Springtime brings blossoms and celebrations, and what better way to enjoy the season than with Cherry Blossoms Cookies? Soft, floral, and subtly sweet, these cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, a spring gathering, or simply to enjoy as a fragrant treat at home. With a delicate cherry blossom flavor and a beautiful pink hue, these cookies are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. This guide will walk you through every step to make these stunning treats from scratch.

Ingredients

Cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.25 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
0.75 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cherry blossom syrup (or cherry extract)
0.25 cup milk
Pink food coloring (optional, for cherry blossom tint)

Frosting / Filling (Optional):

0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
1.5 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp cream or milk
A few drops of cherry blossom syrup for flavoring
Optional edible cherry blossom petals for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and cherry blossom syrup. Add a few drops of pink food coloring if desired.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft cookie dough forms.
Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, spacing about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers appear set. Cool completely on wire racks.
If making frosting: beat butter with powdered sugar, vanilla, and cherry blossom syrup. Add cream or milk to reach desired consistency.
Sandwich cookies with frosting, or pipe small blossoms on top. Garnish with edible cherry blossom petals if desired.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Tips & Tricks

Cherry Blossom Flavor: Real cherry blossom syrup gives an authentic floral note. If unavailable, cherry extract works well.
Coloring: For a subtle blush, add 1–2 drops of pink food coloring to the dough. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft pastel tone.
Soft Texture: Don’t overbake; cookies will firm up as they cool.
Make Ahead: Cookies can be baked and frozen unfrosted. Frost after thawing for a fresh look.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with green tea, light milk, or sparkling water for an elegant spring presentation.

Variations

Chocolate Cherry Blossoms: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Vegan Option: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and flaxseed egg for plant-based baking.
Nutty Touch: Fold in finely chopped pistachios or almonds for subtle crunch and color contrast.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Cherry blossoms, or “sakura,” are deeply significant in Japanese culture, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life. Incorporating this delicate flavor into cookies is a playful homage to this tradition. These cookies are often served during spring festivals, tea ceremonies, or simply as a seasonal treat to brighten the day. The gentle pink hue evokes the blossoming cherry trees and adds a touch of elegance to any dessert table.

Serving Ideas

Arrange cookies on a white ceramic plate with fresh cherry blossoms for a centerpiece display.
Include a small bowl of sweet cherry syrup for dipping.
Create a layered dessert platter with macarons, tea cakes, and Cherry Blossoms Cookies for a sophisticated afternoon tea.