“Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house? These Classic Peanut Butter Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies are a heartfelt invitation to indulge in a delightful treat that brings back memories of joyful holiday gatherings and cozy family moments. With just 10 minutes of prep time and the convenience of one bowl, these cookies are perfect for busy bakers craving a homemade touch without the fuss. The beautiful combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate kisses creates a treat that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a little piece of heaven for your taste buds. Ready to embark on an easy baking adventure that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your love for homemade goodness? Let’s dive in!”
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these cookies are the perfect solution for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
One Bowl Wonder: No fuss, no mess! You’ll only need one bowl to create these delightful treats, making cleanup a breeze.
Decadent Flavors: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate kisses creates a richness that is simply irresistible.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the kisses for seasonal varieties or even try different nut butters to suit your taste.
Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience. Want more cookie inspiration? Check out my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Maraschino Cherry Cookies!
Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake a batch of love!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – Adds structure and texture; for gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free baking flour.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness; consider using half the amount of fine salt.
- Baking soda – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise; no substitutions are recommended.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and provides a crispy exterior; no substitutions necessary.
- Light brown sugar – Introduces moisture and a touch of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar is a great substitute if desired.
- Unsalted butter – Contributes richness and moisture; opt for vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Peanut butter – Gives these Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies their signature flavor and chewy texture; almond or sunflower seed butter are good alternatives for allergies.
- Whole milk – Adds moisture and improves dough consistency; use plant-based milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Egg – Acts as a binder for structure; a flax egg is a fantastic substitute for an egg-free version.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor; substitutes are not recommended.
- Hershey’s Kisses – The iconic topping, delivering a delightful chocolate burst; feel free to substitute with other chocolate candies or mini chocolate chips.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda until well combined. This dry mixture lays the foundation for your Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies, ensuring they hold their shape while baking. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of peanut butter using an electric mixer, until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of light brown sugar, mixing until creamy. This step introduces a luscious base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add in 1 egg, 3 tablespoons of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is combined, about 1-2 minutes. The wet ingredients will add moisture and richness to your Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies, giving them that delightful chew.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until no flour streaks remain, creating a cohesive dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; if it feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This chilling step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your baking sheets. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready for your freshly made dough balls. This preheating will ensure your Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies bake evenly and to perfection.
Step 6: Form Cookie Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat, creating a beautiful sugary exterior. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges and slightly puffed in the center. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking. This step will yield soft and chewy Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies that are hard to resist!
Step 8: Add Hershey’s Kisses
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, take a chilled Hershey’s Kiss and press it gently into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step creates that delicious chocolatey topping that makes these cookies so special.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies cool completely on the wire rack, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, serve them fresh or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Relish every indulgent bite as the creamy peanut butter and chocolate meld together!
What to Serve with Classic Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies
Imagine the joy of sharing these delightful cookies around a cozy table, perfectly complemented by comforting sides and drinks.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that balances the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavor.
- Cold Glass of Milk: There’s nothing quite like dipping your thumbprint cookies into milk, enhancing their soft texture and flavor with a refreshing contrast.
- Decadent Hot Chocolate: Serve with a mug of rich hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience that’s sure to warm hearts during chilly evenings.
- Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits provides a refreshing and vibrant counterpoint to the sweet and nutty cookies.
- Gourmet Coffee: Pair with a cup of your favorite brewed coffee to elevate your snack time; the bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a touch of elegance, serve alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries, echoing the chocolate theme while introducing a fresh, juicy element.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over cookies adds an extra layer of indulgence, making each bite even more luxurious.
- Sweet Tea: A glass of sweet iced tea perfectly complements the richness of the cookies and offers a refreshing twist.
- Peanut Butter Cup Brownies: For dessert enthusiasts, pair with gooey peanut butter cup brownies for an explosion of dessert flavors that’ll please any sweet tooth.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Peanut Butter Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy baking days! You can chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you prefer, the unbaked cookie dough balls can be rolled in sugar and frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies just as delicious as if made the same day!
How to Store and Freeze Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Freezer: Unbaked cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Scoop and roll into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This will bring back the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of the chocolate kiss.
Chilling Tips: For best results, keep any surplus Hershey’s kisses in the fridge so they are ready to press into the cookies whenever you bake your next batch!
Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious twists on the classic recipe!
-
Nutty Twist: Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a unique nutty flavor that excites the taste buds. Both options add a delightful creaminess while keeping the cookies equally scrumptious.
-
Sprinkle Cheer: Roll your cookie dough balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a fun and festive look, making them ideal for parties or special occasions. The added crunch and vibrant colors will bring a smile to everyone’s face!
-
Choco-Explosion: Swap out Hershey’s Kisses for other chocolate candies like Reese’s Pieces or caramel-filled chocolates for a rhapsody of flavors. Each cookie will be a delightful surprise, bursting with different flavors and textures.
-
Flavor Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients to enhance the richness of the cookies with warm spice notes. This subtle hint can transform them into a cozy treat perfect for chilly evenings.
-
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter and swap whole milk with almond or oat milk to create a delicious dairy-free version of these beloved cookies. You won’t miss a beat with your favorite flavors!
-
Bigger Bites: For those who love a hearty cookie, increase the dough ball size to make larger cookies. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly! These thick cookies are perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself.
-
Chocolate Chip Combo: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the dough for extra chocolatey goodness. These delightful little morsels melted inside create a decadent surprise in every bite that chocolate lovers will adore!
To keep the inspiration flowing, don’t forget to explore more cookie wonders like my rich Pan Banging Cookies or the delightful Maple Pecan Cookies. Happy baking!
Helpful Tricks for Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour enhances texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Use Cold Kisses: Ensure your Hershey’s kisses are chilled before baking. This prevents them from melting too quickly into the cookies when pressed.
Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements, especially for flour. This guarantees the perfect balance of texture in your Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; pulling them out just before they appear done will yield soft, chewy results.
Experiment with Kisses: Feel free to switch up the types of Hershey’s kisses you use to tailor the flavor to your liking or seasonal themes.
Store Properly: Store your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewy texture, enjoying them for days to come!
Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using creamy, natural peanut butter for a smooth texture and rich flavor. Avoid using “no-stir” varieties that contain added oils, as they can affect the cookie’s consistency. If you have nut allergies, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can also serve as great alternatives.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Just place your baked Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months for a sweet treat later on!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your unbaked cookie dough, scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, roll in sugar, and bake as usual!
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies spread excessively, it could be because the dough was too warm. Always chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking. Additionally, ensure that your butter isn’t too soft when creaming it with the sugars; it should be at room temperature but still slightly firm.
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
Great question! Since these cookies contain peanut butter and eggs, they are not suitable for pets, particularly dogs, and they can cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to peanuts. If you want to serve these to guests with allergies, consider using alternative ingredients like sunflower seed butter and a flax egg for a tasty, allergen-friendly version.
Can I use different types of chocolate for the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by swapping out Hershey’s Kisses with other chocolate candies, such as caramel-filled chocolates or even mini chocolate chips. This little twist can add exciting flavors and surprise your taste buds, making every batch of Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies uniquely delicious!
Divine Thumbprint Hershey Kiss Cookies in Just 10 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups flour, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon baking soda until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup unsalted butter and ½ cup peanut butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup light brown sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Add 1 egg, 3 tablespoons whole milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until combined.
- Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until no flour streaks remain. Chill if too soft.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls and roll in granulated sugar. Place on the baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Don't over-bake.
- Press a chilled Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie once out of the oven. Cool on baking sheets.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before serving or storing.
Leave a Reply