How To Make Cherry Blossom Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon maraschino cherry juice (liquid)
• ¼ teaspoon almond, vanilla, or cherry extract
• 2-2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
• ¼ cup granulated white sugar for rolling
• 24 Hershey Kisses

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the cherry juice and extract of choice, continue mixing until smooth.
3. Add 2 cups of flour and mix on low until fully incorporated. Gradually add more flour until the dough resembles a playdough consistency.
4. Carefully stir in the chopped cherries until combined.
5. Use a tablespoon round cookie dough scoop to form small balls, roll them in granulated sugar until coated.
6. Chill the dough balls for at least 20 minutes before baking.
7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Place cookies evenly apart on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until baked through.
9. Remove from the oven and place a Hershey Kiss in the center of each cookie.
10. Allow to cool before serving.