Candy Cane Kiss Cookies (Classic Christmas Cookie Recipe)

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies: A Classic Christmas Cookie Recipe

When it comes to Christmas cookies, few delights can compare to the joy of biting into a warm, chewy Candy Cane Kiss Cookie. This classic holiday treat combines the rich, buttery flavor of cookie dough with the festive crunch of crushed candy canes, topped off with a melty Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss that makes every bite feel like a hug from the season itself.

These cookies are a wonderful kaleidoscope of textures and flavors—a soft cookie with bursts of peppermint sweetness, guaranteed to awaken nostalgic memories of holiday gatherings and laughter. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland, making these cookie delights worth every moment spent crafting them. They are fast to prepare, incredibly festive, and perfect for little hands eager to help, making them a fantastic family activity during the holidays.

What’s Your Holiday Sweet Tooth Craving?

Do you find yourself daydreaming about the perfect holiday cookie, one that perfectly captures the essence of the season? Picture this: a soft, buttery cookie dough melting in your mouth, finished off with a velvety kiss of peppermint chocolate atop a delightful crunch of candy cane.

Is it the memories of holiday baking with your loved ones that draws you in, or is it the anticipation of sharing these festive delights at family gatherings? Whichever it is, these Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are bound to evoke feelings of warmth, joy, and community.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Prep: This cookie recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for little hands to help with mixing and rolling.

• Crowd-Pleaser: They’re not only gorgeous but also delicious—everyone will want a second (or third) helping.

• Nostalgia in Every Bite: They are a delightful way to create lasting traditions during holiday gatherings.

• Customizable: Add your spin by experimenting with different flavored kisses or decorative sprinkles.

Ingredients

To bring your Dream Candy Cane Kiss Cookies to life, you will need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This provides the rich, creamy base for your cookies.

• 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness that balances the richness of the butter.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth with its warm, comforting fragrance.

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: A delightful twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie that holds everything together.

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures your cookies rise to the perfect chewy texture.

• 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 4-5 candy canes): They add a festive crunch and vibrant color.

• 32 unwrapped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses: The star of this cookie, which provides a dreamy, chocolatey finish.

Timing

These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies strike a remarkable balance between indulgence and speed. In under 30 minutes, you can have warm cookies fresh from the oven, making them an ideal choice for a last-minute holiday dessert.

While they’re fast and fun to make, each bite is a luxurious experience—from the gooey chocolate kiss to the crisp bites of candy cane.

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this will take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Beat in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt until everything is well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix, or the texture will change.

5. Fold in the crushed candy canes gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, adding a festive touch.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them into smooth round shapes. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart to allow for spreading.

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

8. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing it to melt slightly—pure bliss!

9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, drawing everyone in!

Nutritional Information

One serving of these delectable Candy Cane Kiss Cookies (approximately two cookies) contains about 150 calories. It’s a delightful indulgence during the holiday season, allowing you to enjoy treats without guilt.

Keep in mind that enjoying a sweet treat here and there can enhance your holiday spirit—there’s no need to skimp on joy!

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking to indulge with a slightly healthier twist, consider these substitutions:

• Low-sugar swap: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol to reduce the sweetness while maintaining flavor.

• Dairy-free options: Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative, ensuring no dairy impacts your enjoyment.

• Gluten-free adaptation: A good cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend works well, allowing everyone to join in the fun without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are perfect to enjoy by themselves but can be made extra special with a few indulgent pairings:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream: Place a cookie on top of a scoop for a festive sandwich that melts in your mouth.

• Pair with hot cocoa or festive eggnog: The peppermint from the cookie complements the warm, rich beverages wonderfully.

• Serve at holiday gatherings: These cookies make beautiful gifts or party favors when packaged in festive boxes.

Common Mistakes

Even seasoned bakers can run into little hiccups while making these cookies. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on them in the oven. The edges should be lightly golden; the centers will continue to cook when removed.

• Texture issues: Overmixing the dough can lead to a tough cookie instead of the desired chewy version.

• Messy baking: Set up a clean workspace before starting, and invest in some good tools to make the process smoother.

Storing Tips

These cookies can be made ahead of time, and they store beautifully!

• Freezing portions: Cool the cookies completely, then place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating instructions: To enjoy warm cookies later, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm and the chocolate is gooey again.

Tempted to Bake These Cookies ASAP?

Now that you know how to whip up these delightful Candy Cane Kiss Cookies, what are you waiting for? Let the scents of butter, sugar, and peppermint fill your kitchen as you create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are bound to bring joy and sweetness to your holiday season.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these delectable treats today!

FAQs

Can I use different flavored kisses?

Absolutely! While Candy Cane Kisses are perfect for this recipe, try other flavors like chocolate or peanut butter for a delicious twist.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Consider adding colorful sprinkles or drizzling melted white chocolate on top before serving to really make them pop!

What should I do if my dough is too dry?

If your dough feels dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you achieve a smooth, slightly tacky texture.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be substituted in a pinch, though it might slightly affect the flavor and texture.

How long will these cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will remain fresh for up to a week—or longer if frozen!

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