Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel works best)
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
For Rolling:
- ½ cup red sanding sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 1 tablespoon white sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
For Topping:
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses (white chocolate or candy cane flavor)
- Red velvet cake crumbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- This helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
Step 3: Shape & Roll
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1-inch dough balls and roll them between your hands.
- Roll each ball in red sanding sugar for a festive look.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are soft.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- If desired, sprinkle with white nonpareils or red velvet cake crumbs for extra decoration.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
Tips for the Best Red Velvet Blossoms
✔ Use Gel Food Coloring – It gives a more vibrant red color without affecting texture.
✔ Don’t Overbake – Cookies should be soft in the center for the best texture.
✔ Chill the Dough – Helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
✔ Press the Hershey’s Kiss Gently – Too much force can cause cracks in the cookies.
✔ Switch Up the Chocolate – Use peppermint kisses, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate truffles!