Chocolate Kiss Cookies
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about the way a simple cookie can transport us back to cherished moments of childhood. I remember the first time I baked Chocolate Kiss Cookies with my grandma—it was a rainy afternoon, and the kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of cocoa and sugar. Every time I make these delightful treats, I’m reminded of those cozy afternoons spent laughing and learning in the heart of our home. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines nostalgia with simplicity, these Chocolate Kiss Cookies are your answer.
Baking these cookies not only fills your home with a heavenly aroma but also offers a few more delightful benefits. Firstly, they’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for baking with little ones or when you’re short on time. Secondly, they’re a great way to bring people together—who can resist the allure of warm cookies straight from the oven? Thirdly, these cookies are a wonderful gift, wrapped up in a little box to share your homemade love with friends and neighbors. Finally, they’re the perfect balance of soft, chewy cookie and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, ensuring they’re a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Chocolate Kiss Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of home-baked goodness. With a soft, chocolatey base and a classic Hershey Kiss nestled on top, they’re a delightful indulgence for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy weekend at home, or a festive holiday party, these cookies bring a touch of sweetness and warmth that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re an easy recipe to whip up when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility. They can fit just about any occasion, whether it’s a small get-together or a grand celebration. Imagine serving these at a holiday party—your guests will be reaching for seconds and possibly thirds! They’re also perfect for a quiet night in with a good book or a movie. Their simple yet indulgent nature makes them a staple for any baker’s repertoire.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To make these cookies truly Easy Peasy, you don’t need much—just a few trusty kitchen tools. Start with a large mixing bowl for combining your ingredients and a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar to fluffy perfection. You’ll also need a whisk for your dry ingredients, a set of measuring cups and spoons, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Finally, a wire rack for cooling will ensure your cookies set perfectly after they come out of the oven.
Having these tools ready and organized will streamline your baking process, making it a smoother experience from start to finish. A silicone spatula can also be handy for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl to ensure every bit of dough is incorporated. If you want to make uniform cookies, consider using a cookie scoop—this not only makes the task easier but also ensures even baking.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1½ cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar (for coating)
- Hershey Kisses, about 24
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1½ cups sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for ensuring your cookies have the right texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs should be fully incorporated for a smooth batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, blending well. Take your time with this step to prevent overmixing, which can make the cookies tough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in the ½ cup sugar. This sugar coating adds a delightful crunch to the exterior of your cookies.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Leave enough space for the cookies to spread slightly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until set but not hard. The cookies should be slightly underbaked when you take them out; they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Immediately press one Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth of the cookie will slightly melt the base of the Kiss, helping it adhere.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. This ensures they don’t break apart when moving them.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 10 minutes • Total Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 180 kcal (per cookie) • Servings: 24 cookies
Note: Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a lighter cookie texture. Press the Hershey Kiss into the cookie right after baking to ensure it sticks without melting too much.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These delightful cookies aren’t just about indulgence; they’re crafted with ingredients that bring both flavor and some benefits. Cocoa powder, the heart of these cookies, is rich in antioxidants which can contribute to overall wellness. Antioxidants in cocoa are known to help fight inflammation, improve heart health, and even boost mood, making these cookies a feel-good treat.
The butter provides a creamy texture and richness, which is essential for the melt-in-your-mouth quality these cookies are known for. While butter is often seen as indulgent, it’s also a source of vital vitamins like A, D, and E. Eggs add protein that helps bind the cookies together, ensuring they hold their shape while baking and providing structure.
Vanilla extract imparts a warm, comforting aroma, making each bite a sensory delight. It’s often underestimated, but the complexity of vanilla can elevate the flavor profile of your cookies significantly. Although these cookies are a treat, they’re a delightful one to savor, especially when shared with loved ones.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
Chocolate Kiss Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and desserts. Enjoy them with a cold glass of milk, a steaming cup of coffee, or a cozy mug of hot chocolate for a classic combination. The rich chocolate flavor of the cookies complements the creaminess of milk or the bitterness of coffee, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
For a more decadent dessert experience, serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, chocolatey cookie and the cold, creamy ice cream is a delightful treat for the taste buds. These cookies also make a charming addition to any dessert platter, nestled among other homemade goodies for a festive and inviting presentation.
Consider pairing them with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, offering a balanced dessert experience.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To keep your Chocolate Kiss Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The airtight container will help maintain their softness and prevent them from drying out. If you find yourself with a surplus, these cookies freeze beautifully—simply place them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them for up to three months.
When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked warmth. Whether it’s a late-night snack or a sweet start to your day, these cookies are a comforting treat whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This extra step can help prevent freezer burn and preserve their flavor.
Baking these Chocolate Kiss Cookies is like wrapping yourself in a warm hug from your kitchen. The combination of simple ingredients, easy steps, and delightful results makes them a favorite in any home. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies promise to bring joy and sweetness to your day. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of baking fill your home with love.
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Chocolate Kiss Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1½ cups sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, blending well.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in the ½ cup sugar.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until set but not hard.
- Immediately press one Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
