Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that perfectly combines the rich flavor of buttery cookies with the festive twist of peppermint. These cookies not only look stunning but also fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that makes the chilly season feel just a bit cozier. With their soft and chewy texture, topped off with a burst of minty sweetness from the Candy Cane Kisses, you’ll find it hard to eat just one!
Why Make This Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are a must for your holiday cookie platter. They are easy to make, which means even beginner bakers can whip them up without any fuss. Plus, the vibrant colors and festive flavors provide a delightful treat for parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy gatherings with family and friends. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet and minty, making them a fun alternative to traditional holiday cookies. They also make great gifts! Who wouldn’t love a box of these adorable cookies during the festive season?
How to Make Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
Making Candy Cane Kiss Cookies is straightforward and enjoyable! Perfect for baking with children or during a holiday get-together, the process is simple and requires minimal special equipment. Just follow the steps below to create these delightful treats and impress your loved ones with your baking prowess!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, mixing well to combine.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed peppermint candies to give those wonderful bits of crunch in every cookie.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies are light golden in color.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Allow to cool before serving, letting that Kiss create a delightful, melty center.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie provides approximately:
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g
How to Serve Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
These cookies are charming on their own but can also be served in various ways. Arrange them on a festive platter to impress guests at holiday gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa. You can also use them as a topping for ice cream or crumbled over holiday desserts for an added crunch and festive flair!
How to Store Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the unbaked dough. Simply scoop the portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them directly from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Expert Tips for Perfect Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming for the best texture and flavor.
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, you can fold in additional crushed candies or reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly.
- Watch the cookies closely towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking. They should look soft and slightly underdone; they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Don’t skip crushing the peppermint candies too finely—this ensures even distribution in the cookies.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize your Candy Cane Kiss Cookies! Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the peppermint kisses for peanut butter or caramel Kisses for a different flavor profile.
- Add white chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of extract?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can use vanilla, almond, or even hazelnut extract instead for a different flavor experience.What if I don’t have crushed peppermint candies?
You can use crushed candy canes or even sprinkle the cookies with coarse sea salt for a sweet-and-salty treat.Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, refrigerate it, and bake your cookies fresh later. Chilling can also improve the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are the perfect festive treat for any occasion! With their enchanting flavors and charming appearance, they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Easy to make and delightful to eat, this recipe is a must-try this holiday season. Feel free to share your cookie-making adventures in the comments or let us know how yours turned out. Happy baking!