Name: Hershey’s Kiss Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ⅓ cup baking cocoa; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup butter; ⅔ cup sugar; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 egg yolk; ½ tsp vanilla; ½ cup granulated sugar; 24 Hershey's Kisses

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Hershey's Kiss Cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, with a soft, chewy base and the iconic Hershey's Kiss nestled in the center. Simple yet decadent, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Photos of Hershey’s Kiss Cookies Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, but you might need to pick up baking cocoa if you don't have it on hand. Ensure you have Hershey's Kisses ready, as they are the star of the show. Also, double-check that you have both types of sugar, granulated sugar and brown sugar, for the perfect texture.

Ingredients For Hershey's Kiss Cookies

flour: The base for the cookie dough providing structure and form.

baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.

baking cocoa: Adds rich chocolate flavor to the dough.

salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.

sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the chewy texture.

brown sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.

vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet note.

granulated sugar: Used for rolling the dough balls to create a crispy exterior.

Hershey's Kisses: The iconic chocolate candy placed in the center of each cookie.

One reader, Ebony Thomsen says:

These Hershey's Kiss cookies are delightful! The cookies are soft and chocolaty, and the Hershey's Kiss in the center adds the perfect touch. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at my family gathering. Will definitely bake these again!

Ebony Thomsen

Techniques Required for Making Hershey's Kiss Cookies

How to preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking. How to line baking sheets: Place parchment paper on the baking sheets to prevent cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier. How to combine dry ingredients: Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl until evenly distributed. How to beat butter: Use a mixer on medium speed to whip the butter until it becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 minutes. How to mix ingredients: Gradually add sugar and brown sugar to the beaten butter, then mix in the egg yolk and vanilla until well combined. How to form cookie dough balls: Use your hands to shape the dough into 1-inch balls. How to roll dough in sugar: Coat each dough ball evenly by rolling it in granulated sugar. How to create indentations: Press your thumb into the center of each dough ball to create a small well for the Hershey's Kiss. How to bake cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. How to cool cookies: Transfer the baked cookies to wire racks to cool completely before serving.

How To Make Hershey’s Kiss Cookies

When you’re a chocolate lover, the sweet decadent flavors of Hershey’s kisses wraps up in this rich kiss cookies recipe that’s holiday-worthy.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Cool Time: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupflour
1tspbaking soda
⅓cupbaking cocoa,unsweetened
¼tspsalt
½cupbutter
⅔cupsugar
⅓cupbrown sugar
1egg yolk
½tspvanilla
½cupgranulated sugar,for rolling
24Hershey’s Kisses,unwrapped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl beat butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add sugar and brown sugar, mix well. Add egg and vanilla.
Turm mixer to low and add the cocoa mixture. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
Form cookies into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar.
Place 1 inch apart on prepared baking pans.
Press thumb into the center of each cookie, leaving an indentation.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and place a Hershey’s kiss in the middle of each cookie.
Cool completely on wire racks.

Recipe Notes

If the dough is soft after mixing, refrigerate 30 to 60 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 150.93kcal
Fat: 7.20g
Saturated Fat: 4.36g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.12g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
Carbohydrates: 22.79g
Fiber: 1.17g
Sugar: 17.16g
Protein: 1.32g
Cholesterol: 16.26mg
Sodium: 78.39mg
Calcium: 9.16mg
Potassium: 65.03mg
Iron: 0.58mg
Vitamin A: 34.49µg

Helpful Technique for Making Hershey's Kiss Cookies

When forming the cookie dough balls, use a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform size, which helps them bake evenly. Additionally, make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar and brown sugar; this ensures a smooth and fluffy texture for your cookies.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time and effort when mixing the dough.

Chill the dough: If the dough is too soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle and shape.

Batch baking: Bake multiple cookies at once by using both baking sheets simultaneously.

Unwrap kisses ahead: Unwrap all Hershey's Kisses while the cookies are baking to save time when placing them on the cookies.

Substitute Ingredients For Hershey’s Kiss Cookies Recipe

flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder to achieve a similar leavening effect.
baking cocoa - Substitute with unsweetened chocolate: Melt unsweetened chocolate and use 1 ounce for every 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different texture and flavor.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar texture.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar with molasses: Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses to mimic brown sugar.
egg yolk - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg yolk.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with powdered sugar: Use 1 ¾ cups of powdered sugar for every cup of granulated sugar to maintain sweetness.
hershey's kisses - Substitute with chocolate chips: Use chocolate chips for a similar chocolate flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas for Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the cookie dough into smaller, bite-sized balls to create a more elegant presentation. This allows each Hershey's Kiss to be the star of the show.
Use decoration: Dust the finished cookies lightly with powdered sugar or edible gold dust for a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
Plate with precision: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, leaving space between each one to highlight their individual beauty.
Add a garnish: Place a small sprig of mint or a few edible flowers in the center of the plate to add a pop of color and freshness.
Create height: Stack a few cookies in the center of the plate to add dimension and draw the eye upward, creating a more dynamic presentation.
Incorporate texture: Serve the cookies on a textured surface, such as a slate or wooden board, to contrast with their smooth, glossy appearance.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few whole Hershey's Kisses and a small bowl of granulated sugar on the side of the plate to showcase the key components of the recipe.

Essential Tools for Making Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Oven: Used to bake the cookies at the specified temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheets with this ensures the cookies do not stick and makes for easy cleanup.
Baking sheets: These are the surfaces on which the cookies will be placed and baked.
Small bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mixing bowl: The main bowl where the butter, sugars, egg, and vanilla are mixed together.
Mixer: An electric mixer is used to beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, and to combine all ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring out the flour, cocoa powder, and sugars.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Spoon: Helps in scooping out the dough to form 1-inch balls.
Wire racks: Used for cooling the cookies completely after they are baked.
Thumb: Your thumb is used to press an indentation into each cookie before baking.
Hershey's kisses: These are placed in the center of each cookie after baking to create the signature look and taste.

Storing and Freezing Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
Place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of cookies to keep them from sticking to each other.
Store the cookies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They will keep fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.
If you want to keep the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen Hershey's Kiss cookies will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can also microwave them for a few seconds to warm them up slightly, if desired.
If you plan to give the cookies as a gift or take them to an event, store them in a decorative tin or box lined with tissue paper to keep them fresh and presentable.

Interesting Fact About Hershey's Kiss Cookies

A fun fact about this recipe is that Hershey's Kisses were first introduced in 1907. The iconic shape and foil wrapping have made them a popular choice for baking and desserts for over a century.

Is Making Hershey's Kiss Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This dessert recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter are pantry staples, while Hershey's Kisses are affordable and often available in bulk. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Hershey's Kiss Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Hershey's Kiss Cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - flour, sugar, butter, and Hershey's Kisses - are high in calories, fat, and refined carbohydrates. The recipe lacks nutritious elements like whole grains, fruits, or vegetables. Consuming these cookies in excess could contribute to weight gain and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar
Use dark chocolate Hershey's Kisses instead of milk chocolate for a higher percentage of cocoa and less sugar
Incorporate healthy add-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or rolled oats for extra texture and nutrition
Modulate portion sizes by making smaller cookies or enjoying them in moderation as an occasional treat

Editor's Opinion on Hershey's Kiss Cookies

This recipe for Hershey's Kiss cookies is a delightful blend of rich cocoa and buttery sweetness, perfectly balanced by the iconic Hershey's Kiss. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Rolling the dough in granulated sugar adds a pleasant crunch, while the thumbprint indentation ensures the Kiss stays in place. Baking for 10 to 12 minutes achieves a soft, chewy texture that complements the chocolate center. Overall, it's a crowd-pleasing treat that's both nostalgic and satisfying.

Enhance Your Hershey’s Kiss Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts perfectly complements the sweetness of the Hershey's Kiss Cookies, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Spiced Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of spiced butternut squash soup can be the perfect cozy companion to your dessert. The creamy texture and the hint of nutmeg and cinnamon in the soup will enhance the rich, chocolatey goodness of the cookies.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A refreshing cranberry walnut salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, and candied walnuts offers a burst of tartness and crunch. The citrus vinaigrette dressing adds a zesty note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the Hershey's Kiss Cookies.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes can provide a savory contrast to your dessert. The rich, buttery flavor with a hint of garlic and Parmesan cheese will make each bite of the cookies even more indulgent.

Grilled Pineapple with Honey and Lime: For a tropical twist, try grilled pineapple drizzled with honey and a squeeze of lime. The caramelized edges of the pineapple and the citrusy sweetness will elevate the chocolatey experience of the Hershey's Kiss Cookies.

Recipes Similar to Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossoms: Imagine the perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a delightful Hershey's Kiss.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: These cookies are a chocolate lover's dream. With a fudgy center and a powdered sugar coating, they crackle beautifully as they bake.

Snickerdoodle Cookies: A classic favorite, these cookies are soft and chewy with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for any occasion.

Thumbprint Cookies: These buttery cookies have a sweet jam center. They are as beautiful as they are delicious, perfect for dessert trays.

Double Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who can't get enough chocolate, these cookies are packed with chocolate chips and have a rich, decadent flavor.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Hershey's Kiss Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The cheese melts and mingles with the herbs, creating a rich, creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, then top them with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a refreshing, tangy finish. The crunchy bread pairs perfectly with the juicy, flavorful topping, making this a crowd-pleaser that's both simple and elegant.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, all seasoned with aromatic spices. Baked until tender, the peppers offer a comforting and hearty main course that pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Why trust this Hershey’s Kiss Cookies Recipe:

This Hershey's Kiss cookies recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for any occasion. With a balance of rich cocoa and buttery sweetness, these cookies are sure to impress. The Hershey's Kisses add a delightful touch, making each bite a treat. The detailed instructions ensure consistent results, and the use of common ingredients makes it accessible for all bakers. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and delicious outcome.

Share your thoughts on the Hershey's Kiss Cookies Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your batch turned out!

FAQ:

How do I keep the Hershey's Kisses from melting?

To keep the Hershey's Kisses from melting, make sure to press them into the cookies right after you take them out of the oven. The residual heat will soften the chocolate slightly but won't melt it completely. Let the cookies cool completely on wire racks to set the chocolate.

Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of Hershey's Kisses?

Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate you prefer, such as chocolate chips, mini peanut butter cups, or even a piece of your favorite chocolate bar. Just make sure it's a similar size to a Hershey's Kiss so it fits well in the cookie indentation.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, you don't need to chill the dough for this recipe. The cookies will hold their shape well without chilling. Just make sure to preheat your oven and follow the instructions as written.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before forming the balls and rolling them in sugar.

How should I store the cookies after baking?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.