetness. A subtle hint of almond extract complements the cherries beautifully, giving a floral note reminiscent of cherry blossoms in bloom.
Perfect for holiday dessert tables, tea parties, or gift-giving, these cookies are easy to make, fun to decorate, and can be dressed up with a simple glaze or powdered sugar dusting. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a festive gathering, Sweet Cherry Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries or freeze-dried cherries
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in chopped cherries gently.
Shape & Bake
- Scoop dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Serve
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips & Creative Notes
- Cherry Variety: Use maraschino for sweetness or freeze-dried for concentrated cherry flavor without excess moisture.
- Almond Extract: Enhances cherry flavor and gives a delicate floral note.
- Softness: Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft and tender.
- Decorative Touch: Add a small edible flower or glaze for festive presentation.
- Make Ahead: Dough can be chilled for 1 hour before baking for more uniform cookies.
