Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Name: Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups (270 grams) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon baking powder; ⅔ cup (150 grams) unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup (150 grams) white sugar; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract; ¼ cup candy canes, crushed (about 3 candy canes); 32 Hershey's Peppermint Kisses, unwrapped

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 18, 2025

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Nothing brings the festive spirit to life quite like Peppermint Kiss Cookies. The moment you combine buttery sugar cookies with delightful peppermint flavors, you know you’re in for a treat. These cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking list. Imagine the soft, chewy texture paired with a chocolatey kiss on top—it’s hard to resist! Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy night in, or just to indulge in some sweet magic, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family.

As we embark on this baking adventure together, I promise that these cookies will fill your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the world of Peppermint Kiss Cookies, and I’ll guide you step-by-step on how to create this festive delight. Your cookie jar will thank you!

Why This Recipe Works

This Peppermint Kiss Cookies recipe perfectly blends the joyous flavors of the holiday season into a delightful treat. The combination of buttery sugar cookies with crushed candy canes creates an irresistible crunch, while the Hershey’s Peppermint Kisses add a creamy chocolate finish. The thoughtful balance of textures and flavors ensures that each bite delivers the spirit of Christmas.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Kiss Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they’re a celebration of the holidays! They bring warmth to your kitchen and joy to your gatherings. Their festive look and delightful taste make them a favorite for cookie exchanges, parties, or cozy nights at home. Plus, their easy preparation means you can whip up a batch in no time!

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

2 ¼ cups (270 grams) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
⅔ cup (150 grams) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 grams) white sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
¼ cup candy canes, crushed (about 3 candy canes)
32 Hershey’s Peppermint Kisses, unwrapped

Preparing the Baking Sheet

To kick things off, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This simple step prevents the cookies from sticking, which ensures even cooking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking powder. Setting these dry ingredients aside will help mix them well before combining with the wet ingredients, resulting in a delightful cookie consistency.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

Now, grab another large mixing bowl for the next step. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale. This should take about 3 minutes. The fluffiness helps create that melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture!

Adding Egg and Flavorings

Once your butter-sugar mixture is fluffy, it’s time to add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat again until these ingredients are well combined and fluffy. This mix will infuse your cookies with wonderful flavors.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. With each addition, beat well until everything is nicely combined. Now, gently fold in the crushed candy canes. You’ll want to make sure those minty pieces are evenly spread throughout the dough for that extra crunch!

Shaping the Dough

Once you have your dough ready, it’s shaping time! Spoon out small balls of cookie dough, about less than 1 tablespoon each, and roll them between your hands to form perfect balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. To enhance the flavors and texture, pop the entire sheet into the fridge for one hour to rest.

Baking the Cookies

Now it’s time to bake! First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare additional baking sheets with parchment paper. After the dough has chilled, divide the dough balls onto the lined baking sheets, placing about 12 cookies per sheet. Bake in that preheated oven for about 11 minutes for perfectly soft cookies.

Adding the Peppermint Kisses

Once baked, remove those gorgeous cookies from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, press an unwrapped Peppermint Kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth will help the Kisses melt slightly, creating a delicious chocolatey center. To set the shape, place the cookies in the freezer for 10 minutes after pressing in the Kisses.

Serving Suggestions

These Peppermint Kiss Cookies are best enjoyed warm. Serve them accompanied by a glass of milk, a warm cup of hot cocoa, or a festive holiday punch. They’re perfect on cookie trays for gatherings or simply shared with friends and family.

Tips for Success

Here are a few helpful tips to elevate your cookie game:

Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
Chill the dough before baking for better texture.
Keep an eye on them and avoid overbaking; remove cookies while still soft to enjoy a chewy bite.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Experiment with different flavored Kisses like almond or caramel. You can also consider adding colorful sprinkles or drizzling white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a festive touch.

Storage Tips

If you have any cookies left after your festivities, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just ensure they are well-wrapped!

Pairing Ideas

These cookies pair beautifully with a rich espresso or a sweet dessert wine. They also complement other holiday sweets, like gingerbread or sugar cookies, creating a festive dessert spread.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate than Hershey’s Kisses?
Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or any other favorite chocolate you have on hand.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the blend’s properties to ensure proper baking.

3. Can I add more crushed candy canes?
If you’re a fan of extra minty flavors, definitely adjust according to your taste preference. However, be cautious, as too much might affect the dough consistency.

4. How long can I store these cookies?
In an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or several months if frozen.

5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just make sure to chill it well!

Nothing captures the holiday spirit quite like Peppermint Kiss Cookies. Their sweet, festive flavor and delightful look make them a must-have treat for your holiday gatherings. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whip up a batch and enjoy the holiday magic in every bite!