Festive Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe: Holiday Magic in Every Bite

Sweet memories dance around this delightful peppermint kiss cookies recipe that promises pure holiday magic.

Chocolate and mint create an irresistible flavor combination perfect for chilly afternoons.

Soft, chewy cookie bases welcome delicate chocolate kisses nestled right in their center.

Festive baking brings such joy to winter kitchens and warm gatherings.

Kids adore helping press those silver-wrapped chocolate morsels into freshly baked rounds.

Crisp peppermint notes shine through each delectable bite, inviting smiles and cheerful moments.

Whip up a batch and watch everyone’s faces light with sugary delight.

Ingredients Behind Peppermint Kiss Cookies

• Flour: All-purpose flour provides the fundamental structure for these delightful cookies.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder creates a rich chocolate base for the cookie.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create a tender cookie texture.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens and helps create a soft cookie consistency.
• Peppermint Kisses: Chocolate candies with peppermint flavor that serve as the signature topping for these cookies.

• Egg: Large egg helps bind the ingredients and provides structure to the cookies.
• Cornstarch, Baking Powder: These ingredients contribute to the cookie's soft and tender texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

• Parchment Paper: Used for lining cookie sheets to prevent sticking and ensure easy cookie removal.

Step-by-Step Peppermint Kiss Cookies Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Space

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350° Fahrenheit. Grab two cookie sheets and cover them with parchment paper for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Create Creamy Butter Base

In a larger bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat butter and sugar together.

Keep mixing until the mixture looks light and fluffy like a cloud.

Step 4: Add Liquid Goodness

Drop in one egg and a splash of vanilla extract.

Mix these into your buttery base until everything looks smooth and combined.

Step 5: Bring Mixtures Together

Slowly add the dry ingredient blend into the wet mixture.

Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together with a crumbly texture.

Step 6: Shape Cookie Balls

Use a cookie scoop to grab dough portions.

Roll them into perfect little balls and place them on the prepared cookie sheets. Keep about 2 inches between each cookie.

Step 7: Create Cookie Centers

Press a measuring teaspoon gently into the center of each dough ball. Don’t worry if small cracks appear – that’s totally normal!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cookie sheet into the oven and bake for 15 minutes. The cookies should look slightly risen and ready to go.

Step 9: Add Peppermint Kiss Topping

After baking, let cookies rest for 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, press a peppermint kiss right into the center of each cookie.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool completely. This helps the flavors meld and gives them the perfect texture for munching.

Pro Tips for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
• Swap peppermint kisses with chocolate kisses for a classic chocolate version if desired.
• Use gluten-free flour blend as a perfect substitute for all-purpose flour to make cookies celiac-friendly.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Remove peppermint kisses from refrigerator 10 minutes before placing on warm cookies to prevent cracking during placement.

Variations to Refresh Peppermint Kiss Cookies

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same texture and taste for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter alternative, maintaining the rich chocolate flavor while accommodating dairy-free diets.
• Vegan Peppermint Kiss Cookies: Use egg replacer or mashed banana, substitute butter with plant-based margarine, and select vegan-friendly peppermint kisses to create a completely plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce granulated sugar by half and incorporate stevia or monk fruit sweetener, paired with sugar-free chocolate kisses for a lighter dessert option.

Pairing Suggestions for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

• Create a decadent hot chocolate with dark chocolate shavings and a hint of peppermint extract, mirroring the cookie's flavor profile and offering a warm, comforting companion.
• Complement the chocolate-peppermint cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream, balancing the richness and providing a delightful temperature contrast.
• Prepare a smooth peppermint mocha coffee that echoes the cookie's mint and chocolate notes, enhancing the overall dessert experience with a sophisticated beverage.

Storage Tips for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, for up to 5 days. Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent peppermint kisses from melting.
• Pack cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
• Place cookies in a sealed container with a tight lid, keeping them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

• Are Peppermint Kiss Cookies difficult to make?

No, these cookies are beginner-friendly and require basic baking skills. The recipe involves simple mixing techniques and straightforward steps that even novice bakers can successfully execute.

• Can I substitute the peppermint kiss with another candy?

Yes, you can use other chocolate candies like Rolos or caramel-filled chocolates. However, the peppermint flavor will change, so choose a candy that complements the chocolate cookie base.

• Why do I need to press down the center of the cookie dough?

Pressing the center creates a small indentation that helps the peppermint kiss sit perfectly in the cookie after baking. This technique ensures the candy stays in place and looks visually appealing.

Peppermint Kiss Cookies That Shine

• Craft Festive Delights: Create holiday-themed treats that bring joy and cheer to your kitchen with these delectable peppermint kiss cookies.
• Simplify Baking Process: Enjoy a straightforward recipe that requires minimal baking skills, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: Impress guests and family members with these visually appealing and deliciously flavored cookies that are ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Quick Chocolate Indulgence: Satisfy chocolate and peppermint cravings with a recipe that delivers rich, decadent flavors in every bite.

Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Peppermint kiss cookies bring festive cheer with chocolate and mint perfection. Chocolate lovers will delight in this simple holiday treat that melts hearts and creates sweet memories.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 22 peppermint kisses candies
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, room temperature)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (properly spooned and leveled)
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper for optimal baking preparation.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined and lump-free.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar in a separate large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, blending until smooth and uniform.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
6. Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough and roll into uniform balls, placing them 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheets.
7. Create a gentle indentation in the center of each dough ball using the back of a measuring teaspoon, allowing for slight natural cracking.
8. Bake for 15 minutes, or until cookies have slightly risen and edges appear set, rotating the sheet midway for even cooking.
9. Remove cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, maintaining a warm temperature.
10. Delicately press a peppermint kiss into the center of each warm cookie, ensuring a secure placement.
11. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow to cool completely, enabling the chocolate kiss to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for smoother creaming and better cookie texture.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading and maintain cookie shape.
• Use a light-colored baking sheet to prevent cookie bottoms from over-browning.
• Gluten-free alternative can be achieved by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Replace peppermint kisses with dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate experience.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• For a vegan version, swap butter with coconut oil and use egg replacement like aquafaba or flax egg.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for extra festive crunch and peppermint flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 110 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg