Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the festive spirit of red velvet, look no further than Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table or special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms stand out for various reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and only a handful of ingredients. The combination of buttery cookies with the iconic chocolate kiss atop creates a unique flavor experience. Plus, the vibrant red color adds a cheerful touch, making them an excellent choice for celebrations, holidays, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day. Whether you’re baking for a party or wanting to surprise your family, these cookies are sure to impress.
How to Make Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
Making Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms is a straightforward process that results in soft, chewy cookies topped with a delightful chocolate kiss. Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until smooth.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix just until the flour mixture disappears.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out 18 equally sized cookie dough balls. Roll them into balls in the palm of your hands, then roll them in the red sanding sugar.
- Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie gently.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Pro Tips for Success with Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
- Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This makes shaping the cookies much easier.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. Overbaking can lead to hard cookies, so aim for a soft center.
- Use Quality Chocolate Kisses: The chocolate kiss is the star of the show, so don’t skimp out! Choose a high-quality chocolate kiss to elevate the flavor.
- Add Extra Flavor: If you want to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of almond extract in addition to the vanilla.
- Experiment with Different Sugars: For an added twist, try using white chocolate kisses or even mini peanut butter cups instead of the classic chocolate kisses.
- Enjoy Barefoot: For a fun twist, enjoy these cookies warm with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream right on top!
Flavor Variations for Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.
- Cream Cheese Version: Mix in a bit of softened cream cheese into the cookie dough for a richer, creamier taste that complements the red velvet theme.
- Spiced Up: Introduce cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm and spicy kick that’ll surprise your taste buds.
- Minty Delight: Replace the regular chocolate kisses with mint chocolate kisses for a refreshing minty flavor.
- Sprinkles Galore: After rolling the cookie balls in red sanding sugar, add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch, perfect for parties or holidays.
Serving Suggestions for Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of these delectable cookies:
- Dessert Platters: Serve them on a beautifully arranged dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies, cupcakes, and fruit tarts.
- Baking Parties: These cookies make a fantastic activity for kids or baking parties. Let everyone decorate their cookies with different toppings!
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies with a scoop of ice cream in between them for a delightful ice cream sandwich treat.
- Gift Giving: Package the cookies in a decorative jar or box as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends or family.
- Holiday Treats: Especially for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Christmas, these cookies bring a festive cheer that everyone will enjoy.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
To keep your cookies fresh and delightful:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can place them in the refrigerator. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———-|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 60 mg |
FAQ About Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
Can I use different colors of food coloring for these cookies?
Absolutely! While red is traditional for red velvet cookies, you can experiment with other colors, like green for a fun holiday theme or blue for birthdays. Just ensure that you don’t overpower the flavors by adding too much coloring.
Is it necessary to chill the cookie dough?
Chilling the cookie dough is not mandatory, but it’s recommended if you find the dough sticky or difficult to handle. Chilling it helps to firm up the butter, which can provide for a better texture.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it is a one-to-one alternative for the best results. Some gluten-free flours may absorb moisture differently, so you may need to adjust the quantity slightly.
What can I do if I don’t have red food coloring gel?
If you don’t have red food coloring gel, you can use liquid food coloring or even beet juice as a natural alternative. Note that liquid food coloring might alter the texture slightly, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
If you’d like to reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the granulated sugar or substitute them with a sugar alternative like stevia. Keep in mind that it may affect both the texture and flavor slightly, so adjustments may be required.
Final Thoughts
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms are a delightful cookie that combines festive flair with delicious taste. They are simple to prepare, making them a go-to for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether you bake them for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. Get ready to share these sweet treats and enjoy the reactions they bring!
Print
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the festive spirit of red velvet.
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 the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until smooth.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt; mix until the flour mixture disappears.
- Scoop out 18 equally sized cookie dough balls and roll them in red sanding sugar.
- Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after removing them from the oven.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
Chill the dough if it’s too sticky. Don’t overbake for soft cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American