Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies: A Sweet Treat for All Seasons
When it comes to cookies, few can rival the charm and taste of Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies. This simple yet delightful dessert combines a rich chocolate base with the iconic Hershey’s Kiss, making it a favorite for holidays, celebrations, or any sweet craving. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to try something new, this recipe is as fun to prepare as it is to eat.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
For a batch of Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies, you’ll need the following:
- 1 batch of no-spread sugar cookies (homemade or one roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to infuse the dough with chocolate flavor
- 1 cup coarse sanding sugar for that signature sparkle
- 26 Hershey’s milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Customizing the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can:
- Switch up the kisses: Experiment with dark chocolate, caramel, or seasonal flavors to add a twist.
- Play with colors: Use colored sanding sugar for festive or themed cookies.
- Adjust sweetness: Granulated sugar works as a substitute if coarse sanding sugar isn’t available.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Mix the sugar cookie dough with unsweetened cocoa powder using a hand or stand mixer. Blend until the cocoa is evenly incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about one hour. This step ensures that the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Step 2: Preheat and Portion
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a cookie scoop to form evenly sized dough balls, rolling them in your hands to smooth them out.
Step 3: Coat with Sugar
Roll each dough ball in a shallow bowl of coarse sanding sugar until fully coated. This step adds a delightful crunch and a sparkling finish to your cookies.
Step 4: Bake
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1½ inches apart. Lightly flatten the tops to help them spread evenly. Bake for 8 to 9 minutes, ensuring the cookies are puffy and the dough no longer looks wet.
Step 5: Add the Kiss
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
How to Serve
- Enjoy these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa.
- Add them to holiday cookie platters alongside other festive treats like gingerbread cookies or candy cane kiss cookies.
Storing Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies
- On the Counter: Store in an airtight container for up to five days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months. To thaw, leave at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Work Quickly: Add the Hershey’s Kiss while the cookies are still warm to ensure it adheres properly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the sugar coating or type of chocolate kiss.
Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try
Chocolate Sugar Kiss Cookies offer the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and a visually appealing presentation. They’re a guaranteed hit for parties, family gatherings, or even as a delightful homemade gift.
With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of cookies that’s bound to impress. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to bake a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to share.