Introduction
There’s something irresistibly festive about a red velvet cookie, especially when it’s infused with chocolate goodness. These delightful Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a sweet chocolate kiss that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies bring a pop of color and flavor to any cookie platter. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling
- 24 semisweet chocolate kisses
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set it aside, allowing the dry ingredients to mingle.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter has a vibrant hue.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough!
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls between your palms.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until they are completely coated, giving them that lovely sweet exterior.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft—this will give them that chewy texture we love.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Let the residual heat soften the kiss for that melty effect.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this helps create a creamy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies right after baking for a delightful sweet-salty contrast. And remember, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week — if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases essential baking techniques such as creaming butter and sugar for that perfect airy texture. Rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking not only creates a beautiful appearance but also contributes to a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. These techniques ensure that every bite of your red velvet blossoms is a delightful experience!
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, roll them into balls, and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven without needing to thaw!
Can I use different types of chocolate for the topping?
Certainly! While semisweet chocolate kisses are a classic choice, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds, but they bring a delightful splash of color and joy to any gathering. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or simply to brighten a rainy day, their rich flavor and soft texture will surely steal the spotlight. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family, or keep a batch all to yourself—no judgment here!