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Peppermint Kiss Cookies: Irresistibly Festive & Easy to Bake
Introduction to Peppermint Kiss Cookies
There’s something truly magical about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the home during the holiday season, and Peppermint Kiss Cookies capture that magic perfectly. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of mint and chocolate, a classic duo that brings both nostalgia and comfort. This delicious treat isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s a delightful way to embrace the spirit of giving and sharing during the holidays.
The Holiday Tradition of Baking Cookies
Baking cookies has long been a cherished tradition in many households, transcending generations. Cooks across the globe gather in kitchens adorned with twinkling lights and the laughter of loved ones, mixing ingredients that lovingly bond families and friends. Whether it’s a late-night baking session accompanied by hot cocoa or a bustling afternoon of cookie decorating with the kids, these moments create cherished memories that last well beyond the last bite.
Cookies aren’t just treats; they serve as vessels for love and connection. Each variety holds a story—perhaps it’s Grandma’s famous recipe or a new creation inspired by a baking blog. For me, Peppermint Kiss Cookies symbolize the joy of experimentation; each batch turns out uniquely delicious while adding a festive touch to holiday gatherings.
- Flavorful Combinations: The crunch of a cookie paired with the melting chocolate of a peppermint kiss creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
- Memorable Experiences: Sharing these cookies can foster a sense of community, whether you’re packaging them up as gifts or presenting them at holiday parties.
- Family Activities: Involving children in the baking process teaches them valuable skills and builds traditions that carry through to their adulthood.
So, why not bring joy to your holiday season with the delightful and eye-catching Peppermint Kiss Cookies? They not only taste fantastic but also make delightful additions to gifts, dessert tables, or simply a cozy treat at home. Dive into the recipe below, and let’s create some delicious holiday memories together!
Key Ingredients for Peppermint Kiss Cookies:
Flour: The backbone of any cookie, all-purpose flour brings structure and helps achieve the perfect chewy texture in these Peppermint Kiss Cookies. It’s essential to measure accurately; too much can lead to a dry cookie.
Butter: Using unsalted butter adds richness to the dough. I find that letting it soften at room temperature is crucial for creating that creamy blend with the sugars. The melted butter, mixed into the dry ingredients, gives these cookies their delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Sugar: A combination of brown and granulated sugar is a game-changer. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor, while granulated sugar helps achieve those beautiful edges.
Egg: Only one egg is needed, and it’s best to use a large egg at room temperature for optimal incorporation into your dough.
Peppermint Extract: This fragrant extract enhances the festive spirit of Peppermint Kiss Cookies. A few drops do the trick, giving a lovely minty flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
Chocolate Kisses: The star of the show! Place these delicious chocolate confections on top of the warm cookies right after baking, creating a beautiful contrast of flavors with the refreshing peppermint.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a Peppermint Kiss Cookie—the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing that instantly evokes holiday cheer. These cookies invite you to relish their delightful combination of rich chocolate and vibrant peppermint, bringing back memories of festive gatherings and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
A Unique Twist on Tradition
What sets Peppermint Kiss Cookies apart is their signature surprise: a deliciously gooey peppermint patty right at the center. This delightful twist is bound to impress your friends and family, transforming your cookie-baking routine into something extra special.
Easy to Make, Hard to Resist
Even if you’re new to baking, fret not! The simplicity of this recipe makes it a breeze to whip up a batch, whether for a holiday party or a cozy night in. With just a few common ingredients, you’re well on your way to cookie perfection.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies aren’t just a holiday treat; their festive colors and flavors make them suitable for any celebration. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a gathering, or indulging in them solo, Peppermint Kiss Cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to everyone involved. You might want to make a double batch; they won’t last long!
Tips for Making Perfect Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Creating Peppermint Kiss Cookies is more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about crafting a delightful experience that sings of the holiday season. These cookies embody festive warmth and a touch of whimsy, with their melting chocolate kisses and refreshing peppermint crunch. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookie-making adventure is smooth and successful.
Choose the Right Chocolate Kisses
Always use fresh Hershey’s Peppermint Kisses. They provide the rich chocolate flavor paired with a subtle peppermint essence. If you can, check the expiration date on the package to ensure maximum freshness. They’ll really shine when melted atop the warm cookies.
Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough
Chilling your cookie dough for about 30 minutes is crucial. This step enhances the texture, making your cookies chewy and ensuring they don’t spread too much while baking. Plus, it’s an extra moment to take a break and enjoy a hot beverage!
Monitor Baking Time Closely
Every oven is unique, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are just lightly golden—they will continue to set as they cool. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, and nobody wants that during the holidays!
Top with Peppermint Sprinkles
For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven. This not only adds flavor but also gives them a delightful visual appeal.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Peppermint Kiss Cookies become the highlight of your holiday gatherings. Happy baking!
Time Details for Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Getting the timing just right is essential when crafting those delightful Peppermint Kiss Cookies. I often find that the anticipation is half the fun, so here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect as you dive into this delicious journey.
Preparation time
To begin, set aside about 15 minutes for preparation. This includes measuring out your ingredients and mixing them together to create that perfect cookie dough.
Baking time
Once you’ve formed your cookie dough into little mounds, pop them into the oven for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers still seem slightly soft.
Total time
In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes of hands-on time from start to finish. Perfect for fitting in during a cozy evening at home or as a festive addition to your holiday gatherings!
Nutritional Information for Peppermint Kiss Cookies
When it comes to baking something that embodies the holiday spirit, Peppermint Kiss Cookies take the prize! Not only do they serve as a festive treat, but understanding their nutritional profile can also help you indulge thoughtfully. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional information for these delightful cookies.
Calories
Each serving of Peppermint Kiss Cookies contains approximately 120 calories. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without going overboard during the holiday season!
Protein
These cookies offer about 2 grams of protein per serving, providing just a bit of nourishment amidst the sweetness.
Sodium
With roughly 75 milligrams of sodium per cookie, they strike a balance that doesn’t overwhelm your palate but still adds flavor to the mix.
Enjoy these cookies guilt-free, knowing you have a festive treat that brings joy while keeping nutrition in mind!
FAQs About Peppermint Kiss Cookies
When the holiday season beckons, there’s nothing quite like the festive charm of Peppermint Kiss Cookies to evoke warmth, joy, and sweet nostalgia. These delightful treats, with their velvety chocolate and refreshing peppermint touch, often lead to a flurry of questions. Let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked queries about these scrumptious cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To transform your Peppermint Kiss Cookies into a gluten-free delight, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many find success with brands that include xanthan gum, which mimics the elasticity of traditional flour, yielding a delicious and chewy result without sacrificing texture.
How do I store leftover cookies?
After indulging in your Peppermint Kiss Cookies, it’s essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their delightful flavor and texture. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply separate layers of cookies with parchment paper before sealing in a freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying them again!
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Certainly! Baking is all about creativity. If you find yourself short on some ingredients, feel free to make substitutions. For instance, you can use coconut oil or unsalted margarine in place of butter. While Hershey’s Kisses are traditional for the topping, any similarly sized chocolate, like chocolate-covered peppermint candies, can work too. Ensure you balance out any changes so the cookies maintain their intended taste and texture, but don’t be afraid to experiment—your version might become a new favorite!
Conclusion on Peppermint Kiss Cookies
In wrapping up our delightful journey into the world of Peppermint Kiss Cookies, it’s clear why these treats are synonymous with holiday cheer. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor profile that’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a festive gathering or simply indulging yourself, each bite offers a moment of joy.
Remember, the magic lies in the details—using high-quality ingredients, taking your time to chill the dough, and making sure those Peppermint Kisses are perfectly melted. So roll up your sleeves, gather your friends, and enjoy every step of the baking process; you’ll be left with cookies that are not just delicious, but also create sweet memories during the holidays.
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Peppermint Candy Cane Kisses Cookies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cookies featuring peppermint and Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 30 Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, unwrapped
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Fold in crushed peppermint candies.
- Chill dough for 30 minutes if too soft.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat with granulated sugar.
- Place on baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are set and tops begin to crack.
- Let cookies cool for 2–3 minutes, then press a Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Transfer to wire racks and cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of peppermint extract.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
