Cherry Kiss Cookies: The Perfect Sweet Treat for Family Fun!

Posted on December 26, 2025

This Cherry Kiss Cookies recipe comes together in about 20 minutes and really is a quick and easy baking project that your family will love! Imagine filling your kitchen with the aroma of sweet cherries and melting chocolate while creating something everyone will rave about. The best part? You can switch up the add-ins to suit your taste or even use it as a chance to clean out your pantry by tossing in what you have on hand. Seriously, you won’t believe how simple and satisfying these little treats are!

Ingredient Breakdown

Making these Cherry Kiss Cookies is a piece of cake well, technically, cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened : This is the star of our cookies, lending a rich flavor that sets the foundation for deliciousness.
1/2 cup powdered sugar : For that perfect sweetness without being overwhelming.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour : This forms the bulk of the cookie and gives it that lovely, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt : Just a couple pinches to balance the sweetness, you’ll be surprised how much flavor just a little salt can add!
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped : These will be the cherry on top literally! They add a beautiful pop of color and fruity goodness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract : Because vanilla makes everything better!
Hershey’s Kisses, for topping : These smooth chocolates are what makes our cookies absolutely irresistible!

Let’s Get Cooking!

Alright, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your Cherry Kiss Cookies:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until it’s light, fluffy, and oh-so-creamy (about 2-3 minutes). It should be like a cloud of sweet goodness!
Next, gradually mix in the flour and salt. I like to do this slowly, so you avoid a flour explosion. Keep mixing until a nice dough forms, it’s gonna feel a little soft and buttery, and it smells incredible already!
Now, stir in the chopped maraschino cherries and vanilla extract. Get in there and mix until everything’s well combined. The cherries will add such a sweet little surprise when you bite into the cookie!
With clean hands, roll the dough into small balls (about the size of a tablespoon). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space because they will spread a bit.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. You want the centers to stay a tad soft trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool.
Right when you take them out of the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Don’t forget to let that chocolate melt slightly for extra yumminess!
Finally, allow to cool on a wire rack before serving. Patience, friends wait a few minutes so that you don’t burn your tongue on that delicious chocolate!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cherry Kiss Cookies recipe is my go-to when I need a quick sweet treat that everyone will devour. Honestly, who doesn’t love a soft, chewy cookie with a chocolate surprise? I’m a real sucker for desserts that are super simple but feel indulgent, and these cookies definitely fit the bill! Plus, you can use whatever cherries or chocolates you have on hand, so there’s no need for a trip to the store. And the best part is that they’re wonderful for any occasion; whether it’s a bake sale, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in.

If you loved these Cherry Kiss Cookies, be sure to check out my Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms, my Raspberry Almond Snowball Cookies, or my Tiramisu Cookies!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

Life is busy, right? This recipe literally comes together in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for unexpected guests or spontaneous dessert cravings. You mix, scoop, and bake all in a flash!

Crowd-Pleaser

Let’s face it: these cookies are a total crowd-pleaser! Everyone will love the combination of buttery dough, fruity cherries, and that Hershey’s Kiss on top. It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering!

Customizable

Feeling adventurous? You can swap out cherries for blueberries, or use dark chocolate Kisses instead, whatever strikes your fancy! The flexibility here makes it not only convenient but also a fun way to get creative in the kitchen.

Comfort Food

There’s something cozy and satisfying about cookies. They remind us of home, love, and family gatherings. With every bite, you’ll be flooded with nostalgia, which makes them the ultimate comfort food!

Serving & Storage

How to Serve These Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but if you want to up your game, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top! Or serve them alongside a steaming cup of hot chocolate for a cozy evening treat.

Storage

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they last that long, that is!

Reheating Instructions

To bring them back to their lovely gooey state, simply pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds just enough to soften the chocolate again!

Freezer Friendly

Yes! You can freeze these cookies, although I bet they won’t last long! Simply flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Making Cherry Kiss Cookies is not just about whipping up a sweet treat, it’s about creating memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re baking with kids after school or treating yourself to something sweet, these cookies are sure to brighten your day and fill your home with delicious scents. They’re easy, delightful, and the joy they bring to family gatherings is simply unmatched. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.