Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies

These Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies are perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or gifting to loved ones. Imagine a wintry evening where the smell of baking chocolate mingles with the cool scent of peppermint. That’s what you can expect when whipping up these delightful cookies! With a chewy texture and a deliciously melty peppermint kiss on top, each bite is a holiday celebration. Plus, the bright crunch of crushed candy canes adds a fun twist. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy some homemade treats, these cookies will surely put a smile on anyone’s face—and yours too!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Now, let’s explore why this recipe works so well, and how simple ingredients come together to create something magical.

Why This Recipe Works

The marriage of rich chocolate with the refreshing crunch of candy canes creates an irresistible flavor profile that captures the essence of the holiday season. By using quality ingredients and following simple techniques, these Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies achieve a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and festive flair. The combination of cocoa and peppermint provides comfort while stirring up excitement, making them a hit with all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies

These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re a delightful treat that brings a smile to anyone’s face. With a chewy texture, melty peppermint chocolates on top, and the zing of crushed candy canes, you’ll find yourself reaching for more. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights at home, or as gifts, these Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies are sure to become a favorite! They’re easy to make, and the reactions from friends and family when they first try these cookies? Pure joy.

Ingredients

To whip up your own batch, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup crushed candy canes
• 15 peppermint candy kisses (unwrapped)

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive right into making these delightful cookies.

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help your cookies bake evenly and prevent them from sticking.

Mix Wet Ingredients and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Keep mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. This step sets the foundation for rich flavor.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to gradually sift in 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder. Gently mix until everything is fully blended. You want to see a nice, thick batter forming, so don’t rush this part!

Add Flour

Next, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir until just combined. It’s important to stop mixing as soon as no flour is visible; overmixing could lead to tough cookies, and we want them chewy!

Form the Cookie Balls

Start rolling the dough into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You’ll want to make around 15 balls, so keep your hands lightly dusted with flour to prevent sticking.

Coat with Crushed Candy Canes

Now comes the fun part! Roll each dough ball in ½ cup of crushed candy canes. Make sure they’re well coated. The candy canes add that festive crunch we all love.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them spaced 1-2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly to help them spread evenly during baking.

Bake the Cookies

Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. You’re looking for set edges but soft centers. It’s a fine line! Keep an eye on them, as they should remain slightly soft even after cooling.

Add Peppermint Kisses

Once you take the cookies out of the oven, allow them to cool on the sheet for around 5-7 minutes. This is where the magic happens: gently press one peppermint kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookie will make it irresistibly melty.

Finally, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies pair exceptionally well with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Consider serving them on a festive platter for your holiday gatherings, or just enjoy them while snuggled up at home. They also make a great addition to a dessert table during family dinners.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help with mixing.
• Avoid overbaking; the cookies should remain soft in the center for the best texture.
• Use high-quality peppermint kisses for an explosion of flavor.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations:

• Substitute half the cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate for an even more fudgy outcome.
• Add ½ cup of chopped nuts to the dough for an added crunch.
• Try using white chocolate peppermint kisses to add a different color contrast and a shift in taste.

Storage Tips

Store your Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the unbaked dough or baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. That way, you always have a sweet treat ready!

Pairing Ideas

These cookies are perfect with peppermint tea, freshly brewed coffee, or even a festive spiked hot chocolate. Each pairing enhances the peppermint experience while making for a delightful treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use a different type of chocolate kiss?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate or dark chocolate kisses work just as well.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
You’re looking for edges that are set and a soft center. They will continue to firm up while cooling.

4. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Certainly! Almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can be great substitutes.

5. What if I don’t have crushed candy canes?
No problem! You can use peppermint sprinkles or even skip them for a simpler taste.

These Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies add a touch of magic to your holiday season. They’re simple to make and filled with festive flavors that everyone will adore. So grab your ingredients, invite a friend to cook alongside you, and watch as these delicious bites become a new family tradition. Happy baking!

Print