Name: Peppermint Kiss Cookies That Will Make Your Holidays Sweeter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps the cookies rise.); pinch Salt (Adjust if using salted butter.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness; margarine can work as a substitute.); ¾ cup Sugar (Keeps some for rolling; consider coconut sugar for health.); 1 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be used for vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract is a nice alternative.); coarse Green Sugar (Colored sprinkles can replace it.); coarse Red Sugar (Use another color alternative.); 1 cup Peppermint Kisses (Swap with chocolate kisses for variety.)

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As I pulled the first batch of Peppermint Kiss Cookies from the oven, the inviting aroma of mint and sweetness enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. These festive treats elevate the classic sugar cookie, wrapping a creamy peppermint surprise in a soft and chewy embrace. What I adore most about this recipe is its quick prep time—a lifesaver during the bustling holiday season—and its crowd-pleasing charm, making it the perfect addition to your Christmas cookie tray. Dusted with vibrant red and green sugars, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to savor. Are you ready to bring some holiday magic into your home with these deliciously festive cookies?

Why Are Peppermint Kiss Cookies Special?

Unforgettable Festive Flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a holiday explosion for your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in no time, perfect for busy bakers during the season.

Visually Stunning: The vibrant red and green sugar adds a cheerful touch to your cookie tray, making them visually appealing for any gathering.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap out the peppermint kisses; chocolate kisses or even crushed candy canes work beautifully!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings, these cookies are guaranteed to impress friends and family.

Check out our Cosmic Brownie Cookies for another sweet treat that everyone will love!

Peppermint Kiss Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to create magic with these irresistible peppermint kiss cookies!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise for that fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances the flavor; adjust if you’re using salted butter.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; margarine can work as a substitute.
Sugar – Sweetens the dough and keeps some for rolling; consider coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Eggs – Binds the dough and assists in rising; flax eggs can be used for a vegan twist.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and depth; almond extract is a nice alternative.

For the Garnish

Coarse Green Sugar – Adds festive color; colored sprinkles can replace it if desired.
Coarse Red Sugar – Provides visual appeal, and you can use another color alternative.
Peppermint Kisses – The key to that peppermint kiss cookie magic; swap with chocolate kisses for variety!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your peppermint kiss cookie adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even baking temperature, resulting in perfectly chewy cookies. While the oven is heating, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This step not only distributes the baking powder evenly but also aerates the mixture, helping to create the ideal soft texture. Set this bowl aside while you move on to creaming the butter.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until it turns light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for your peppermint kiss cookies. The fluffy texture is key to ensuring your cookies rise nicely.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugar are beautifully blended, add in 1 large egg followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until fully combined. The addition of the egg binds the dough while the vanilla adds a lovely aroma, creating that comforting holiday essence as you prepare this special batch.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your flour mixture to the creamy butter mixture, stirring slowly until just combined. You’re aiming for a soft dough here, so be careful not to overmix. If you notice a bit of flour clinging to the sides, use a spatula to gently fold it in. Your peppermint kiss cookies dough is now ready!

Step 6: Divide and Color the Dough
Carefully divide the dough in half and place one half in a separate bowl. Add green coarse sugar to one half and red coarse sugar to the other, mixing gently until the colors are well incorporated. This festive touch not only signals the peppermint surprise inside but also makes your cookies visually striking!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the colored dough into 1-inch balls, ensuring each one is uniform for even baking. Roll each ball in its corresponding colored sugar until fully coated. Place them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 8: Flatten and Bake
Before placing your cookie sheets in the oven, slightly flatten each dough ball with the palm of your hand. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops look soft but not shiny. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as you want that perfect balance of chewy and lightly crisp edges.

Step 9: Add the Peppermint Kisses
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and immediately press a peppermint kiss into the center of each cookie, gently but firmly. This step creates that delectable melting center everyone will adore. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to handle and roll your peppermint kiss cookies.
Uniform Size: Roll each dough ball into a uniform size to ensure even baking. This helps achieve that perfect chewy texture throughout.
Gentle Flattening: Lightly flatten each cookie ball before baking; don’t press too hard, as this can affect the final texture.
Timing is Key: Keep a close eye on the baking time; slightly underbaking (8-10 minutes) encourages a soft, chewy center for your peppermint kiss cookies.
Press Gently: When adding the peppermint kisses, do so gently to avoid cracking the cookies, keeping the delightful surprise intact!
Storing Tips: For maximum freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, keeping them chewy and delicious for up to two weeks.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Kiss Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, especially during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by following these steps: after mixing the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness and prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll the dough into balls, coat them in colored sugar, and press in the peppermint kisses—a warm, gooey treat awaits! This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies with minimal effort on your busy days, perfect for cookie exchanges or unexpected guests. Enjoy a taste of holiday magic right when you need it!

Peppermint Kiss Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these delightful cookies your own by trying out some fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a deliciously creamy flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to enjoy these cookies without the gluten.
Add Some Crunch: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies or candy canes into the dough for an added texture and a festive crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the peppermint kisses for chocolate kisses, turning these into a chocolaty treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Minty Freshness: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for an extra burst of festive mint flavor.
Swirled Dough: Combine both colored doughs by creating a marbled effect. Roll out both halves together for unique and eye-catching swirls on your cookies.
Spicy Kick: For a twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavors, making each bite even more delightful.

Whether you’re looking for a festive cookie tray or a cozy night in with a warm drink, these variations ensure everyone can enjoy a piece of holiday magic. And while you’re at it, try pairing them with our Cosmic Brownie Cookies for the ultimate sweet spread!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, keeping them soft and chewy for your holiday gatherings.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the peppermint kiss cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Reheating: If desired, warm cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften them slightly; just be careful not to overdo it!

What to Serve with Peppermint Kiss Cookies

The festive spirit of these delightful treats can be further enhanced by pairing them with complementary flavors and textures.

Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy beverage that pairs perfectly with the minty sweetness of the cookies and warms the heart on a chilly day.
Peppermint Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of peppermint ice cream for a deliciously cool and minty dessert experience, perfect for a fun holiday twist.
Gingerbread Men: The spicy flavor of gingerbread cookies creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the peppermint, making your cookie platter more intriguing.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of warm chocolate ganache adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the cookie’s chocolate kiss center with a rich flavor.
Fruit Salad with Berries: A light, refreshing fruit salad featuring strawberries and blueberries introduces a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte complement the cookies’ flavor, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for holiday gatherings.
Eggnog: Creamy, spiced eggnog is a classic holiday drink that beautifully enhances the festive vibe of your peppermint kiss cookies.
Christmas Punch: A fruity, sparkling punch or mocktail makes for a festive drink option that pairs well with sweet treats, elevating any holiday celebration.

Peppermint Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Peppermint Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! For your Peppermint Kiss Cookies, using fresh ingredients makes all the difference. When selecting butter, ensure it is unsalted and at room temperature for easy creaming. Eggs should be large and fresh; older eggs may affect the binding quality. While the sugar can be any granulated variety, for a touch of health, consider organic options!

What is the best way to store Peppermint Kiss Cookies?
Store your Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to two weeks! If you’re keeping them for longer, layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. It’s a smart little trick that can make a huge difference when you’re ready to indulge.

Can I freeze Peppermint Kiss Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Peppermint Kiss Cookies, start by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they’re fully frozen (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature for about an hour.

What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky to the touch, don’t worry! Just pop it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This cooling step firms the dough, making it so much easier to handle. You can also lightly dust your hands with flour or use cooking spray to help roll the dough balls without a hitch.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Very! Always check ingredient labels to ensure they’re suitable for your needs. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Remember to ensure all chocolate kisses are free from allergens if you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions!