Hershey’s Kiss Cookies – Easy, Festive, and Irresistibly Delicious

Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are the kind of treat that brings instant joy to anyone who takes a bite. Soft, buttery cookies rolled in colorful sanding sugar, crowned with a deliciously melty Hershey’s Kiss right in the middle. They’re a classic for a reason, often appearing at holiday parties, family gatherings, or even just cozy nights at home when you’re craving something sweet and simple. What makes these cookies so appealing is the delightful combination of textures and flavors: the slightly crisp sugary exterior, the tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, and the smooth, rich chocolate center.

The best part? These cookies are incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re not a baking pro, this recipe is practically foolproof. Plus, it’s a fun baking project to do with kids or friends, as rolling the dough in sparkling sanding sugar and pressing the chocolate Kisses into the warm cookies can feel downright magical. And let’s be real, they’re also a showstopper on any dessert tray thanks to their adorable, festive appearance.

I remember the first time I made these cookies. It was during a chilly December afternoon, and I wanted something cozy to go along with hot cocoa. The moment I pulled them out of the oven, the whole kitchen smelled like buttery vanilla goodness, with just the right hint of chocolate. It quickly became a go-to recipe, not only for holidays but also for whenever I needed a simple, comforting sweet treat.

This recipe is versatile enough to work for various occasions. Want to make them look festive for a birthday party? Just switch up the sanding sugar colors. Looking to add a fun twist? Experiment with different flavors of Hershey’s Kisses. Whatever you decide, these cookies are bound to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe. Here’s why these Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are worth making again and again:

They’re Easy to Make: Even if you’re a complete beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and forgiving. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time.

Customizable: One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can use different colors of sanding sugar to suit any holiday or special occasion. You can even switch up the flavor of the Hershey’s Kisses if you’re feeling adventurous.

Perfect Texture: The cookies are soft and buttery, with just a hint of crispiness from the sugar coating. And of course, the gooey, melted chocolate in the center makes each bite utterly irresistible.

Family-Friendly: This recipe is a fantastic project to do with kids. They’ll love rolling the dough balls in sugar and pressing the Kisses into the cookies—making it an enjoyable, hands-on experience.

Visually Stunning: Let’s not ignore the fact that these cookies are gorgeous. The sparkling sugar and shiny chocolate kiss make them look as delightful as they taste. They’ll definitely steal the show on your dessert table.

Great for Gifting: Whether it’s for a holiday cookie exchange, a thoughtful homemade gift, or just a special treat for someone you care about, these cookies are always well-received.

Affordable Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. The only thing you might need to pick up are the Hershey’s Kisses and some colorful sanding sugar, making this an inexpensive baking project.

Health Benefits

Okay, let’s be honest. Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are not exactly what you’d call a health food. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them as part of a balanced lifestyle. After all, indulging in a sweet treat every now and then can be good for the soul. And there are a few positives to consider:

Portion Control: These cookies are on the smaller side, which makes them perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it. Plus, because they’re individually portioned, it’s easier to enjoy one or two without feeling guilty.

Mindful Eating: Baking your own cookies at home gives you the power to control exactly what goes into them. You can even make slight adjustments to the recipe to suit your dietary preferences if needed.

Mental Health Boost: The act of baking can be incredibly therapeutic. Mixing ingredients, rolling the dough, and decorating the cookies can be a soothing and satisfying process, especially when you see the final product come out beautifully.

Social Connection: Making cookies for friends, family, or even just sharing them with coworkers can be a fantastic way to strengthen relationships. Food has always been a way to bring people together, and these cookies do that perfectly.

Source of Energy: While they are treats, the sugar and carbohydrates do provide a quick source of energy. Of course, moderation is key, but enjoying a cookie here and there can give you that little boost you need during a long day.

Option for Ingredient Adjustments: If you’re looking to make these cookies a bit healthier, you can try using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

These cookies are quick to prepare, making them ideal for those last-minute baking sessions when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the details:

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cooling Time: 7 minutes (2 minutes before pressing the Kisses, then 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack)
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Servings: Makes 32 cookies

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories: Approximately 120
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 1.5g
Fat: 5.5g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Cholesterol: 14mg
Sodium: 60mg
Sugar: 11g
Fiber: 0.3g

These nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. It’s worth noting that while these cookies are not the healthiest snack, they are certainly meant to be enjoyed as an occasional treat.

Now that you’ve got an idea of what makes these cookies special, let’s get into the details of how to make them.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make 32 of these delightful cookies. Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start, so the baking process goes smoothly.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (provides structure and tenderness to the cookies)
• 1/4 tsp baking soda (helps with a slight rise and a tender texture)
• 1/4 tsp salt (balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness and structure)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (adds richness and moisture)
• 1 large egg, room temperature (helps bind the ingredients and adds richness)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (provides warmth and depth of flavor)
• 1–2 tbsp milk (just enough to soften the dough for easy rolling)

Toppings:

• Various colors of sanding sugar (for rolling and decorative appeal)
• 32 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped (for that classic chocolate touch)

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these cookies from scratch.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious and festive Hershey’s Kiss Cookies. You’ll be amazed at how straightforward the process is, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Let’s get baking!

Preheat the Oven:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven rack is placed in the center position for even baking.
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking liners to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make clean-up a breeze.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Make sure everything is well-combined, as this will ensure your cookies bake evenly. Set the bowl aside for now.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar.
2. Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
3. The mixture should be light and fluffy. This step is crucial because properly creaming the butter and sugar helps give your cookies a tender, delicate texture.

Add Egg and Vanilla:

1. Crack the egg into the butter-sugar mixture and add the vanilla extract.
2. Beat again on medium speed until everything is well-combined and smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to make sure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

1. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, about one-third at a time.
2. Mix on low speed after each addition, just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.
3. The dough will be thick and slightly crumbly at this stage, which is perfectly fine.

Adjust Consistency with Milk:

1. Add milk to the dough, starting with one tablespoon.
2. Mix the dough gently and observe the consistency. You want the dough to be soft enough to roll into balls easily, but not sticky.
3. If the dough feels too dry, add another tablespoon of milk and mix again.

Shape the Dough:

1. Scoop out small portions of the dough, about one tablespoon each.
2. Roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth ball. Aim for a uniform size, so the cookies bake evenly.

Coat with Sanding Sugar:

1. Pour various colors of sanding sugar into separate shallow bowls.
2. Roll each dough ball in the sanding sugar of your choice, ensuring it’s coated evenly.
3. This step adds a beautiful sparkle and slight crunch to the finished cookies.

Arrange on Baking Sheets:

1. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets.
2. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly during baking.

Bake the Cookies:

1. Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on the cookies.
3. You want them to be puffed and have edges that are just set but not browned. The centers should still look slightly soft and underbaked, which helps maintain their chewiness.

Add the Hershey’s Kisses:

1. As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes.
2. While the cookies are still warm, press a Hershey’s Kiss gently into the center of each cookie.
3. The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the base of the Kiss, which helps it stick to the cookie once cooled.

Cool Completely:

1. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for an additional 5 minutes to firm up.
2. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. The Hershey’s Kisses will take a while to set, so avoid stacking the cookies until the chocolate is fully firm.

Optional Step – Make Them Extra Festive:

1. If you want to give these cookies a more holiday-themed look, consider drizzling them with melted white or dark chocolate after they’ve cooled.
2. You can also sprinkle additional sanding sugar over the drizzle before it sets for a sparkling finish.

Congratulations! You’ve just made a batch of gorgeous, delicious Hershey’s Kiss Cookies. But we’re not done yet. Let’s talk about the best ways to serve them and how to make them even more special.

How to Serve

These delightful cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are some fun ideas:

Serve Them Fresh:

• Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are at their best when they’re slightly warm, with the chocolate still soft and melty in the center. Serve them fresh from the cooling rack for the ultimate experience.

Pair with Beverages:

• Serve with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a creamy vanilla latte for a cozy treat.
• If you’re hosting a party, consider setting up a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and flavored syrups to complement the cookies.

Add to Dessert Platters:

• These cookies make a fantastic addition to any dessert platter. Pair them with brownies, sugar cookies, and fruit bars for a colorful, inviting spread.

Gift Them:

• Wrap a handful of cookies in a clear cellophane bag tied with a festive ribbon.
• Place them in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper for an impressive homemade gift.

Use Them for Ice Cream Sandwiches:

• For an indulgent twist, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two Hershey’s Kiss Cookies. Press gently until the ice cream reaches the edges, then roll the sides in mini chocolate chips.

Crush and Sprinkle:

• Got some broken cookies? Crush them up and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delicious dessert topping.

Decorative Trays:

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter surrounded by colorful candies or edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation.

Whatever serving style you choose, these cookies are guaranteed to be the star of the show. Now, let’s move on to finding the perfect pairings to make your dessert experience even more enjoyable.

Pairing Suggestions

Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right drinks and dishes can take the experience to a whole new level. Here are some pairing suggestions to enhance your cookie-eating pleasure:

Perfect Beverage Pairings:

• Hot Chocolate: A classic choice. The rich, creamy chocolate pairs perfectly with the buttery sweetness of the cookies. For a fun twist, try white hot chocolate or peppermint hot chocolate during the holidays.
• Coffee: A bold, dark roast coffee provides a pleasant contrast to the cookies’ sweetness. You can also go for a creamy latte or flavored coffee like hazelnut or vanilla to enhance the overall experience.
• Tea: Black tea varieties such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast complement the vanilla flavor of the cookies beautifully. Herbal teas like peppermint or chai can also add a warm, spicy note to the sweetness.
• Milk: Of course, a cold glass of milk is the timeless companion for cookies. Whether you prefer whole, almond, oat, or soy milk, the creamy texture enhances the cookie’s flavor and provides a refreshing finish.
• Milkshakes: For an extra-indulgent treat, serve the cookies with a rich vanilla or chocolate milkshake. Dunking allowed!

Dessert Platters and Party Pairings:

• Holiday Cookie Trays: Pair these cookies with sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, and snickerdoodles for a festive holiday assortment.
• Ice Cream Sundaes: Crush a few cookies and sprinkle them over ice cream sundaes for a crunchy, chocolaty topping.
• Fruit Platters: Fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and orange slices complement the rich flavor of the cookies and add a touch of brightness to the overall presentation.
• Brownies and Bars: Include these cookies alongside brownies, blondies, or chocolate chip cookie bars for a decadent dessert spread.
• S’mores-Inspired Desserts: Serve the cookies with roasted marshmallows and graham crackers to create a playful, s’mores-themed treat.

Special Occasion Pairings:

• Birthday Parties: Use colored sanding sugar to match the party’s theme and serve the cookies with ice cream for a fun, kid-friendly dessert.
• Christmas or Valentine’s Day: Opt for red, green, pink, or white sanding sugar to fit the holiday’s theme. Serve with festive drinks like peppermint mocha or hot apple cider.
• Baby Showers or Weddings: Create elegant dessert displays by using pastel-colored sanding sugar or drizzling the cookies with white chocolate.

These cookies are versatile enough to fit any occasion or setting. Now, let’s discuss how to properly store, freeze, and reheat them to keep them fresh and delicious.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made a batch of these delightful Hershey’s Kiss Cookies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:

Storage Instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Line the container with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
• Separate Layers: If stacking the cookies, place parchment or wax paper between the layers to prevent the Hershey’s Kisses from smearing.
• Avoid Heat: Keep the container away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as the Hershey’s Kisses may melt and lose their shape.

Freezing Instructions:

• Freezing Baked Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1 hour).
• Transfer to a Container: Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.
• Label and Date: Don’t forget to label the container with the date! These cookies will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Room Temperature Thawing: For best results, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Microwave Method: If you prefer a slightly warm cookie, microwave each cookie for about 5-7 seconds. This will gently soften the cookie and warm the Hershey’s Kiss without melting it completely.
• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm the cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This method works well if you’re reheating multiple cookies at once.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• If you want to prepare these cookies ahead of time, consider freezing the unbaked dough balls instead of fully baked cookies. Simply shape the dough balls, coat them in sanding sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

Now that you know how to store and freeze your cookies like a pro, let’s make sure you avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when baking these treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are some common pitfalls to be aware of. Here are the most frequent mistakes bakers make and how to avoid them:

Overmixing the Dough:

• Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, it’s important to mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough, dense cookies. Always use a gentle hand when incorporating the dry ingredients.

Skipping the Cooling Time Before Adding Hershey’s Kisses:

• Pressing the Kisses into cookies that are too hot can cause them to melt excessively and lose their shape. Allow the cookies to cool for about two minutes before adding the Kisses.

Using Cold Butter:

• If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly with the sugar. This will result in dense, less tender cookies. Always make sure your butter is at room temperature before starting.

Not Using Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats:

• Placing cookies directly on a baking sheet can cause them to spread unevenly and stick. Always use parchment paper or silicone baking liners for best results.

Not Measuring Flour Properly:

• Too much flour can make your cookies dry and crumbly. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Rushing the Rolling Process:

• Rolling the dough balls in sanding sugar too quickly can result in uneven coating. Take your time to ensure each dough ball is fully coated before baking.

Underbaking or Overbaking:

• Keeping a close eye on your cookies while they’re in the oven is key. You want the edges to be set but not browned. Overbaking will result in hard, dry cookies, while underbaking may make them too soft to hold their shape.

Making these cookies shouldn’t be stressful. Now that you’re aware of the potential pitfalls, let’s move on to some expert tips that will help you achieve the perfect Hershey’s Kiss Cookies every time.

Pro Tips

To make sure your Hershey’s Kiss Cookies turn out perfectly every single time, here are some pro tips that will elevate your baking game:

Use High-Quality Ingredients:

• When it comes to simple recipes like this, the quality of your ingredients makes a big difference. Use real unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract to enhance the rich, buttery flavor of the cookies.

Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended):

• While not strictly necessary, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls can help the cookies maintain their shape better during baking. It also intensifies the flavor, making your cookies even more irresistible.

Prevent Chocolate Melting:

• If you find that the Hershey’s Kisses are melting too much when pressed into the warm cookies, try refrigerating the unwrapped Kisses for about 15 minutes before using them. This will help them hold their shape better.

Make a Double Batch:

• Trust me, one batch of these cookies is never enough. If you’re baking for a party or gifting them to friends and family, go ahead and double the recipe. They’ll disappear faster than you think!

Rotate Baking Sheets:

• If you’re baking multiple sheets of cookies at once, rotate them halfway through the baking process to ensure even cooking. This helps avoid overbaking or underbaking.

Add Flavored Hershey’s Kisses:

• For a fun twist, try using different varieties of Hershey’s Kisses like Dark Chocolate, Mint Truffle, or Caramel-filled Kisses. This small change can completely transform the flavor profile of your cookies.

Experiment with Sanding Sugar Colors:

• Customizing the color of the sanding sugar is a great way to match your cookies to specific themes or holidays. Try pastel colors for Easter, red and pink for Valentine’s Day, or orange and black for Halloween.

Store Properly for Maximum Freshness:

• If you’re planning to keep the cookies for several days, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread helps keep the cookies soft and tender.

Test Your Oven Temperature:

• Ovens can vary in temperature, and even a slight difference can affect the outcome of your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature.

Use a Cookie Scoop for Uniformity:

• If you want your cookies to be the same size and bake evenly, use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This also makes the process much quicker and easier.

Now that you’ve got all the best tips for making flawless Hershey’s Kiss Cookies, let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions people have about this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling it into balls and coating with sanding sugar.

Can I Freeze Unbaked Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls. After rolling them in sanding sugar, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

How Do I Prevent My Cookies from Spreading Too Much?
If your cookies are spreading too much during baking, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling them into balls. Also, ensure that your butter is at room temperature and not overly softened or melted.

Why Did My Hershey’s Kisses Melt and Lose Their Shape?
Pressing the Kisses into cookies that are too hot can cause them to melt excessively. Try allowing the cookies to cool for about 2 minutes before adding the Kisses. You can also chill the unwrapped Kisses in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before pressing them into the cookies.

Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help the cookies hold their shape.

What Other Toppings Can I Use Instead of Sanding Sugar?
If you prefer, you can roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for a simpler look. You can also try using crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.

Can I Use Different Flavors of Hershey’s Kisses?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate, caramel, and peppermint Kisses all work beautifully in this recipe. Experiment with your favorites to find the perfect combination.

How Long Will These Cookies Stay Fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Can I Make These Cookies Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate alternatives if you have dietary restrictions. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different.

What If I Don’t Have Sanding Sugar?
If you don’t have sanding sugar, granulated sugar works just fine. It won’t be as sparkly, but it will still add a nice crunch and sweetness to the cookies.

Now that you’ve got all the answers you need, let’s wrap things up and get ready to bake these delicious cookies!

Conclusion & Call to Action

Hershey’s Kiss Cookies are everything you could want in a sweet treat: they’re buttery, soft, delightfully crunchy on the outside, and crowned with a melt-in-your-mouth chocolate Kiss. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a casual family get-together, or simply to satisfy your own cravings, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can customize the sanding sugar colors to match any occasion, swap out the Kisses for different flavors, or even turn them into an extra-indulgent dessert by sandwiching them around ice cream. And the best part? They’re super easy to make, even if you’re a total beginner.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Hershey’s Kiss Cookies. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know how it went. And if you’re feeling extra proud of your creation, snap a photo and share it on social media. I love seeing your delicious results!

Happy baking!

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