Description
These Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are a delightful twist on classic red velvet cake, transformed into soft, tender cookies with a luscious chocolate kiss center. Perfectly sweet and festive, they feature a rich red hue, a hint of espresso for depth, and a crunchy sugar coating. Ideal for holiday treats or special occasions, these cookies combine cake mix convenience with homemade charm.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Coating and Topping
- 1 cup regular or coarse sugar
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses candies (or other mini chocolate candies)
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: Whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until well combined. Add the red velvet cake mix and espresso powder (if using) and stir until the dough is fully incorporated and homogeneous.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up for easier handling and rolling.
- Form and Coat Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1½ inch balls. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat evenly, which adds a slight crunch and sweetness to the cookie exterior.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, spaced adequately. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookie edges begin to set, are puffed, and just start to crinkle on top.
- Insert Chocolate Kiss: Remove cookies from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss candy into the center of each cookie gently. Let the cookies cool completely; the chocolate will soften and slightly melt into the warm cookie, creating a gooey center.
- Optional Cooling Tips: If using Hugs candy kisses, which may melt more, transfer the cookies to the fridge or freezer after inserting the candy to help them hold their shape. Regular chocolate kisses will set properly at room temperature if left untouched until cooled.
Notes
- Adding espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor for a richer taste.
- Chilling the dough is important to make rolling easier and to produce a better cookie texture.
- You can substitute Hershey’s Kisses with other mini chocolate candies if desired.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For a festive touch, use colored sugar or sprinkles instead of plain sugar for coating.
