Introduction to Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies. They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to bring a little joy into your day. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they bite into these soft, red velvet cookies topped with a sweet Hershey’s chocolate kiss. Whether it’s a quick dessert for a family gathering or a special surprise for your kids, this recipe is your go-to solution for deliciousness in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
These Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are a dream come true for busy moms like us! They come together in just 27 minutes, making them perfect for those last-minute cravings or unexpected guests. The rich, velvety flavor paired with the chocolate kiss creates a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, they’re simple enough for the kids to help with, turning baking into a fun family activity!
Ingredients for Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, providing structure and texture.
- Cocoa powder: Just a tablespoon adds a subtle chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet beautifully.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect soft texture.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for a rich, creamy dough. It also helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener adds sweetness and helps the cookies spread while baking.
- Large egg: The egg binds everything together, ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
- Red food coloring: This is what gives the cookies their signature vibrant hue. A little goes a long way!
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Hershey’s chocolate kisses: The crowning glory! These sweet chocolates are pressed into the center of each cookie for a delightful surprise.
For those looking to experiment, you can increase the cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. And remember, all ingredient measurements are at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with cookies that are too soft or burnt on the edges. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is your best friend in baking!
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and cocoa throughout the flour. A good mix will ensure that every bite of your Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies is perfectly balanced!
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. The air you incorporate during this step is what gives your cookies that delightful texture. It’s like giving your cookies a little love!
Step 4: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Next, add the large egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The red food coloring is what makes these cookies pop with color, so don’t be shy—add enough to achieve that vibrant red hue!
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in three parts, mixing well after each addition. This method helps prevent any lumps and ensures a smooth dough. You want to mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely want them soft and chewy!
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Now it’s time to shape your cookies! Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball. They will spread a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe!
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the centers still look a little soft. Don’t worry; they’ll firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is a bit different!
Step 8: Add the Hershey’s Chocolate Kiss
As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, press a Hershey’s chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. This step is key! The warmth of the cookie will slightly melt the chocolate, creating a deliciously gooey center. It’s the cherry on top of your red velvet masterpiece!
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is essential for maintaining that perfect texture. If you move them too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is a virtue, especially in baking!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s crucial for even baking.
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or sprinkles to the dough.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different!
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl if you’re in a pinch.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk can do the job too, just with a bit more elbow grease!
- Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet is perfect; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Wire rack: Essential for cooling; if you don’t have one, a plate will work in a pinch.
Variations of Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing minty flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
- Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- For a festive touch, arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh berries.
- Drizzle with white chocolate for an elegant presentation.
FAQs about Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just roll the dough into balls and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven!
What can I use instead of red food coloring?
If you prefer a natural alternative, you can use beet juice or powder. It will give your cookies a lovely red hue without artificial coloring. Just keep in mind that the shade may vary slightly.
How should I store the cookies?
Store your Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
What can I serve with these cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For a special treat, serve them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re perfect for any occasion!
Final Thoughts
Making these Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The vibrant red color and the chocolate kiss on top make them a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just because, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any gathering. I hope you find as much happiness in baking and sharing them as I do. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the deliciousness unfold!
Print
Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies you can master!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make red velvet cookies topped with a Hershey’s chocolate kiss.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Hershey’s chocolate kisses, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set.
- Immediately press a Hershey’s chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie after removing from the oven.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can increase the cocoa powder slightly.
- Make sure to let the cookies cool before storing them to maintain their texture.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg