The rich scent of peppermint wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday kitchen filled with laughter and joy. This is the magic of baking Peppermint Kiss Cookies, a delightful holiday treat that combines a soft sugar cookie base with a creamy peppermint kiss on top. Not only do these festive cookies add a pop of vibrant color to your Christmas cookie tray, but their unique peppermint flavor makes them a refreshing twist on the traditional holiday dessert. With quick prep and the ability to impress even the pickiest of guests, these cookies are a must-bake this season. Are you ready to fill your home with the sweet aromas of the holidays? Let’s get started!
Why are Peppermint Kiss Cookies irresistible?
Festive Fun: These cookies are a vibrant addition to any holiday gathering, bringing color and joy to your cookie tray.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these treats in no time.
Unique Flavor: The combination of a soft sugar cookie and the refreshing taste of peppermint kisses creates a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for cookie exchanges or as festive gifts, everyone will rave about these charming cookies! For more cookie inspiration, check out Tiramisu Cookies Steal or Pumpkin Oat Cookies.
Make Ahead: Freeze the dough for last-minute baking, ensuring fresh cookies whenever you need them.
Peppermint Kiss Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to gather your baking essentials for these delectable Peppermint Kiss Cookies that will light up your holiday season!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; no direct substitute, but gluten-free flour works well.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a light texture; always check freshness for the best results.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors without being overpowering; adjust if using salted butter.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and control over saltiness; salted butter can also be used with slight salt reduction.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cookie and helps achieve a tender texture; decrease for a less sweet treat.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; there’s no suitable vegan alternative for this recipe.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
For the Decorations
- Coarse Green Sugar – Festively sprinkles on the cookies; swap with any colorful or granulated sugar as desired.
- Coarse Red Sugar – Offers a similar decorative effect; other sugars can be used in its place.
- Peppermint Kisses – The star ingredient providing that classic peppermint burst; can substitute with chocolate kisses if preferred.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial first step ensures that your Peppermint Kiss Cookies bake evenly, providing that perfect soft center and slightly crispy edges. While the oven warms up, you can gather all your ingredients, so everything is ready to go when it’s time to mix.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step is essential as it combines the leavening agent and seasonings evenly throughout the flour to ensure consistent cookie texture. Once well combined, set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of sugar using a hand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’re aiming for a pale, creamy texture that will create a great foundation for your cookies. Once fluffy, you’re ready to add the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, add 1 large egg to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Incorporating these ingredients adds moisture and flavor, creating a deliciously rich base for your Peppermint Kiss Cookies. Make sure everything is well-mixed for an even batter.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to hold together but remain soft. The dough will start to form, and you’ll see it come together beautifully, ready for the next lovely step in the baking process.
Step 6: Prepare the Dough
Divide the cookie dough in half. In one half, gently fold in 1/4 cup of coarse green sugar, and in the other half, incorporate 1/4 cup of coarse red sugar. This will give each batch vibrant colors and festive flavors! Once mixed, cover the dough and let it chill for about 30 minutes if it feels sticky, making it easier to shape.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once the dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls. After shaping each ball, roll it in the corresponding colored sugar to give the cookies a beautiful finish. This step not only enhances their festive look but also adds a delightful crunch to every bite, making your Peppermint Kiss Cookies as lovely to see as they are to taste.
Step 8: Bake
Place the sugar-coated cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, flattening them slightly with the palm of your hand. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they should remain soft in the center. Your kitchen will fill with the sweet smell of holiday baking!
Step 9: Add Kisses
As soon as you take the baking sheet out of the oven, gently press a Peppermint Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will slightly melt the candies, allowing them to stick perfectly to the cookie. Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes; this will ensure the kisses take the perfect shape as they set.
Step 10: Cool
Finally, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital for letting the kisses harden and keeping the cookie from becoming too mushy. Once cooled, your beautiful Peppermint Kiss Cookies are ready to devour or to share with loved ones during the holiday season!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Kiss Cookies
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Sticky Solution: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to make shaping easier, ensuring stunning Peppermint Kiss Cookies.
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Kiss Care: Allow the cookies to cool completely before moving them; this prevents the peppermint kisses from melting into a puddle of chocolate.
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Freshness Matters: Make sure your baking powder is fresh; expired powder can lead to flat cookies. Always check it for optimal results.
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Batch & Freeze: Consider freezing the unbaked dough balls, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes without much hassle.
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Add Crunch: For a delightful twist, add crushed candy canes to the dough or as a topping for an extra layer of peppermint flavor and crunch.
What to Serve with Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Creating a magical holiday experience doesn’t stop at baking these delightful cookies; it’s all about complementing them with festive treats and drinks!
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety chocolate pairs beautifully with the peppermint flavors, creating an indulgent duo. Top it with whipped cream for added decadence.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and juiciness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. Think of pomegranate seeds and citrus slices for extra zing.
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Spiced Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine enhance the cozy, joyful atmosphere of the holiday season. Sip this delightful drink as you enjoy your cookies for a perfect pairing.
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Gingerbread Men: Embrace the holiday spirit with traditional gingerbread cookies. Their spiced flavor contrasts nicely with the peppermint, creating a delightful cookie platter.
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Roasted Chestnuts: These nutty delights add a wonderful textural element and taste, evoking the nostalgia of winter festivities. A great snack to munch on alongside your Peppermint Kiss Cookies!
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink, creamy and rich, will embrace the festive flavors of your cookies. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg on top to elevate the experience.
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Candy Cane Brownies: For those looking to indulge a little further, brownies with crushed candy canes on top make a sweet addition. They bring a chocolaty richness that complements the minty kiss beautifully.
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Winter Salad: A light salad with kale, cranberries, and walnuts rounds out your meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. The crunchy textures harmonize with each bite.
Peppermint Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen while making these delightful Peppermint Kiss Cookies!
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate kisses for a lactose-free option, making these cookies accessible for everyone.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free treat that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Extra Peppermint: Mix in crushed peppermint candies into the dough for a crunchy texture that boosts the peppermint flavor in every bite.
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Color Variations: Swap in different colored sugars for fun candy-like decorations. Imagine bright blue or festive gold for striking cookie aesthetics!
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Chocolate Lovers: Replace peppermint kisses with dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses to add a rich twist perfect for chocolate lovers.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans for added flavor and crunch; they pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your batter for a warm, spicy backdrop that balances the peppermint refreshment beautifully.
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Chewy Twist: For a chewier texture, try substituting half the granulated sugar with brown sugar, deepening the flavor and softness.
If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, don’t forget to check out these tempting treats: Chocolate Chip Cookies and Pumpkin Smores Cookies. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, or if you prefer, freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. To maintain their quality, be sure to wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the frozen cookies on a baking sheet, and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, freshly baked Peppermint Kiss Cookies with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness, ensuring they’re protected from moisture.
Fridge: If you prefer extra chill, these cookies can be placed in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but make sure to use a sealed container to avoid any flavor absorption.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; simply bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time for perfect Peppermint Kiss Cookies.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds. This will melt the kisses slightly and give you that fresh-baked taste!
Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint kisses?
Look for peppermint kisses that are smooth and free from any dark spots or signs of melting. A fresh bag will give you the best flavor and texture for your cookies. If you’re looking for a different twist, regular chocolate kisses or even dark chocolate varieties can also be delightful substitutes!
How should I store Peppermint Kiss Cookies?
Store your Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them for up to two weeks, but be sure to use a sealed container to keep them fresh and prevent absorption of other flavors!
Can I freeze Peppermint Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to three months. Simply scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—add a minute or two to the baking time to allow for proper cooking.
What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky and difficult to work with, don’t worry! Just chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape into balls without sticking to your hands or the work surface.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
If you have allergies, keep in mind that Peppermint Kisses contain milk and may have traces of nuts. For those looking for a vegan option, consider experimenting with a plant-based butter alternative, although the texture may vary slightly. Always check the ingredient labels for any other allergens!
Delicious Peppermint Kiss Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half; fold in green sugar in one half and red sugar in the other.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll in the corresponding colored sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet and flatten slightly; bake for 8-10 minutes.
- Press a Peppermint Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Cool on a wire rack completely before serving.
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