Description
Delight in these festive Red Velvet Blossom Cookies, a perfect blend of moist red velvet cake mix turned into soft, chewy cookies topped with a classic Hershey’s kiss. These cookies feature a subtle hint of espresso and a sugar coating that adds a delightful crunch. Quick to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz.)
- ½ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- 1 cup regular or coarse sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 24 Hershey’s kiss candies (or other mini chocolate candy)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add the red velvet cake mix and optional espresso powder, stirring until the mixture is fully incorporated and forms a thick dough.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls and helping the cookies maintain shape during baking.
- Form and Coat Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1½ inch balls. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat thoroughly, which adds a slight crunch and sweetness to the cookie exterior.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookie edges start to set, the cookies puff up, and they begin to slightly crinkle on top.
- Add Chocolate Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s kiss candy into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet so the chocolate can set properly.
- Optional Chocolate Set Method: If using Hugs candy kisses, which tend to melt into the cookie, transfer the cookies to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate has set to prevent melting. Standard Hershey’s kisses will set well if left untouched until cooled.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining cookie shape and achieving a soft, chewy texture.
- Espresso powder enhances the red velvet flavor but is optional.
- Using coarse sugar for rolling adds a subtle crunch and sparkle to the cookies.
- Substitute Hershey’s kisses with any mini chocolate candy of your choice.
- Cooling completely is crucial to prevent the chocolate from melting or sliding off.
