Chocolate kiss cookies, also known as peanut butter blossom cookies, are a classic treat featuring a soft peanut butter cookie base topped with a chocolate kiss. Here’s a simple recipe to make them at home:
Chocolate Kiss Cookies are a delightful and festive treat that perfectly embodies the spirit of Christmas baking. These charming cookies feature a soft and chewy chocolate base, topped with a rich, melty chocolate kiss, creating a delicious combination that is sure to please everyone during the holiday season. With their beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor, Chocolate Kiss Cookies are a must-have addition to any Christmas cookie platter or holiday gathering.
To prepare Chocolate Kiss Cookies, the first step is to preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, the cookie dough is prepared. In a mixing bowl, the softened butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a tender cookie. The eggs and vanilla extract are then added, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt—are whisked together. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dry ingredients are gradually added to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, making it easy to scoop and shape.
Once the dough is ready, small portions are rolled into balls, typically about one inch in diameter. These cookie dough balls are then placed on a lined baking sheet, spaced a few inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. For an extra festive touch, the cookie dough balls can be rolled in granulated sugar or powdered sugar before baking, giving them a beautiful sparkle and a hint of sweetness.
The cookies are baked in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. It’s important not to overbake the cookies, as they will continue to firm up as they cool. As soon as the cookies are removed from the oven, a chocolate kiss is gently pressed into the center of each cookie. The warmth of the cookie will cause the kiss to melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
After the kisses are added, the cookies are allowed to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before being transferred to a wire rack to cool completely. The result is a batch of beautifully soft and chewy Chocolate Kiss Cookies, with a rich chocolate flavor and a delightful surprise in every bite.
Chocolate Kiss Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be customized with different flavors of kisses, such as peanut butter or caramel, to create unique variations. Additionally, you can add mix-ins to the cookie dough, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or festive sprinkles, to enhance the flavor and texture.
These cookies are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. They also make a wonderful gift when packaged in decorative tins or boxes, spreading holiday cheer to friends and family.
In summary, Chocolate Kiss Cookies are a festive and delicious treat that combines a soft chocolate cookie base with a creamy chocolate kiss on top. With their rich flavors, beautiful presentation, and easy preparation, these cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and savoring these irresistible Christmas cookies!
Ingredients:
- – 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- – 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- – 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- – 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- – 1 large egg
- – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- – 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 teaspoon baking soda
- – 1/4 teaspoon salt
- – About 36 chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Shape the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
8. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie, pressing down gently until the edges crack.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, store the chocolate kiss cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
11. Enjoy these classic and irresistible treats with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
These chocolate kiss cookies are perfect for holidays, bake sales, or anytime you’re craving a sweet and satisfying snack. They’re easy to make and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy!