Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Kiss Cookies are festive, buttery sugar cookies topped with a striped peppermint Hershey’s Kiss. With their soft centers, slightly crisp edges, and cool minty topping, they’re a holiday favorite that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for Christmas cookie platters, these cookies offer a beautiful swirl of flavor and fun.

ingredients

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

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggvanilla extractpeppermint extractbaking powderbaking sodasaltred food coloringcrushed peppermint candiesHershey’s Peppermint Kisses (unwrapped)

directions

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

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

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.

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

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Divide the dough in half. Tint one half with red food coloring and knead lightly to distribute color.

Take small pieces of red and plain dough, twist them together, and roll into balls for a swirled look.

Roll each dough ball in crushed peppermint candies.

Place on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are just set.

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

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

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 8-10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Swap the peppermint extract for almond extract for a unique twist.

Use green food coloring for a different holiday vibe.

Skip the crushed peppermint coating for a smoother texture.

Roll dough in sanding sugar for sparkle without crunch.

storage/reheating

Store Peppermint Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Allow frozen cookies to come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate Kisses instead?

Yes, but the peppermint variety adds the iconic holiday flavor.

Why did my Kisses melt?

Make sure to press the Kiss in immediately after baking but avoid moving the cookie until it cools.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze the shaped dough balls (without candy on top) and bake from frozen.

Do these cookies stay soft?

Yes, they stay soft for several days if stored properly.

Can I make them without food coloring?

Absolutely, though the swirl effect will be less festive.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Only if made with a certified gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for best flavor, but margarine works as a substitute.

How do I crush the peppermint candies?

Use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin or mallet to gently crush them.

Can kids help make these?

Yes! Kids will enjoy rolling the dough and adding the Kisses.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is not required but helps the cookies hold their shape better.

Conclusion

Peppermint Kiss Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery sweetness and minty charm. Whether for a cookie exchange or a cozy night in, their festive swirl and burst of peppermint make them a standout treat for the holidays. Give them a try and watch them disappear from the cookie tray!