If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly combines festive flair with a delightful crunch, the Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies are tender with a buttery base, bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor thanks to both the extract and crushed candy canes, and crowned with that signature Hershey’s Peppermint Kiss pressed right into the center. They bring a wonderful holiday spirit to any gathering or simply make a cozy treat for yourself on a chilly day. Trust me, once you try this Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.

The image shows several round cookies arranged close to each other on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has one main layer that is light golden with tiny red and green specks throughout, giving them a festive look. In the middle of each cookie's top, there is a slightly sunken area holding a pointed, swirled candy piece with red and white stripes running vertically. The texture of the cookies looks soft and slightly crumbly, while the candy has a smooth, shiny finish. The overall scene captures the cookies tightly framed, showing the details of their surface and candy tops clearly, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, classic ingredients that come together to create a cookie with the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the soft butter that lends richness to the crushed candy canes which add just the right amount of crunch and peppermint punch.

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, providing structure and a soft chew.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
¼ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookie rise just enough for a tender bite.
2/3 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a soft texture.
3/4 cup white sugar: Sweetens the dough while aiding in browning during baking.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract: Amplifies the festive minty character without overpowering.
1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 3): Provides delightful crunch and peppermint bursts inside each cookie.
32 Hershey’s Peppermint Kisses, unwrapped: The crowning glory of each cookie, giving a melty, minty surprise in every bite.

How to Make Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Dry Ingredients

Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper; this will prevent your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking powder until evenly combined. Setting this aside allows you to focus on the wet ingredients separately, ensuring a smooth mixing process later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric hand mixer, beat these together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color, about three minutes. This step is essential because it incorporates air, giving your cookies a tender crumb. Next, add the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, beating again until everything is fully combined and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring the rest together. Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients into the wet mixture and continue beating until just combined. Then, fold in the crushed candy canes, evenly distributing those festive little bursts of flavor throughout your dough. This contrast between soft dough and crunchy candy cane bits makes every bite delightful.

Step 4: Form and Chill the Dough Balls

Scoop out small portions of dough, just under one tablespoon each, and roll them between your hands to make smooth balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and pop the entire tray into the fridge to chill for one hour. This chilling step helps the cookies hold their shape and intensifies the flavors, so don’t skip it!

Step 5: Bake and Add the Peppermint Kisses

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare one to three additional baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Divide the chilled dough balls evenly across the trays, about 12 per sheet, to allow even baking. Bake each batch for 11 minutes. Once out of the oven, wait about five minutes before gently pressing an unwrapped Hershey’s Peppermint Kiss into the center of each cookie. For cookies with perfectly shaped Kisses, freeze them for 10 minutes right after pressing, or simply let them cool completely before digging in.

How to Serve Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe

This image shows a close-up of several round cookies placed closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two layers: the base layer is a light beige, soft textured cookie dough flecked with small green and red specks, creating a festive look. The top layer is a round, shiny candy placed in the center of each cookie, featuring bright red and white stripes with a smooth surface that contrasts with the cookie’s soft texture. Small crumbs are scattered between the cookies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a little visual and textural charm can elevate these cookies even more. Consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of crushed peppermint or powdered sugar over the top for a snowy effect. A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies also adds a beautiful glossy finish and complements the mint flavor wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Peppermint Kiss Cookies pair beautifully with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or a creamy latte. The warmth of those drinks contrasts nicely with the cool mint flavor in the cookie and creates a comforting snack or dessert experience. For a holiday party, serve alongside a platter of assorted nuts and dried fruits for a well-rounded festive spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Presenting these cookies can be just as fun as making them. Arrange them on a festive holiday tray lined with evergreen sprigs or bright red ribbon for an instant wow factor. You can also stack them pyramid-style tied with a candy cane-striped twine for gifting. Another charming idea is to place one cookie atop a small gift box or plate as a thoughtful edible favor at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, maintaining a soft texture while keeping the Kisses perfectly intact.

Freezing

Freezing is an excellent option if you want to prepare your Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe in advance. After baking and cooling, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly stored, they can last up to three months and be thawed at room temperature when needed.

Reheating

To enjoy your cookies warm and melty, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings back the fresh-from-the-oven softness and makes the Peppermint Kiss center gooey and irresistible again. Just be careful not to overheat or the chocolate might lose its lovely texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular peppermint extract with something else?

Yes, if you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, you can use mint extract, but use less since it tends to be stronger. Alternatively, crushed peppermint candies or candy canes infused in the dough contribute great flavor, but the extract is key for that classic, concentrated mint taste.

Do I have to chill the dough for an hour?

Chilling the dough is highly recommended as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, maintaining their perfect shape. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, chilling for at least 30 minutes can still yield good results.

Can I use milk chocolate or plain kisses?

While classic Hershey’s Peppermint Kisses are the traditional choice, you can absolutely experiment with milk chocolate or even dark chocolate kisses. Just keep in mind that the distinctive minty kick will be less pronounced without the peppermint variety.

How can I make the candy canes less gritty inside the cookies?

Crush the candy canes finely, almost to a powder, but leave some small chunks for texture. This way, the pieces will blend smoothly into the dough and won’t feel too crunchy or gritty when you bite into them.

What’s the best way to avoid cracked cookies?

Ensuring your butter is properly softened and your dough is well mixed helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overbaking by keeping an eye on the cookies as they near the 11-minute mark since overbaking can dry them out and cause cracks.

Final Thoughts

Making this Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe is like inviting a little extra joy into your kitchen. Soft, minty, and festive, these cookies are sure to brighten your holiday celebrations or any chilly afternoon. I truly can’t wait for you to try them and experience that perfect melt-in-your-mouth moment with the peppermint kiss right in the center. Happy baking!