Candy Cane Kiss Cookies – A Festive, Buttery, Peppermint Holiday Treat

If there is one cookie that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season, it’s the irresistible
Candy Cane Kiss Cookies. Soft, buttery, sweet, and infused with just the right touch of
peppermint flavor, these cookies have become a beloved Christmas classic for good reason.
Each warm cookie is gently pressed with a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss, creating that iconic melted-yet-set swirl
that makes them absolutely picture-perfect. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, gifting holiday tins,
or simply enjoying a cozy December afternoon, these cookies deliver pure festive joy in every bite.

Ingredients & What They Do

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Creates a rich, tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cookies become lightly golden.
• 1 large egg – Binds the dough and adds moisture for softness.
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances buttery flavor and adds depth.
• 1½ tsp peppermint extract – Provides the signature holiday peppermint flavor.
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour – Gives structure while keeping the cookies soft.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies rise beautifully.
• ¼ tsp baking soda – Ensures ideal spread and texture.
• ¼ tsp salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• ½ cup finely crushed candy canes – Adds peppermint crunch and festive color.
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling) – Gives the cookies a sparkly, sweet exterior.
• Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses – The iconic finishing touch that melts slightly into each warm cookie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light, creamy, and fluffy.
   This ensures a soft, tender cookie.
2. Add Egg and Extracts:
   Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Blend until smooth and fully combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to eliminate clumps and
   promote even baking.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
   Gradually add dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Stir until a thick dough forms.
5. Fold in Crushed Candy Canes:
   Gently fold crushed candy canes into the dough for festive crunch and peppermint color.
6. Chill the Dough:
   Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. This step prevents spreading and gives the cookies their perfect shape.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Shape and Coat:
   Scoop 1-tablespoon dough balls, roll them smoothly, and coat each one in sugar.
9. Bake:
   Place cookie balls on prepared sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but not brown.
10. Add the Kiss:
    Immediately press a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
    Allow cookies to cool completely so the kisses firm up.

Why These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies Are Loved

• Festive flavor combining peppermint and creamy white chocolate.
• Picture-perfect appearance with the iconic swirled kisses.
• Soft, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to prepare with simple holiday pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for gifting, parties, and cookie exchanges.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Chill the dough — prevents spreading and keeps cookies thick and soft.
• Don’t overbake — cookies should look slightly pale when removed from the oven.
• Unwrap Kisses ahead of time — you must press them into the cookies immediately while warm.
• Keep crushed candy canes fine — large pieces melt too quickly.
• For extra holiday flavor, add a pinch of crushed peppermint on top after placing the kiss.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.
• Pair with peppermint mocha coffee for the ultimate winter treat.
• Add them to a holiday cookie platter with sugar cookies and gingerbread men.
• Use them as festive gifts in Christmas tins or holiday treat boxes.

Conclusion

These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies bring together everything we love about holiday baking—sweet buttery dough,
festive peppermint flavor, and the classic swirl of a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss. Easy to make, beautifully
festive, and guaranteed to impress, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and irresistible flavor.
Bake a batch of these soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies and experience the magic of Christmas in every bite.
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