Step-by-step instructions

Let’s dive into the baking process to make your Cherry Kiss Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Blend in the egg and the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. You want to keep the dough light!
6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets to allow for spreading.
8. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are a lovely light golden brown.
9. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, press a red candy kiss into the center of each cookie.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

Cherry Kiss Cookies are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your presentation with a few creative serving ideas. Consider placing the cooled cookies on a festive platter adorned with fresh cherries or some sprigs of mint for a touch of color. These cookies also pair beautifully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Cherry Kiss Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week but trust me, they won’t last that long! If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in freezer-safe containers. For a quick snack, you can reheat them briefly in the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it!

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to ensure your Cherry Kiss Cookies come out perfectly every time:

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted; this will give your cookies the right texture.
• Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm twist.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider for your Cherry Kiss Cookies:

• Nutty Addition: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Different Fruit: Swap out maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or blueberries for a unique fruit flavor.
• Colorful Options: Use different flavored or colored candy kisses to match the occasion—think pastel kisses for spring or red and green for the holidays.

Common questions

1. How long does it take to prep and bake these cookies?
   The total time for preparing and baking Cherry Kiss Cookies is around 30 minutes, with 10-12 minutes of bake time.

2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While margarine can be used, it might affect the cookie’s texture and flavor. Unsalted butter is preferred for the best results.

3. Are these cookies safe to store?
   Yes! Just be sure they are properly cooled and stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

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