Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Kiss Cookies are festive, buttery cookies with a hint of peppermint flavor and a signature Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss pressed on top. These cookies are perfect for the holiday season, offering a beautiful red and white swirl and a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their peppermint twist and soft crumb make them a cheerful and irresistible treat for cookie exchanges or Christmas parties.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourunsalted buttergranulated sugareggpeppermint extractvanilla extractbaking powderred food coloring (optional)Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses (unwrapped)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

(Optional) Add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the dough reaches a light red or pink hue.

Scoop dough into small balls and roll gently between your palms. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set but not browned.

Remove from the oven and immediately press a Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8-10 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Roll dough balls in granulated sugar or crushed peppermint before baking for added crunch.
Use chocolate Kisses for a different flavor twist.
Add a bit of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate peppermint variation.
Use green food coloring for a festive color contrast.

storage/reheating

Store Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave for 5-8 seconds to slightly soften the Kiss.

FAQs

Can I use other Kiss flavors?

Yes, but Candy Cane Kisses give the best festive flavor and look.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessarily, but chilling for 15-30 minutes can help prevent spreading.

Why did my Kisses melt?

Press them in right after baking and avoid touching them as they cool—they will firm back up.

Can I make these without food coloring?

Absolutely, the food coloring is just for a festive touch.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales easily for larger batches.

Are these cookies overly minty?

No, the peppermint is mild and balanced with the buttery cookie base.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Are they good for gifting?

Yes, they package beautifully and hold up well for holiday gift boxes.

Can kids help make them?

Definitely! Kids love placing the Kisses on top.

Conclusion

Peppermint Kiss Cookies are a charming and festive holiday favorite with a buttery base and a cool peppermint finish. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or hosting a holiday party, these cookies bring cheer and a touch of peppermint magic to every bite. Add them to your seasonal baking list for a crowd-pleasing treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Print