There is something utterly delightful about the sweet, tender crumb and festive color of red velvet baked into a soft cookie, making this Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe an absolute showstopper for any occasion. These cookies combine the classic, rich flavor of red velvet with the fun surprise of a chocolate kiss nestled right in the center, creating a treat that’s as visually charming as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special celebration, or just because life calls for a little indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles around the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity is key in the Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe, and each ingredient is carefully chosen to provide that signature rich flavor, beautiful color, and perfect texture. From the ready-to-go cake mix to the optional espresso powder that deepens chocolate notes, every item plays a crucial role in making these cookies irresistible.
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz.): This pre-made mix gives the cookies their vibrant red color and the classic velvety flavor with minimal effort.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the dough together and add richness for a tender crumb.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Butter adds moisture and a luscious depth of flavor—melting it first ensures it incorporates evenly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- ½ tsp espresso powder (optional!): Just a pinch intensifies the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- 1 cup regular or coarse sugar: Rolling the cookie dough balls in sugar adds a lovely sweet crust and delightful texture.
- 24 Hershey’s kiss candies (or other mini chocolate candy): These are the charming centerpieces that melt slightly into the cookies for that perfect finish.
How to Make Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Start by whisking together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. The key here is to combine these until smooth and slightly frothy—this ensures your dough comes together nicely and the flavors blend seamlessly.
Step 2: Mix in the Red Velvet Cake Mix
Add the red velvet cake mix to the wet ingredients, along with the optional espresso powder if you’re using it. Stir everything until the dough is fully incorporated, forming a slightly sticky but workable dough. The espresso powder might sound unusual, but it truly amplifies the cookie’s rich chocolate undertones without tasting like coffee.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Place the dough in the fridge and chill for about 30 minutes. This step is important because it firms up the dough, making it easier to roll into uniform balls and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 4: Roll and Coat in Sugar
When the dough is cool and firm enough to handle, roll it into approximately 1½ inch balls. Then, generously coat each ball in sugar, which not only adds a delicate crunch but also gives the cookies their signature sparkle once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F and arrange the sugared dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, watching closely—the cookies are ready when their edges start to set and they puff up with a hint of crinkling on top.
Step 6: Press the Chocolate Kisses
Remove the cookies from the oven and gently press a Hershey’s kiss into the center of each while still warm. This is the magical moment when the cookie and chocolate meet. Let the cookies cool completely before handling so the chocolate sets nicely—if using Hugs kisses, consider chilling them before serving to prevent excessive melting.
How to Serve Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or colorful sprinkles around the edges for festive occasions. Fresh berries on the side can also complement the rich chocolate and red velvet flavor, adding brightness and an extra pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair your Red Velvet Blossom Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or even a creamy latte. These combinations balance the sweetness perfectly and elevate the cookie experience into a full-on treat moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter with small bowls of assorted chocolates and nuts for a beautiful dessert table display. For gift-giving, stack them in a cute tin or tie them in a bundle with a ribbon—this cookie is as attractive as it is delicious, making it a heartwarming gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Red Velvet Blossom Cookies stay fresh stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain their soft texture and vibrant color.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm and then transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw in minutes at room temperature, preserving much of their original freshness.
Reheating
Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to rediscover that just-baked softness. Avoid overheating so the chocolate centers stay delightfully melty without getting hard or burnt.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Since this recipe uses a boxed red velvet cake mix, you’ll want to find a gluten-free version of the mix to keep it gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free cake mixes that work well as substitutes.
What if I don’t have espresso powder?
No worries! The espresso powder is optional and primarily enhances the chocolate flavor. If you skip it, your cookies will still taste fabulous, just a bit less intense in chocolate depth.
Can I substitute the Hershey’s Kisses with another candy?
Absolutely! Mini chocolate candies or even caramel bites can be used. Just keep in mind how they melt or hold their shape in the oven to get the best result.
Why do the cookies need to chill before baking?
Chilling the dough firms it up, which helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading while baking, resulting in those perfect, cakey blossoms.
Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?
To make them dairy-free, you can swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and check that your cake mix is free of dairy ingredients. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about sharing a batch of freshly baked Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe with loved ones—the warm, tender cookies filled with chocolate kisses never fail to bring joy. Whether it’s a treat for a holiday, a party, or a simple weekend baking project, give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Red Velvet Blossom Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these festive Red Velvet Blossom Cookies featuring a soft, cake-like texture infused with rich red velvet flavor. Each cookie is topped with a luscious Hershey’s kiss, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate in every bite. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want a colorful, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz.)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- 1 cup regular or coarse sugar
Topping
- 24 Hershey’s kiss candies (or other mini chocolate candy)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Whisk together eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and fully combined. Add the red velvet cake mix and optional espresso powder, then stir gently until the mixture forms a uniform dough.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up and become easier to handle.
- Shape and coat: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1½ inch balls. Roll each ball in the regular or coarse sugar to coat evenly, which will add a delightful crunch and sparkle to the cookie surface.
- Bake the cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, spacing them evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges begin to set and the cookies puff up, showing a slight crinkle on top.
- Add the chocolate topping: Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s kiss candy gently into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet so the chocolates set properly.
- Optional cooling tips: If using Hugs chocolate kisses, note that they tend to melt and lose shape slightly; placing the cookies in the fridge or freezer after baking helps the candies set without melting into the cookie. Regular chocolate kisses will hold their shape if left undisturbed until fully cool.
Notes
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the deep chocolate flavor of the red velvet cookies.
- Use coarse sugar for coating if you prefer a crunchier texture on the outside.
- Ensure cookies are cooled completely before storing to maintain the chocolate kiss shape.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Chilling the dough is key to easier handling and better cookie shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
