The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and of course, delicious treats. Among the plethora of holiday goodies, Peppermint Kiss Cookies stand out as a festive favorite. These delightful cookies, adorned with vibrant peppermint kisses, not only captivate the eyes but also enchant the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to indulge with a cozy cup of hot chocolate, these cookies promise to add a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations.
Ingredients
Before diving into the baking process, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar, plus 1/2 cup for rolling
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Green and red coarse sugar for decoration (optional)
- 36 unwrapped Peppermint Kisses
Instructions
Making Peppermint Kiss Cookies is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your batch of festive cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a creamy base for your cookies. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is mixed in well. Then, blend in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
- Shape Dough: Scoop out 1-inch balls of dough. Roll them in your hands to form smooth balls, then roll half of them in green sugar and the other half in red sugar for a festive touch.
- Flatten and Bake: Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Gently flatten each ball with your fingers. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Add Kisses: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, press a Peppermint Kiss into the center of each cookie. Let them cool completely before storing to ensure the kisses set properly.
Nutrition Facts
For those mindful of their caloric intake during the holidays, here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional content:
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: Approximately 91
- Total Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 55mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g
These cookies offer a sweet indulgence with a reasonable calorie count, making them a guilt-free treat during festive gatherings.
How to Serve
Peppermint Kiss Cookies are not just a delightful treat; they are versatile and can be enjoyed in various contexts that enhance their charm and flavor. Here are some comprehensive suggestions on how to serve these festive cookies to maximize their enjoyment:
1. With Beverages
One of the most enjoyable ways to savor Peppermint Kiss Cookies is by pairing them with a variety of beverages. The combination of flavors can elevate the cookie-eating experience:
- Coffee: A rich, freshly brewed cup of coffee complements the minty sweetness of the cookies beautifully. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sugary elements of the cookie, making each bite a harmonious experience. Consider trying different coffee styles, such as an espresso or a creamy latte, to find your perfect match.
- Tea: The soothing nature of tea makes it an ideal companion. For a festive touch, opt for peppermint tea, which will echo the cookie’s flavor, or a spiced chai that adds warmth and complexity. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or vanilla, can also provide a gentle contrast that allows the peppermint to shine.
- Hot Chocolate: Indulge your sweet tooth by serving these cookies alongside a rich mug of hot chocolate. The creamy texture and chocolatey flavor of the drink pair excellently with the cookies, creating a cozy and luxurious treat. For an extra touch, top your hot chocolate with whipped cream, crushed peppermint, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
2. As Dessert
Peppermint Kiss Cookies can hold their own as a standalone dessert, but they also shine when served as part of a larger holiday dessert spread:
- Dessert Platter: Create an enticing dessert platter by arranging Peppermint Kiss Cookies alongside traditional holiday favorites like fruitcake, gingerbread cookies, and sugar cookies. You can also include seasonal fruits such as pomegranate seeds, cranberries, or clementines for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richer flavors of the baked goods.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Elevate the cookie experience by turning them into ice cream sandwiches. Simply take two cookies and place a generous scoop of peppermint or vanilla ice cream in between. Roll the edges in crushed candy canes for that extra festive flair. This delightful dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a fun treat for kids (and adults!) alike.
- Layered Desserts: Consider incorporating crushed Peppermint Kiss Cookies into layered desserts. You can create a trifle using layers of whipped cream, chocolate pudding, and cookie crumbles for a delightful presentation that combines flavors and textures.
3. Gift Giving
Homemade gifts are a heartfelt way to show appreciation during the holiday season, and Peppermint Kiss Cookies make for an excellent choice:
- Decorative Packaging: Invest in decorative tins, boxes, or cellophane bags to package your cookies. You can personalize each package with ribbons, tags, or holiday-themed decorations. Adding a handwritten note expressing your warm wishes adds a thoughtful touch that recipients will cherish.
- Baking Gifts: Consider combining Peppermint Kiss Cookies with other homemade treats, such as fudge, caramel popcorn, or spiced nuts, to create an assorted gift basket. This not only provides variety but also caters to different taste preferences.
- Themed Gifts: Create themed gift packages by pairing the cookies with complementary items. For instance, include a bag of premium coffee or a selection of gourmet teas that pair well with the cookies. Alternatively, you could add a festive mug or a decorative serving platter that the recipient can use for future holiday gatherings.
By thoughtfully considering how to serve Peppermint Kiss Cookies, you can enhance their appeal and create memorable experiences for yourself and those you share them with. Whether enjoyed with a warm beverage, as part of a dessert spread, or gifted in charming packaging, these cookies are sure to be a hit all season long!
Additional Tips
To ensure your Peppermint Kiss Cookies turn out perfect, keep these additional tips in mind:
Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your cookies. When butter and eggs are at room temperature, they blend more easily with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother, more homogenous dough. To bring your butter to room temperature, take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes to an hour before you start baking. If you forget, you can cut the butter into small pieces to speed up the process. For eggs, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. This step not only improves the mixing process but also contributes to the cookies’ final texture, making them softer and more tender.
Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough is an often-overlooked step that can significantly enhance the final product. By refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour), you allow the fats in the butter to solidify, which can help the cookies maintain their shape during baking. This is particularly important for Peppermint Kiss Cookies, as you want them to hold their form around the chocolate kiss without spreading too much. Chilling the dough also intensifies the flavors, as the ingredients have more time to meld together. If you’re short on time, consider rolling the dough into balls and placing them on a baking sheet before chilling; this will save you some prep time later.
Perfecting the Baking Process
When it comes to baking your cookies, pay attention to your oven temperature. An oven thermometer can be a useful tool to ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as even a slight variation can alter baking times and results. Preheat your oven thoroughly before placing the cookies inside to ensure even baking. Additionally, position your baking sheets in the center of the oven for optimal air circulation. If you’re baking multiple trays, rotate them halfway through the baking time to ensure uniform browning.
Storage
Proper storage can keep your Peppermint Kiss Cookies fresh and delicious for longer. After the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming stale, you can place a slice of bread in the container; the moisture from the bread will keep the cookies soft. If you want to extend the life of your cookies even further, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Add a Personal Touch
Finally, don’t hesitate to get creative! Peppermint Kiss Cookies are incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different types of chocolate or sprinkles on top of the kisses before they set. Consider using dark chocolate kisses for a richer flavor or even adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for added holiday flair. Experiment with different extracts, like almond or vanilla, to give your cookies a unique twist. Personalizing your cookies can make them even more special and enjoyable for you and your loved ones.
By following these additional tips, you can ensure that your Peppermint Kiss Cookies not only taste amazing but also look great and have the perfect texture. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use other flavored kisses instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors such as milk chocolate or caramel kisses for a unique twist.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
3. What if I don’t have coarse sugar?
Coarse sugar is optional. If you don’t have it, you can simply roll the cookies in regular granulated sugar or skip this step altogether.
4. Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Conclusion
Peppermint Kiss Cookies are a festive and delicious way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your celebrations. With their vibrant colors and refreshing peppermint flavor, they not only look stunning on a dessert table but also capture the essence of the season in every bite. These cookies are a perfect combination of soft, buttery goodness and the sweet, minty surprise of a peppermint kiss candy on top, making them a standout treat that’s sure to delight guests of all ages.
What makes Peppermint Kiss Cookies so special is their simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a batch of these eye-catching cookies in no time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own creative twist—such as rolling the dough in colorful sprinkles or adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract—they’re guaranteed to impress. The process of baking and decorating these cookies is also a fun and festive activity, perfect for getting the whole family involved in holiday preparations.
These cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, organizing a cookie swap, or simply spending a cozy afternoon baking with loved ones, Peppermint Kiss Cookies offer a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. The joy of unwrapping peppermint kisses, rolling dough, and watching the cookies bake to perfection is as satisfying as the final result.
In addition to being a delightful treat to serve at gatherings, Peppermint Kiss Cookies also make fantastic gifts. Pack them into decorative tins, holiday-themed boxes, or clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for a thoughtful, homemade present that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Their cheerful appearance and irresistible flavor ensure they’ll be appreciated by neighbors, coworkers, teachers, or anyone on your holiday list.
Peppermint Kiss Cookies are a versatile dessert that fits seamlessly into any holiday celebration. Serve them alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy treat, or include them as part of a festive dessert platter to wow your guests. Their vibrant red-and-white design and refreshing flavor make them an ideal choice for adding a pop of holiday magic to your menu.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and embrace the festive spirit as you bake these delightful cookies. With their perfect blend of sweetness, buttery texture, and peppermint zing, Peppermint Kiss Cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy sharing these delectable treats with the ones you love. Happy baking and happy holidays!
