Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies: A Delightful, Chewy Treat for Every Occasion
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are a delicious twist on a classic holiday treat, combining the rich taste of cocoa with the nostalgic flavor of Hershey’s Kisses. These soft, chewy cookies are ideal for holiday baking, Valentine’s Day, or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings. This recipe offers a guide to achieving the perfect texture, flavor variations, and storage tips.
For another festive cookie option, explore our recipe for Peanut Butter Blossoms—an equally popular choice that pairs peanut butter with chocolate.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are easy to make and only require simple ingredients, making them a staple in any baker’s collection. Here’s why they’re so beloved:
- Rich, Chocolatey Flavor: Cocoa and chocolate kisses make these cookies satisfyingly sweet.
- Perfect for Gifting: Packaged in festive bags, they’re a fantastic homemade gift.
- Endless Variations: Switch up the kisses or add flavors to customize these cookies.
For a twist on traditional flavors, try our Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Bites to discover another chocolate-inspired treat.
Ingredients for Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
The ingredients for Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are pantry staples with a touch of chocolate:
- Butter – Softened for easy creaming.
- Sugar and Brown Sugar – For sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Eggs – Adds moisture and structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure.
- Cocoa Powder – Provides rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking Powder and Salt – Essential for lift and balance.
- Hershey’s Kisses – The “kiss” on top of each cookie.
For an additional touch, consider trying Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake for a rich caramel flavor to pair with these chocolatey delights.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Follow these steps to create perfectly soft and chewy Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies:
1. Cream Butter and Sugar
- Using an electric mixer, cream the butter with sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for a soft cookie texture.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine and Chill the Dough
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
5. Shape and Roll
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and roll each in granulated sugar for a slight crunch.
6. Bake and Top with Kisses
- Bake for 8–10 minutes. Immediately after baking, press a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.
By following these steps, you’ll create Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies with a perfect balance of chocolate and sweetness. For more holiday baking ideas, check out our Dunkaroo Dip for a fun, retro-inspired treat.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps ingredients combine smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the dough prevents spreading and maintains a chewy texture.
- Place the Kisses Immediately: Pressing a Hershey’s Kiss on each cookie right after baking lets the chocolate adhere without melting.
Flavor Variations for Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are highly customizable. Here are a few fun ways to change up the flavors:
- Peppermint Chocolate Kiss Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough and top with peppermint Hershey’s Kisses for a holiday twist.
- Spiced Chocolate Kiss Cookies: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon and a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy chocolate flavor.
- White Chocolate and Caramel Kisses: Replace regular Hershey’s Kisses with white chocolate or caramel-flavored Kisses for a unique twist.
For a crowd-pleasing twist on cookies, try our Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes for a fun, fruity option.
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are versatile and perfect for various occasions. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve with Hot Cocoa: A warm beverage enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Festive Gift Bags: Package cookies in decorative bags for a thoughtful gift.
- Cookie Exchange Parties: These cookies are ideal for cookie swaps due to their easy-to-eat, festive look.
To pair with your cookies, try our recipe for Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns for a warm, comforting side dish.
Storage and Freezing Tips for Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Proper storage is key to maintaining the texture and flavor of Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies:
- Storage: Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Layer cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Freezing Dough: Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for quick baking later.
For additional storage tips, see our guide on Tips for Freezing Cookie Dough to ensure freshness.
FAQs About Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Here are answers to common questions about Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies:
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
- Why do my cookies spread too much?
- This is often due to using unchilled dough. Ensure your dough is cold before baking.
- How can I keep the Hershey’s Kiss from melting?
- Add the Hershey’s Kiss immediately after baking to allow it to stick without melting completely.
- Can I use other types of sugar?
- Yes, rolling in powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar creates a unique texture and sweetness.
- What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
- Use an airtight container, and consider freezing if keeping them for more than a few days.
For answers to similar baking questions, see our post on Crafting the Ultimate Thick Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per cookie:
- Calories: ~120
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
For a healthier twist, consider using dark chocolate Hershey’s Kisses, which provide antioxidants and lower sugar. Learn more about the Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate.
Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate in Desserts
Using dark chocolate Hershey’s Kisses not only enhances the flavor of these cookies but also offers nutritional benefits:
- Antioxidants: Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants that support heart health.
- Mood-Boosting Properties: Dark chocolate can improve mood by releasing endorphins.
- Lower Sugar Content: Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate, making it a healthier option.
For more nutritious recipes, try our Healthy Avocado Egg Salad Roll-Ups—a great savory balance to these sweet cookies.
Conclusion: Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies for Every Occasion
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies are a simple, delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their rich, chocolatey flavor, soft texture, and festive Hershey’s Kiss topping make them a favorite for cookie exchanges, holiday baking, or just because. Try different variations, enjoy them fresh from the oven, and don’t forget to share these delicious cookies with friends and family!
If you’re looking for more classic cookie recipes, consider trying our Ultimate Guide to Perfect French Bread Pizza for an easy, savory snack that’s just as satisfying.
