As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of baked goods fills the air, bringing back cherished memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. One of my favorite traditions has always been baking cookies to share with loved ones, and these Peppermint Kiss Cookies hold a special place in my heart. The combination of soft, buttery cookies topped with a delightful Peppermint Kiss creates a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
These cookies are not just delicious; they are visually stunning with their vibrant colors and festive appeal. I often prepare them for holiday parties, potlucks, or simply to enjoy at home with my family while sipping hot cocoa. The moment you unwrap those Peppermint Kisses and press them into the warm cookies, you can almost hear the joyful exclamations from everyone around the table. They are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for novice bakers or those short on time. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you can have a batch of these delightful cookies ready to share in no time.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar, plus 1/2 cup for garnish
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon coarse green sugar
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon coarse red sugar
- 36 Peppermint Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. (The mixture should look creamy at this point.)
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just blended, being careful not to overmix. (The dough should be soft but not sticky.)
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. (Keep an eye on them; you want a soft center.)
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Peppermint Kiss into the center of each cookie, then cool on a wire rack.
Tips for Success
- For a uniform size, use a cookie scoop.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- You can substitute the Peppermint Kisses with other flavored chocolates if desired.
- Experiment with different colored sugars for a unique visual appeal.
Recipe Science
The combination of butter and sugar in this recipe creates a light and fluffy base, which is essential for achieving that soft texture. The baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise as they bake. The addition of the Peppermint Kisses not only enhances the flavor but also provides a beautiful finish that makes these cookies festive and inviting.
Serving Suggestions
These Peppermint Kiss Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the cookies on a festive platter and sprinkle with additional colored sugar for a touch of sparkle. They are best enjoyed warm but can also be served at room temperature.
Storage & Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. Note that the Peppermint Kisses may soften slightly upon storage, but the flavor will remain delightful.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. - How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. - Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. - What can I use instead of Peppermint Kisses?
You can use chocolate chips, caramel candies, or any other favorite chocolate candy for a different flavor.
