Easy Hersheys Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies

Hi, I’m Anna. Cooking has always been my way of connecting with people I care about—it’s where love and food come together. When I make these Easy Hersheys Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies perfect. The smell of warm cocoa fills my kitchen, reminding me of her laughter and gentle hands. Try it and tell me—does it feel like a hug from grandma too?

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hersheys Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies

These Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are ideal for any holiday table or dessert platter. They’re easy to make, beautifully red, and always bring a smile. You’ll love how quickly they come together — no special tools needed, just a little mixing and rolling in red sugar. Plus, they make smaller batches, so you’re never overwhelmed with dozens of extras. Whether for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies deliver warmth and joy in every bite.

Ingredients Detailed

• Butter (7 tbsp, softened): Adds richness and helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Brown sugar (½ cup): Brings a hint of caramel sweetness and chewiness.
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Adds crisp edges and balances the flavor.
• Egg yolk (1 large): Keeps the dough moist and tender while binding everything together.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances that classic bakery-style flavor.
• Red food coloring (¼ tsp gel): Gives the cookies their signature deep red color.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure without making the cookies dense.
• Cocoa powder (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle chocolate note for that red velvet flavor.
• Baking powder (½ tsp): Helps the cookies puff slightly for a soft center.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness and brings out the cocoa flavor.
• Red sanding sugar (¼ cup): Creates sparkle and crunch on the outside.
• Hershey’s Kisses (18 pieces): The star of the show — chocolatey centers that make every bite irresistible.

Directions (Step-by-Step Cooking Guide)

1. Preheat and prepare. Set your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your cookies from sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Cream the butter and sugars. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. This step builds the base of the cookie’s texture.
3. Add the wet ingredients. Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. The dough will turn a beautiful red color and smell heavenly.
4. Combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined — don’t overmix.
5. Shape and coat. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll each ball gently between your palms. Then, roll them in the red sanding sugar for a festive sparkle.
6. Bake to perfection. Arrange the dough balls on your baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, until slightly puffed but still soft in the center.
7. Add the chocolate kiss. Right after removing from the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The chocolate will soften slightly and stick perfectly.
8. Cool and enjoy. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a rack. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy or pack up as gifts.

Cultural or Technique Note

Red velvet has Southern roots and is known for its mild cocoa flavor and luxurious red color. Traditionally paired with cream cheese frosting, this cookie twist simplifies things while keeping that same velvety richness. The Hershey’s Kiss center adds a playful American touch, turning a classic cake flavor into a fun, giftable cookie.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings

These Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies shine on any dessert table. Their red sparkle and chocolate center make them stand out among other treats — perfect for both Valentine’s Day and Christmas. Pair them with other festive cookies or candies for a colorful platter that wows every guest.

Enjoy with Warm Drinks

There’s nothing cozier than pairing these cookies with a warm cup of milk, cocoa, or coffee. The gentle cocoa flavor and buttery crumb balance perfectly with creamy, comforting drinks. They also make a lovely afternoon pick-me-up with tea or lattes.

Share as Sweet Homemade Gifts

These cookies are ideal for gifting! Once they’ve cooled completely, place a few in clear cellophane bags or small boxes tied with ribbon. They make adorable teacher gifts, neighbor treats, or thoughtful Valentine’s surprises.

Great for Dessert Boards and Bake Sales

Their bright red color and Hershey’s Kiss top make them irresistible on dessert boards or at bake sales. They hold their shape well, travel easily, and always catch attention. Combine them with chocolate chip, sugar, or peanut butter cookies for a beautiful variety platter.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use softened butter, not melted. Soft butter whips air into the dough, giving your cookies that tender, bakery-style texture.
• Don’t overbake. These cookies should look slightly soft in the center when you pull them out; they’ll continue to set as they cool.
• Chill your dough if it’s too soft. A quick 10-minute chill helps the dough roll easier and prevents spreading in the oven.
• Choose gel food coloring. It gives a richer red hue without thinning your dough like liquid coloring might.
• Press the Hershey’s Kiss gently. A light press will make it stick perfectly without melting too much or cracking the cookie surface.
• Let cookies cool completely before storing. This keeps the sugar coating crisp and prevents moisture from softening their texture.
• Experiment with Hershey’s Kiss flavors. Try white chocolate, dark chocolate, or candy cane Kisses for fun holiday versions!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the dough: Once the flour disappears, stop mixing! Overworking the dough can make cookies tough instead of tender.
Skipping the red sugar coating: The sparkling sugar isn’t just pretty — it adds crunch and contrast to the soft cookie base.
Using melted butter: Melted butter leads to flat, spread-out cookies. Always start with room-temperature butter.
Overbaking: Even one extra minute can dry them out. Remove cookies when the edges are set but the centers look soft.
Adding the Kisses too late: The cookies must still be warm when you press the chocolates in, or they won’t stick properly.
Rushing the cooling process: Let them sit on the tray for about 10 minutes before moving; this prevents them from breaking.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store the cookies in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze them in a single layer first, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag.
Reheat: To revive that fresh-baked warmth, microwave a cookie for 5–8 seconds or warm in a low oven for a few minutes. The Hershey’s Kiss will soften slightly again, making them taste freshly baked.
Room Temperature Tip: If stored in a cool, dry place, these cookies stay fresh and soft for several days without refrigeration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
They’ll stay soft for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container to maintain that perfect texture.

Q2: Can I skip the red sanding sugar?
: Definitely! You can roll the dough in regular granulated sugar instead. They’ll lose the extra sparkle but still have that sweet crunch. For a fun twist, try colored sanding sugar for different holidays.

Q3: What do these cookies taste like?
They taste like the best parts of a red velvet cake — buttery, with a light cocoa flavor and hints of vanilla — finished with that smooth chocolate center. They’re soft inside and slightly crisp on the outside.

Q4: Can I use different Hershey’s Kisses?
: Absolutely! These cookies are so versatile. White chocolate Kisses give a creamy balance, peppermint Kisses make them festive for winter, and dark chocolate adds a more intense cocoa flavor.

Q5: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
: Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just roll in sugar right before baking for the freshest look and texture.

Closing Paragraph

These Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are festive, fun, and full of charm. Every bite blends soft red velvet flavor with smooth chocolate — a cookie that feels as cozy as it looks. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bake a batch, share them, and enjoy the sweet smiles they bring.

Final Thoughts

When I pull these from the oven and press that final Hershey’s Kiss into the center, it always feels a little magical — like I’m sealing in a bit of love. Baking these cookies reminds me that simple things can be the most special. I hope your kitchen smells like joy and cocoa as you make them too. Follow me on Pinterest for more cozy, quick, and nostalgic recipes.