These Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are soft, sweet, and oh-so-charming with their bright red color. Each cookie is topped with a delicious Hershey’s Kiss, making them irresistible!
Honestly, who can resist a cookie that looks this cute? They’re perfect for any gathering or just to enjoy with a glass of milk. You only need a few simple ingredients to whip them up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake Mix: This is the star of the show, giving the cookies their signature flavor and color. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could try a gluten-free cake mix instead or make a homemade version using cocoa powder, flour, and buttermilk.
Vegetable Oil: This adds moisture to the cookies. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. Olive oil works too, but it may leave a distinct flavor.
Hershey’s Kisses: While milk chocolate is classic, you can use dark chocolate kisses for a richer taste. For a fun twist, try using caramel-filled or peanut butter kisses!
Freeze-Dried Raspberries: These are great for adding a tart contrast to the sweet cookies. If you can’t find them, you could sprinkle some mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles instead for a festive touch.
How Can I Ensure My Cookies Stay Soft and Chewy?
The key to soft and chewy cookies is to avoid overbaking them. Follow these tips:
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; take them out as soon as the edges are set, even if the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. This allows the centers to continue cooking without drying out.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture, keeping them soft longer.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your cookies turn out deliciously soft every time! Enjoy your baking!
Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Approximately 36 Hershey’s Kisses (milk chocolate)
- Optional: Freeze-dried raspberry pieces or sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cookie recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 8-10 minutes for baking. You’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time, perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, take a moment to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab some baking sheets and line them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. This little step makes cleanup so much easier!
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the red velvet cake mix, crack in the two large eggs, and add the vegetable oil. Using a spatula or spoon, mix everything together until a soft dough forms. It should be well blended and nice and smooth!
3. Form the Cookies:
Now it’s time to form those cookies! Use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each piece into a ball and then roll it in the granulated sugar until it’s coated evenly. This coating will give your cookies a lovely sweetness and a sparkly look.
4. Bake the Cookies:
Carefully place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. It’s important to give them room to spread while baking. Then, pop them in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges feel set and the tops have a few cracks. Make sure not to overbake, as we want these cookies to remain soft!
5. Add the Chocolate Kisses:
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, it’s time for the best part! While they’re still warm, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. You’ll see them crack slightly around the edges, which is totally normal and just adds to the charm.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, which helps the chocolate soften a bit more. Then, if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some freeze-dried raspberry pieces or colorful sprinkles around the chocolate for that extra pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy Your Cookies!
Finally, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re cooled, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh! These cookies are perfect for sharing, or you might just want to keep them all to yourself!
With their beautiful red color and delicious chocolate center, these Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are sure to impress everyone. Enjoy baking and happy snacking!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While red velvet is classic, you can substitute with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla. Just keep in mind that the color and taste will change, but the overall process remains the same.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just ensure they are completely cool before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What If I Don’t Have Hershey’s Kisses?
No worries! You can use other chocolates like chocolate chips or even different types of candy like caramel candies or peanut butter cups. Just remember to adjust accordingly based on the size of the alternative candy you’re using.
Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling and baking for the best results.
