Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Published: July 5, 2025

Experience the Joy of Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

There’s something irresistibly enchanting about cookies, especially when they evoke memories of cherished holidays and joyful gatherings. Imagine biting into a melt-in-your-mouth, buttery cookie topped with a delightful burst of peppermint-infused chocolate from a Hershey’s Kiss.

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are the epitome of holiday indulgence—they’re quick enough for spontaneous baking sessions and nostalgic enough to remind you of snowy afternoons spent in the kitchen with loved ones. These delightful confections not only appeal to the eyes with their festive hues but also to the senses with their combination of flavors. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth or create a warm and inviting atmosphere for friends and family, this candy cane cookie recipe is worth making.

Are You Ready to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth?

When was the last time you indulged in a cookie that transported you straight to a winter wonderland? The kind of cookie that makes you reminisce about your favorite holiday memories—cookie exchanges, cozy movie nights, or the simple pleasure of a relaxed afternoon with a warm mug of cocoa.

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are the perfect treat for those moments. They are both festive and approachable, making them ideal for children to help whip up in the kitchen or for experienced bakers looking to create something enchanting this holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these cookies can be thrown together without much hassle.
Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and minty combo is sure to bring joy and smiles from family and friends alike.
Nostalgic Appeal: Candy canes evoke warm memories and flavors associated with the holiday season, making these cookies a taste of joy at any gathering.
Colorful Addition: The vibrant sprinkles add a festive flair, turning these cookies into the perfect centerpiece for your cookie tray.

Ingredients

To embark on your Candy Cane Kiss Cookies journey, gather these delightful ingredients:

2 cups + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour: This foundational ingredient brings structure to your cookies, making them wonderfully chewy.
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: For that perfect rise, ensuring your cookies reach the ideal texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch here elevates flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
10 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality that is simply irresistible.
1 cup granulated sugar: The stars of any cookie recipe, sugar helps create a beautifully sweet profile.
1 large egg, at room temperature: Binding everything together, adding moisture, and helping your cookies rise.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This aromatic ingredient infuses your cookies with warmth and depth.
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: A holiday staple that enhances the nostalgic peppermint flavor.
1/2 cup nonpareil sprinkles: Adding crunch and color, these sprinkles make your cookies festive and fun.
32–36 candy cane-flavor Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped: The star of this cookie recipe, bringing a gooey, chocolatey burst with every bite.

Timing

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are a fabulous mix of fast indulgence—baking them doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a fresh batch ready to warm your home and delight your family.

Alternatively, if you want to luxuriate over your baking process, feel free to let the dough chill for up to a day in the fridge, melding those rich flavors even further. But whether you’re in a hurry or looking to revel in a cozy baking session, this recipe is adaptable to fit your schedule.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl; set aside to combine dry ingredients.
In a large bowl, using a hand-held or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed until creamy (about 2 minutes). Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract and beat until combined (about 1 minute). Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed.
Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until fully combined (the dough will be very thick).
Roll dough into balls (each about 20g) and roll generously in the sprinkles. If the sprinkles don’t stick, try adding 1 teaspoon of water to the dough to help them adhere.
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to 1 day for enhanced flavor and perfect shape.
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
Place chilled dough balls on lined baking sheets, 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 minutes or until the edges are set.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before pressing a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Transfer cookies to a large plate using a thin spatula and place cookies in the freezer for 10 minutes to set the candy.
Remove from the freezer and serve! These cookies stay fresh when covered at room temperature for up to 1 week, allowing you to savor the taste of the holidays for days to come.

Nutritional Information

Each Candy Cane Kiss Cookie has approximately 130 calories. While they fall under indulgent treats, they bring the nostalgic joy of the holidays, making them a guilt-free pleasure worth sharing. Satisfy your sweet cravings without breaking the calorie count—just remember, moderation is key!

Healthier Alternatives

Looking for some healthier swaps? Consider the following alternatives:

Low-sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener to reduce sugar content.
Dairy-free: Substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour mix, keeping the baking powder and other ingredients the same.

These simple swaps enable you to enjoy a festive treat while being mindful of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are a perfect holiday treat that shines on cookie platters, making them a hit at, holiday parties or gatherings.

Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream, or enjoying them alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa for an indulgent touch.

During the chillier months, they create a cozy atmosphere that warms the heart.

Common Mistakes

Overbaking: To avoid dry cookies, keep a close eye on them in the oven. Remove them as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
Texture Issues: Ensure that butter is softened properly—not melted. Otherwise, your cookies may spread too much.
Messes: After chilling, the dough can be sticky. Keeping your hands floured can help manage this while rolling the dough into balls.

Storing Tips

To keep your Candy Cane Kiss Cookies fresh:

Freezing portions: Store extras in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating instructions: For a freshly baked experience, briefly reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a preheated oven for 5 minutes at 350°F (177°C).

These methods ensure each bite is as delightful as the first!

Tempting Conclusion

Don’t wait to experience the magic of Candy Cane Kiss Cookies. Whether you’re baking solo or calling in the family for a holiday tradition, these cookies bring warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen. They are not merely desserts; they’re sweet memories waiting to be created.

Get started with this delightful recipe, and fill your home with aromas of minty chocolate bliss that will leave your taste buds dancing.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate kisses instead of candy cane ones?
- Yes, regular chocolate kisses will work perfectly if you prefer a more classic flavor.
How can I make them more festive?
- Consider adding colored sugar or sprinkle decorations on top before baking for extra flair!
What is the best way to store these cookies?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled to cater to larger gatherings.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Indulge in the joy of making and sharing these delightful cookies this holiday season!

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