Let’s dive into the world of baking with these enchanting cherry blossom cookies, perfect for welcoming spring with a sweet touch. These delicate treats not only capture the beauty of cherry blossoms but also pack a flavorful punch that’ll have everyone asking for more.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of almond extract and cherry jam creates a flavor that’s both unique and irresistible.
- Using a simple sugar cookie base ensures the cookies are easy to make yet perfectly tender.
- The pink icing and edible glitter add a magical touch, making these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
- Perfect for parties, these cookies are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and delightful taste.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup cherry jam
- Pink food coloring
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Edible glitter (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cherry blossom cookie cutter
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Piping bag
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and almond extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use the cherry blossom cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them to baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Jam Filling
Once the cookies are cool, spread a thin layer of cherry jam on half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies to create sandwiches. The jam adds a lovely burst of flavor and moisture to the cookies.
Step 4: Decorate with Pink Icing
Mix the powdered sugar and milk to create a thick icing. Add a few drops of pink food coloring until you reach your desired shade. Use a piping bag to drizzle the icing over the cookies, then sprinkle with edible glitter for a sparkling finish. Let the icing set before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure your butter is properly softened to room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth, even dough. If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step, but chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. When decorating, less is more with the icing—too much can overpower the delicate flavor of the cookies. Finally, for an extra touch of elegance, consider using a small brush to dust the cookies with edible gold dust.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the cherry jam for raspberry or strawberry jam for a different berry flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- For a nuttier flavor, replace the almond extract with vanilla extract and add chopped almonds to the dough.
- Make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and a flax egg instead of the regular egg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re adding the icing, wait until you’re ready to serve to ensure it stays fresh and doesn’t get soggy.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, the cookie dough freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough is key to preventing spread. Also, make sure your oven is properly preheated before baking. If you find your cookies are still spreading too much, try adding a tablespoon more flour to the dough to stiffen it up a bit.
Summary
These cherry blossom cookies are a delightful way to celebrate spring. With their delicate flavor and beautiful appearance, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different flavors and decorations to suit any occasion.