Buttery Peppermint Kiss Cookies

What Makes Peppermint Kiss Cookies So Special

Is there anything that screams “holidays” more than the cheerful crunch of a candy cane and the smell of warm cookies? I don’t think so. These peppermint kiss cookies are basically that feeling, but in edible form.

They’re the star of every cookie exchange I’ve ever brought them to. Seriously, they disappear faster than you can say “Santa Claus.” Ever wonder how to make those classic Hershey kiss cookies feel festive? The secret is that cool, creamy peppermint center.

Ingredients for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to cookie bliss. Here’s your shopping list for these perfect holiday mint cookies.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 24 Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons red and green sprinkles

Cook Time for Festive Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Good news! These Christmas peppermint cookies come together in a flash. They’re perfect for a last-minute baking spree when you realize you need a treat, stat.

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and they bake for 10-12 minutes. So you’re only about 30 minutes away from cookie heaven. If you love quick recipes, you should also check out my Cookie Dough Protein Bites!

How to Make Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Ready to make some magic? Follow these steps for the best peppermint kiss cookies on the block.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This little trick is a lifesaver for easy cleanup and prevents sticking. 🙂

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is the base of your cookie’s texture, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. Your kitchen should be smelling pretty good right about now.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix! Just mix until you no longer see streaks of flour.

Step 6: Shape and Roll

Now for the fun part! Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the red and green sprinkles and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. The centers might still look a tiny bit soft, and that’s perfect. They’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 8: The Grand Finale

This is the most important step! Immediately after taking the cookies out of the oven, gently press a Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

I’ve made these peppermint kiss cookies more times than I can count. Here are my insider secrets for success.

• Flavor Swap: Not a huge peppermint fan? Use regular milk chocolate kisses for a classic Hershey kiss cookies experience.
• Diet Tweak: For a slightly different treat, try the method from these Homemade Oreos with Candy Cane Cream for a sandwich cookie vibe.
• Prep Fix: If your dough is too sticky, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. It makes rolling much easier. This trick also works wonders for my Churro Cheesecake!
• Storage Tip: Keep the kisses in the fridge until the very last second. A cold kiss holds its shape better when pressed into the hot cookie.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Let’s be real, these are holiday cookies, and they’re meant to be a joyful indulgence! IMO, the real health benefit is the happiness they bring. But let’s talk balance.

You’re getting energy from the carbs and fats, which is great for a cozy day. Everything in moderation, right? If you’re looking for a treat with a protein boost, my Cookie Dough Protein Bites are a fantastic option. For another festive idea that’s a bit different, this Sugar Cookie Fudge is a hit.

A Lighter Version of Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Wondering, “Can I make these peppermint kiss cookies a bit healthier?” Absolutely! A few simple swaps can lighten them up without sacrificing taste.

You can try using half whole wheat flour, or reduce the sugar by a quarter cup. The cookies might be slightly less crisp, but still delicious. For a completely different but equally festive and lighter dessert, these Oreo Peppermint Cake Pops are portion-controlled fun. And if you love healthier snacks, don’t forget my Cookies and Cream Popcorn!

Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

Baking for friends or family with dietary needs? No problem. Here’s how you can adapt these holiday mint cookies.

For low sugar needs, use a sugar substitute like stevia that measures cup-for-cup like sugar. For gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works wonderfully. Just be sure your candy cane kisses are certified gluten-free.

How to Serve Peppermint Kiss Cookies

I love serving these cookies on a big platter with a pot of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk. They are the ultimate Christmas peppermint cookies for parties.

They pair beautifully with other holiday treats, like a slice of my Churro Cheesecake or a bowl of Cookies and Cream Popcorn. For another minty dessert option, this Sugar Cookie Fudge is a great companion.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers can have a cookie mishap. Here’s how to avoid the common pitfalls with peppermint kiss cookies.

Using melted butter: This is the biggest one! Your butter must be softened, not melted, for the right texture.

Overbaking: Take them out when the edges are golden. They continue to cook on the hot pan.

Waiting to add the kiss: You have to press the kiss in immediately while the cookies are warm so it melts slightly and sticks.

Remember, baking is a learning process. My first batch of protein bites was a mess, but practice makes perfect!

How to Store Peppermint Kiss Cookies

To keep your peppermint kiss cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for about 5 days.

You can also freeze them! Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For more great make-ahead treats, check out my Churro Cheesecake and Cookie Dough Protein Bites.

Try This Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe Yourself

I really hope you give these peppermint kiss cookies a try. They’re more than just a recipe; they’re a little piece of holiday magic you can share.

They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, leaving out for Santa, or just enjoying with your family. If you love these, you might also enjoy my Cookies and Cream Popcorn, Churro Cheesecake, or Cookie Dough Protein Bites for more delicious ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions