Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Chocolate Kiss Cookies are a classic and delightful treat that blends the rich taste of chocolate with a subtle hint of espresso, topped with a melt-in-your-mouth Hershey’s Kiss. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a sweet indulgence, these cookies bring joy to both bakers and eaters alike. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create these delicious cookies in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make approximately four dozen of these delectable Chocolate Kiss Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1 tsp instant espresso powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• ¼ cup milk or a non-dairy milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup holiday nonpareil sprinkles
• 48 Hershey’s Kiss candies

Instructions

Creating these cookies is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and creamy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well to ensure everything is combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly firm.
6. Form Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and then coat each ball in holiday nonpareil sprinkles for a festive touch.
7. Bake: Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 minutes.
8. Add Hershey’s Kiss: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Each Chocolate Kiss Cookie is approximately 90 calories, making them a delightful treat that’s easy to fit into your day. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per cookie:

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 1g

How to Serve

Chocolate Kiss Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them an ideal treat for a variety of occasions. Their delightful combination of rich chocolate and a sweet, melty center makes them a favorite for both children and adults alike. Here are some creative and enjoyable ways to serve these delectable cookies:

Holiday Platters

One of the most festive ways to present Chocolate Kiss Cookies is by arranging them on a holiday platter. This method allows for a visually appealing display that captures the spirit of the season. Here are some tips to enhance your holiday platter:

• Color Coordination: Choose a platter that complements the colors of the cookies. For example, a red or green platter works beautifully for Christmas, while a gold or silver tray adds a touch of elegance for New Year’s celebrations.
• Mix and Match: Combine Chocolate Kiss Cookies with other holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and festive-shaped sugar cookies. This variety not only enhances visual appeal but also provides guests with different flavor options.
• Garnish: Consider adding seasonal decorations like sprigs of holly, cinnamon sticks, or even edible glitter to your platter. These small touches can elevate the presentation and create a more festive atmosphere.
• Serving Size: Offer cookies in bite-sized portions or as larger pieces, depending on your gathering. You can also place small paper liners beneath each cookie for a neat and tidy presentation.

Coffee Pairing

Chocolate Kiss Cookies pair exceptionally well with warm beverages, making them a perfect companion for your afternoon coffee or hot cocoa. Here’s how to create the ultimate drink pairing experience:

• Brewed Coffee: Choose a medium roast coffee with chocolate undertones to complement the cookie’s flavors. A dash of cream or flavored syrup can enhance the richness, making each bite and sip harmonious.
• Hot Cocoa: For a cozy winter treat, serve the cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa. Consider adding marshmallows or whipped cream to the drink for an extra indulgent experience.
• Iced Variations: In warmer months, pair your cookies with iced coffee or chocolate milk. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top can add an appealing touch.
• Presentation: Serve the cookies on a small, decorative plate next to the beverage, or stack them in a charming mug. This not only looks inviting but also encourages guests to indulge in both the cookie and the drink.

Gift Boxes

Chocolate Kiss Cookies make for a delightful and thoughtful homemade gift, perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays. Here are some ideas on how to package and present them beautifully:

• Decorative Boxes: Invest in decorative gift boxes or tins that reflect the occasion. For instance, use boxes adorned with holiday motifs for Christmas or elegant designs for weddings and anniversaries.
• Personal Touch: Include a handwritten note or card with a heartfelt message. You can also add a short description of the cookies or a fun fact about the recipe to make the gift even more personal.
• Themed Packaging: For a holiday gift, consider wrapping the cookies in cellophane with themed ribbons or bows. For a rustic look, use twine or burlap to tie the package closed.
• Layering: When packing the cookies, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This not only keeps the cookies intact but also adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
• Group Gifts: Create a selection of cookies in various flavors and sizes, allowing the recipient to enjoy a variety. Include Chocolate Kiss Cookies as part of a larger gift basket filled with other homemade goodies, such as brownies, fudge, or granola.

In summary, serving Chocolate Kiss Cookies can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Whether you choose to present them at a festive gathering, enjoy them with a cozy drink, or gift them to loved ones, these cookies offer a delightful experience that will surely bring smiles to everyone who indulges.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Chocolate Kiss Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Butter Softness

Achieving the right butter softness is crucial for the perfect texture of your cookies. It’s best to use unsalted butter that has been left at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. The butter should feel soft but not overly melted or greasy. You can test its readiness by pressing your finger into it; it should leave a slight indent without sinking. Softened butter allows for better incorporation of air during the creaming process, resulting in a light and fluffy cookie. If you forget to take your butter out in advance, you can cut it into small cubes and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. However, be cautious not to melt it—you’re aiming for a soft but not liquid state.

Uniform Size

Uniformity in cookie size is essential not only for aesthetic appeal but also for even baking. Using a cookie scoop, preferably one that holds about a tablespoon of dough, can help you achieve consistent cookie sizes. If you don’t have a cookie scoop, you can use two tablespoons to measure out the dough. Once scooped, roll the dough into a ball between your palms before placing it on the baking sheet. This technique not only ensures uniform size but also helps create a smooth surface, which can lead to a more appealing final product. Moreover, evenly sized cookies will bake at the same rate, preventing some from becoming overcooked while others remain underdone.

Sprinkle Coating

The sprinkle coating adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to your Chocolate Kiss Cookies. To ensure the sprinkles adhere well, gently press each dough ball into the sprinkles before placing them on the baking sheet. This slight pressure helps the sprinkles cling to the dough better during baking. For an even more exciting texture contrast, consider rolling the dough balls in a mixture of colored sprinkles and sugar, or use themed sprinkles for special occasions. Additionally, pressing the cookies down slightly before baking can create a more even surface for the chocolate kisses that will be added later.

Storage

Proper storage of your Chocolate Kiss Cookies is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor. After the cookies have cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. If you find that you have made a large batch, consider layering the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in the container to prevent them from sticking together. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies can last for several months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply allow them to thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their fresh-baked texture.

By following these tips, you can elevate your Chocolate Kiss Cookies to a new level of deliciousness, ensuring that they are a hit with family and friends every time you bake them!

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder if you prefer a lighter chocolate flavor. The dark cocoa provides a richer taste, which complements the espresso powder nicely.

Can I make these cookies without the espresso powder?

Absolutely! The espresso powder is optional and can be omitted if desired. It enhances the chocolate flavor but is not essential.

How do I prevent the Hershey’s Kiss from melting too much?

Press the Kiss into the cookie immediately after baking, and then allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps the Kiss retain its shape.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, the cookie dough can be frozen. Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Conclusion

Chocolate Kiss Cookies are the perfect blend of simplicity, sweetness, and charm, making them an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers of all ages. With their soft, chewy base and a delightful Hershey’s Kiss nestled at the center, these cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and joy to any occasion. Their classic appeal, combined with how easy they are to prepare, makes them a staple recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

One of the best things about Chocolate Kiss Cookies is their versatility. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit seamlessly into any setting. Their adorable appearance and rich flavor make them a crowd-pleaser, while their simplicity ensures that you can whip up a batch without stress or elaborate preparation. Add a dash of sprinkles for a festive touch, or experiment with flavored kisses to create your own unique twist.

Beyond their deliciousness, Chocolate Kiss Cookies are a wonderful way to connect with loved ones. Baking them together can turn into a fun family activity, where everyone gets to roll the dough or place the iconic chocolate kiss on each cookie. Sharing the finished product, whether freshly baked from the oven or lovingly packaged as a gift, spreads warmth and sweetness, embodying the joy of giving.

These cookies also provide an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. You can use different cookie dough bases, like peanut butter or double chocolate, to mix up the flavors. Or try rolling the dough in sugar, cinnamon, or crushed nuts for an added layer of texture and taste. No matter how you choose to customize them, the result is always a delicious treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

In conclusion, Chocolate Kiss Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of simple pleasures and the joy of baking. Their ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and versatility make them a beloved addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re making them to share at a party, gift to a friend, or enjoy with a warm cup of milk, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and sweet memories. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of happiness. Enjoy every bite!

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