Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Kiss Cookies are festive, buttery cookies with a hint of peppermint flavor, topped with striped peppermint Hershey’s Kisses. With their red and white swirls and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a minty-sweet treat.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsvanilla extractpeppermint extractbaking powderbaking sodasaltred food coloringHershey’s Peppermint Kisses

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.

Add red food coloring until the dough reaches your desired pink-red hue.

Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.

Remove from the oven and immediately press a Peppermint Kiss into the center of each cookie.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 36 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8-10 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a sparkly finish.

Use chocolate kisses instead of peppermint for a different flavor.

Add crushed candy canes to the dough for extra texture and minty punch.

Swirl in a little white food coloring to create a marbled effect.

storage/reheating

Store Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, let them sit at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 5-8 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint?
Yes, you can use almond or vanilla extract for a milder flavor.

Why did my kisses melt?
Press the kisses in right after baking, but don’t touch them until they cool completely to prevent melting.

Can I chill the dough?
Yes, chilling for 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better.

Do I have to use food coloring?
No, but the color adds a festive touch. You can skip it or use natural alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, it’s great for large batches during the holidays.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Peppermint Kiss Cookies bring the holiday spirit to your table with their cheerful color, minty aroma, and sweet kiss topping. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or a cozy night in.

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