Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies

Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are a vibrant and festive twist on the classic blossom cookie. With a rich red velvet flavor, soft and chewy texture, and a signature Hershey’s Kiss nestled in the center, these cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or just because, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy, and full of red velvet flavor
• Topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss for a nostalgic touch
• Eye-catching and festive—perfect for gifting or holiday trays
• Super simple, beginner-friendly recipe
• No chilling required
• Great for baking with kids
• Easily made with pantry staples
• Can be made in batches for parties or events
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Always a hit at cookie swaps or gatherings

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Milk
• Red food coloring
• Vanilla extract
• White vinegar
• Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)
• Optional: sanding sugar or granulated sugar for rolling

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, milk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in sanding sugar or granulated sugar if desired.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cookies are set but still soft.
9. Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie after removing from the oven.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 24 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use white chocolate or Hershey’s Hugs instead of milk chocolate Kisses
• Add a dash of almond extract for a subtle flavor twist
• Use heart-shaped Hershey’s Kisses for Valentine’s Day
• Make them sparkle with red or gold sanding sugar
• Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra indulgence
• Turn into sandwich cookies with cream cheese frosting

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag—store for up to 2 months. Let come to room temperature before serving. No reheating needed.

FAQs

What makes these cookies “red velvet”?

The combination of cocoa powder, red food coloring, and a touch of vinegar gives these cookies their classic red velvet flavor and color.

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the red coloring, but they’ll be more of a chocolate blossom cookie.

Do I have to roll the dough in sugar?

It’s optional, but it adds sparkle and a nice texture to the outside.

Why add vinegar to the dough?

Vinegar reacts with the baking soda and cocoa to enhance the red velvet flavor and keep the cookies soft.

Can I use a red velvet cake mix?

Yes, for an even quicker version, use red velvet cake mix with egg and oil to form the dough.

What type of Hershey’s Kisses work best?

Classic milk chocolate Kisses are traditional, but you can use any variety you like.

Can I chill the dough?

It’s not necessary, but you can chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.

Will the Hershey’s Kiss melt?

No, it will soften slightly when placed on the warm cookie, then firm back up as it cools.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely! They’re colorful, festive, and hold up well for shipping or gifting.

Conclusion

Easy Hershey’s Red Velvet Blossoms Cookies are the perfect blend of soft red velvet and rich chocolate, wrapped up in a festive, fun-to-make treat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just for fun, these cookies are a beautiful and delicious way to brighten any cookie tray.

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