Easter Blossom Cookies: A Festive Springtime Delight

Easter is a time for family gatherings, colorful decorations, and of course, delicious treats. One of the best ways to celebrate is with Easter Blossom Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic blossom cookie. These festive cookies are coated in pastel sanding sugar, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a signature Hershey Kiss.

Soft, chewy, and visually stunning, these cookies bring the joy of spring to any Easter celebration. Whether you’re baking with family, preparing for an Easter party, or simply indulging in a seasonal treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Easter Blossom Cookies—including variations, storage tips, and frequently asked questions—to help you make the perfect batch for your holiday table.

Why Easter Blossom Cookies Are a Must-Try

Blossom cookies have been a staple in holiday baking for years. They first gained popularity as Peanut Butter Blossoms, but have since evolved into various versions, including this Easter-inspired sugar cookie adaptation.

Here’s why these cookies stand out:

1. A Perfect Blend of Texture and Flavor

Easter Blossom Cookies are soft and chewy with a slightly crisp outer layer thanks to the sanding sugar. The rich chocolate center from the Hershey Kiss complements the buttery, vanilla-almond cookie base, creating an irresistible flavor combination.

2. Easy to Make and Fun for All Ages

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how simple it is. No advanced baking skills required! Even kids can participate by rolling the dough in colorful sugars or pressing the chocolate kisses onto the cookies.

3. A Beautiful, Festive Appearance

With their pastel sugar coating and chocolate center, these cookies are not just delicious—they’re also eye-catching. They make for an excellent addition to Easter dessert platters, cookie exchange trays, or as homemade gifts.

4. Customizable for Any Occasion

While these cookies are a standout for Easter, they can easily be adapted for other holidays. Swap the pastel sanding sugar for red and green during Christmas, orange and black for Halloween, or pink and red for Valentine’s Day. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Preserving Easter Blossom Cookies

If you’re making a batch ahead of time or just want to enjoy them longer, here’s how to keep them fresh:

Short-Term Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.

Refrigeration

While not necessary, refrigerating the cookies can extend their freshness to 7-10 days. However, be aware that the Hershey Kisses may harden in the fridge. If you prefer a softer chocolate center, allow the cookies to sit at room temperature before serving.

Freezing for Later

Easter Blossom Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze:

• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

Fun Variations to Try

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Easter Blossoms

Swap the traditional vanilla cookie base for a chocolate sugar cookie dough and use white chocolate Hershey Kisses for a decadent twist.

2. Fruity Springtime Blossoms

Instead of almond extract, add a few drops of lemon or orange extract to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor. You can also use fruit-flavored Hershey Kisses or a pastel-colored M&M in the center.

3. Peanut Butter Blossom Easter Edition

Take the classic Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie and coat it in pastel-colored sugar for a festive spring twist. Use Reese’s Miniatures in the center instead of Hershey Kisses for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.

4. Sprinkle Explosion Cookies

Instead of rolling the cookies in sanding sugar, roll them in colorful Easter sprinkles to add extra crunch and a fun decorative touch.

5. Vegan & Gluten-Free Blossoms

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), and opt for dairy-free chocolate. To make them gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

Ingredients for a Festive Treat

• Butter – Softened to create a rich and moist texture.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and enhances their chewiness.
• Egg – Helps bind the dough together.
• Vanilla & Almond Extracts – Adds a depth of flavor with a subtle nutty and floral note.
• Flour – The structural base of the cookies.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and maintain their shape.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the dough.
• Pastel Sanding Sugar – Coats the cookies for a festive, colorful finish.
• Hershey Kisses – The signature chocolate center that completes the cookie.

Baking Magic: How to Create These Colorful Cookies

1. Preheat & Prepare
   • Set the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
   • Pour different pastel sanding sugars into small bowls for easy rolling later.
2. Mix the Dough
   • Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until combined.
   • Gradually add the flour, baking soda, salt, and milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape & Coat
   • Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls.
   • Coat each ball in a pastel sanding sugar of your choice and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake to Perfection
   • Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cookies are just set but still soft.
   • Remove from the oven and let them cool for 2 minutes.
5. Add the Finishing Touch
   • Press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie, allowing it to slightly melt into place.
   • Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 130
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 109mg
• Fiber: 0.4g

These soft and chewy cookies with a crisp exterior and chocolate center are the perfect festive treat for Easter celebrations!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Have to Use Almond Extract?

No, almond extract is optional, but it adds a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the cookie’s overall taste. If you prefer, you can simply double the vanilla extract or experiment with citrus, coconut, or mint extracts.

Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate in the Center?

Absolutely! While Hershey Kisses are the classic choice, you can substitute them with:

• Mini Cadbury Eggs
• Chocolate Caramel Kisses
• Peanut Butter Cups
• White Chocolate Truffles

Why Did My Hershey Kisses Melt Too Much?

If your Hershey Kisses are melting excessively, try this trick:

• Let the cookies cool for a full 5 minutes before pressing the chocolate into the center.
• You can also freeze the Hershey Kisses before placing them on the cookies to slow the melting process.

Can I Prepare the Dough in Advance?

Yes! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply roll the dough into balls, coat in sanding sugar, and bake as directed.

What’s the Best Way to Keep the Cookies Soft?

To maintain their chewy texture:

• Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
• Avoid overbaking—remove them from the oven when they are just set but still soft in the center.

Are These Cookies Good for Gifting?

Definitely! Place them in a decorative tin or clear treat bag, tie with a pastel ribbon, and add a personalized Easter tag. They make a charming homemade gift for friends, teachers, and neighbors.

The Final Word: A Must-Have Easter Treat

Easter Blossom Cookies are the perfect combination of beauty, flavor, and fun. Their pastel sugar coating and rich chocolate center make them a standout treat that’s sure to brighten any Easter celebration.

With their easy preparation, endless variations, and long-lasting freshness, these cookies are an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making them for an Easter party, gifting them to loved ones, or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to bring a taste of spring to your table.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delightful Easter treats of the season!

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