Sugar Cookie Blossoms
There’s something undeniably magical about cookies that bring a smile to your face and fill your home with warmth. Sugar Cookie Blossoms do just that! These delightful treats combine the classic, sweet flavor of sugar cookies with the added surprise of a chocolate kiss nestled right in the center. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not just easy to make but also a joy to share. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
Sugar Cookie Blossoms are the epitome of simplicity and delight. The buttery, soft cookie base pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate of a Hershey’s Kiss. What makes this recipe a true keeper is its versatility. You can customize the cookies for various seasons or occasions by changing the flavor of the chocolate or adding a hint of citrus zest. Plus, they come together in no time, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or a planned baking session.
Ingredient Checklist
To make these scrumptious Sugar Cookie Blossoms, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose unbleached flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses (any flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (for a fresh twist)
Prep & Cook Tools
Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
- Electric mixer or whisk – for beating the butter and sugar
- Baking sheet – to hold your cookies while baking
- Parchment paper – for easy cookie release
- Cookie scoop – for evenly sized dough balls
- Cooling rack – to let the cookies cool down properly
Method: Sugar Cookie Blossoms
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Add in the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 7: Roll the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar mixed with the orange zest for a zesty flavor.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Add the Kisses
Once the cookies are out of the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookie will melt the chocolate slightly, creating that delightful blossom effect.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your Sugar Cookie Blossoms warm, or store them in an airtight container!
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
These Sugar Cookie Blossoms are perfect for any season! Here are some creative ideas to keep the festive spirit alive throughout the year:
- Spring: Use pastel-colored chocolate eggs instead of Hershey’s Kisses for Easter.
- Summer: Incorporate lemon zest instead of orange for a refreshing twist.
- Fall: Swap out the chocolate for pumpkin spice Kisses during the autumn months.
- Winter: Use peppermint Kisses for a holiday-themed treat.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
Baking can sometimes lead to mishaps, but with a little care, you can avoid common mistakes:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture of the cookies. Always use a proper measuring cup.
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tougher cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Forgetting to chill the dough may lead to cookies spreading too much. If your dough feels soft, chill it for 30 minutes before rolling.
- Not pressing the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies right after they come out of the oven can lead to a less melty and delicious center.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), store your Sugar Cookie Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Just roll them, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Quick Q&A
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of chocolate or candy you prefer. Peanut butter cups, caramel-filled chocolates, or even fruit-flavored candies would work wonderfully.
What can I substitute for orange zest?
If you don’t have orange zest on hand, lemon or lime zest can be excellent substitutes, adding a fresh citrus twist to your cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
Serve with These
Pair your delightful Sugar Cookie Blossoms with these delicious options:
- Cold milk – The classic pairing!
- Freshly brewed coffee – For the adults!
- Herbal tea – A soothing option.
- Fresh fruit platter – Balance the sweetness.
The Last Word
Baking is a lovely way to bring joy into your home, and Sugar Cookie Blossoms are the perfect embodiment of that joy. With their sweet, buttery flavor and delightful chocolate center, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies will always deliver happiness, one bite at a time. Enjoy the process, share the sweetness, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!
Sugar Cookie Blossoms
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: Beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Step 5: Whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Step 6: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Step 7: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, coating them in sugar and orange zest.
- Step 8: Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart, and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Step 9: Press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie right after baking.
- Step 10: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months for fresh cookies anytime.
- Mix different flavors of chocolate for a fun twist!
