Description
These Easy Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat featuring a soft, chewy peanut butter cookie base topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and brown sugar, these cookies are simple to make and ideal for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a nostalgic, chocolatey peanut butter dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 8 tablespoons butter, softened (one stick)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Coating
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Topping
- 34 Hershey kisses (milk, dark chocolate, or other variety)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Mix butter and peanut butter: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together on medium speed until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Add brown sugar: Incorporate the light brown sugar into the peanut butter mixture and continue to mix until the batter becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes, enhancing the cookie’s texture.
- Add egg and vanilla: Crack in the large egg and pour in the pure vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and baking soda until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Form cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball, then coat them in granulated sugar for a slight crunch and sweetness on the exterior. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 11 minutes or until the edges are just set and have turned a golden brown, ensuring a chewy interior.
- Add Hershey’s Kisses: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press one Hershey kiss into the center of each cookie so it sticks as the cookie cools.
- Cool and store: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to an airtight container for storage, preserving their freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth dough and even texture.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies tender.
- Chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help control spreading if desired.
- You can substitute the Hershey Kisses with your favorite mini chocolate candies or peanut butter cups.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
