There’s something truly magical about a batch of freshly baked cookies, especially when they’re as delightful as Hershey Kiss Cookies. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday treats, or just because, these cookies combine the rich taste of peanut butter with the irresistible sweetness of chocolate. I can still remember the first time I brought these to a potluck; they were gone in minutes, and I had to share the recipe with everyone who came by. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes Hershey Kiss Cookies so special is their versatility and the joy they bring to any occasion. They are easy enough for kids to help out with, making baking a fun family activity. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate is hard to beat.
"These cookies were a hit at our school bake sale! Everyone couldn’t get enough of them," says a happy home baker.
These cookies also fit perfectly into various occasions—from birthday parties to cozy weekends at home. You can whip them up quickly, which is always a blessing during busy weeks.
How to Make Hershey Kiss Cookies
Creating Hershey Kiss Cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheet to ensure everything runs smoothly. The cookie dough consists of a heavenly mix of creamy peanut butter and sugars, blended until perfectly smooth. After incorporating the eggs and vanilla, the dry ingredients are folded in to create a soft dough.
Next, you’ll form the dough into small balls and place them on the baking sheet. A quick bake in the oven lets the cookies rise to a beautiful golden hue. As soon as they come out, you press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie, adding a touch of sweetness and charm. Finally, allowing them to cool will make for the perfect texture, giving you soft and chewy cookies.
Ingredients
To make these delightful Hershey Kiss Cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Hershey’s Kisses (about 36)
For those looking to make substitutions, creamy almond butter works just as well in place of peanut butter. If you’re wishing for a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda, salt, and flour. Slowly add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Hershey Kiss Cookies
These cookies can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature. For a fun twist, consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re hosting a party, arrange them on a decorative platter and watch them disappear in no time. They could even be a charming addition to a dessert table at a special occasion or birthday bash.
How to Store
After your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for several months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or bake them on low heat for a few minutes.
Tips to Make
Making Hershey Kiss Cookies is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time. First, ensure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If the dough feels too sticky, chilling it for a half hour in the refrigerator can help with rolling. Be sure not to overbake; just a minute or two past the suggested time can change the texture. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different flavored Kisses to add a unique spin!
Variations
Once you master the classic recipe, try some fun variations! Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist or mix in chocolate chips for added texture. You might also explore using almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. For a seasonal touch, consider incorporating crushed peppermint candies during the holidays.
FAQs
How do I ensure my cookies are chewy?
To keep your cookies chewy, avoid overbaking and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute designed for baking; just check the package instructions for equivalent measurements.
What should I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough feels too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Hershey Kiss Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with an all-purpose gluten-free blend.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re loving this easy cookie recipe, you might want to explore other delightful options like our Protein Muffins or check out our Mini Bento Cake Recipe. Each recipe is family-friendly and designed for quick preparation, making baking fun and fast!
Don’t forget to visit our social pages for more cozy baking inspiration:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Hershey Kiss Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda, salt, and flour. Slowly add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.