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My Christmas Cookie Tradition
These peppermint kiss cookies started as a happy accident when I ran out of peanut butter one Christmas. Now they're the most requested treats in my holiday cookie boxes. The festive red and green sugar makes them sparkle like tiny ornaments and that cool peppermint kiss on top creates such a perfect combination of flavors.
What Makes These Special
I love how these cookies combine the nostalgia of classic sugar cookies with a festive peppermint twist. The coarse sugar gives them such a beautiful sparkle and that creamy peppermint kiss in the middle makes everyone smile. They're my go to recipe when I need something that looks impressive but is actually super simple to make.
What You'll Need
- All-purpose flour: Make sure to measure it correctly for the perfect texture.
- Baking powder: This gives them their soft fluffy centers.
- Salt: Just a pinch makes all the flavors pop.
- Unsalted butter: Let it soften naturally on your counter.
- Sugar: Regular granulated works perfectly here.
- Eggs: Bring them to room temperature for better mixing.
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes such a difference.
- Coarse sugars: The bigger crystals really catch the light.
- Peppermint Kisses: Stock up during holiday season.
Let's Make Some Magic
- Mix Your Dough
- Start with your dry ingredients then cream that butter and sugar until fluffy. The eggs and vanilla go in next followed by the flour mixture.
- Add Some Sparkle
- Split your dough and mix red sugar in one half green in the other. The colors look so festive together.
- Shape and Roll
- Roll into little balls coat them in matching sugar and make a tiny dent in each one.
- Into the Oven
- Bake until they're just set about 8 minutes at 350°F.
- The Final Touch
- Let them cool slightly then press those peppermint kisses right in the center.
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My Best Tips
If your dough feels sticky pop it in the fridge for a half hour. Don't skimp on the sugar coating that's what gives them their magical sparkle. Wait a few minutes before adding the kisses or they'll melt too much. I learned that one the hard way.
Keep Them Fresh
These cookies stay perfect in an airtight container for up to two weeks. I love making extra dough balls to freeze they're perfect for last minute guests. Just add a couple minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
Mix It Up
Can't find peppermint kisses? Regular chocolate ones work beautifully too. Sometimes I use white chocolate or even drizzle some melted chocolate on top. My kids love when I mix both colors of sugar on each cookie it makes them extra festive.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the dough up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
- → Why do my peppermint kisses melt?
- Peppermint kisses are more sensitive to heat than regular chocolate kisses. Make sure to wait 2-3 minutes after baking before adding them, and don't move the cookies until completely cool.
- → Can I use different colored sugars?
- Yes, you can use any colors of coarse sugar you like. Just divide the dough into portions based on how many colors you want to use.
- → How should I store these cookies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer with wax paper to prevent sticking and protect the kiss tops.
- → Can these cookies be frozen?
- You can freeze the baked cookies without the kisses for up to 3 months. Thaw completely and add kisses before serving for best results.