Candy Cane Kiss Cookies: A Festive Delight to Try!

Name: Candy Cane Kiss Cookies: A Festive Delight to Try!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup crushed candy canes; 24 Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses

Posted on October 20, 2025

Desserts

Introduction to Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the sweet, nostalgic flavors that remind me of cozy family gatherings. That’s where these delightful Candy Cane Kiss Cookies come in! They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of joy that combine rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Perfect for busy moms like us, this recipe is quick and easy, making it a fantastic solution for last-minute holiday treats. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or just to enjoy at home, these cookies will surely impress your loved ones and fill your kitchen with holiday cheer!

Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are a holiday miracle! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy days when time is tight. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a festive treat that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is simply irresistible, and the kids will love helping out in the kitchen. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished holiday tradition!

Ingredients for Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these festive delights. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps create a tender cookie. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the dough and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
Powdered sugar: It gives a lovely sweetness and helps achieve a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Large eggs: They provide moisture and act as a binding agent, ensuring your cookies hold together.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, giving it structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Crushed candy canes: These add a festive crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor, making the cookies truly special.
Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses: The star of the show! These chocolatey treats melt beautifully on top of the cookies.

For those who want an extra kick of peppermint, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Candy Cane Kiss Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of festive treats in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that delightful texture. Aim for a pale, creamy consistency—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the large eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The eggs add moisture and richness, while the vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. An even mix is key to achieving consistent results in your cookies.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and tender. A few flour streaks are okay; they’ll disappear as you fold in the next ingredient.

Step 6: Fold in Crushed Candy Canes

Now, it’s time to fold in the crushed candy canes. This is where the festive touch comes in! The candy canes not only add a delightful crunch but also infuse your cookies with that signature peppermint flavor. It’s like a winter wonderland in every bite!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to space them about two inches apart. They’ll spread a little while baking, so give them room to breathe. Plus, it’s always fun to see how they transform in the oven!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a bit soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool. That’s the perfect sign of a chewy cookie!

Step 9: Add the Candy Cane Kisses

As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, press a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie. This step is crucial! The kisses will melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey topping. It’s the cherry on top of your holiday masterpiece!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows the cookies to set properly. Once they’re completely cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Trust me, they won’t last long!

Tips for Success

Always use softened butter for easy creaming and a better texture.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s vital for even baking.
For a festive twist, try adding a sprinkle of extra crushed candy canes on top before baking.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
Let the cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their freshness.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A standard cookie sheet works well, but a stoneware pan can give you a nice, even bake.
Parchment paper: If you don’t have this, a silicone baking mat is a great alternative.
Mixing bowls: Use any size, but a large bowl is best for creaming ingredients.
Whisk: A fork can work in a pinch for mixing dry ingredients.
Cookie scoop: If you don’t have one, a tablespoon will do just fine!

Variations of Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Chocolate Mint Version: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate cookie base.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Twist: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
White Chocolate Kisses: Instead of Candy Cane Kisses, use white chocolate kisses for a sweeter, creamier cookie.

Serving Suggestions for Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside peppermint tea for a refreshing holiday twist.
Arrange cookies on a festive platter, garnished with extra crushed candy canes for a pop of color.
Wrap cookies in cellophane bags as delightful homemade gifts.

FAQs about Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

As you embark on your baking adventure with these delightful Candy Cane Kiss Cookies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way!

Can I use other types of kisses instead of Candy Cane Kisses?

Absolutely! While Candy Cane Kisses add a festive touch, you can use regular chocolate kisses or even white chocolate kisses for a different flavor profile. The choice is yours!

How should I store my Candy Cane Kiss Cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?

If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider adding a bit more flour next time.

Can I add more crushed candy canes for extra flavor?

Definitely! If you love that peppermint flavor, feel free to add more crushed candy canes to the dough or sprinkle some on top before baking. It’s a festive way to amp up the holiday spirit!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Candy Cane Kiss Cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a joyful experience that brings the holiday spirit into your home. The delightful aroma of chocolate and peppermint fills the air, creating a warm atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather. Each bite is a reminder of cherished memories and festive celebrations. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday party or enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves and let the magic of baking fill your heart with joy this season!