Desserts

Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Name: Gingerbread Kiss Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1/4 cup molasses; Hershey’s Kisses or similar chocolate candies

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Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are an irresistible holiday treat that perfectly blend the warm spices of gingerbread with the sweetness of chocolate kisses. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a chocolate candy that melts in your mouth. Whip up a batch and fill your home with the delicious aroma of gingerbread. You’ll find these cookies are not only delightful to eat but also make a charming gift during the festive season!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 120
Protein: 1.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 16 grams
Fat: 6 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 50 mg

Why Make This Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

These Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are perfect for the holiday season, adding a festive touch to your dessert table. They’re incredibly simple to make and offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The warm spices bring comfort, while the chocolate kiss adds a luxurious touch, making these cookies suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday party, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them with a cup of cocoa, these cookies are sure to impress!

How to Make Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
Hershey’s Kisses or similar chocolate candies

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Stir until well mixed. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and molasses to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together, being careful not to over-mix. The dough should be soft but not too sticky.

Step 4: Forming and Baking

Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and then roll them in granulated sugar for a sweet finish. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 5: Finishing

As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss gently into the center of each cookie. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Arrange them on a festive platter for holiday gatherings, or package them in a decorative box to give as gifts. They’re just the right sweet treat to brighten anyone’s day!

How to Store Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Store your Gingerbread Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This helps avoid dense cookies.
If your dough feels too soft, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling.
Experiment with different types of chocolate candies or even flavored chocolates for a unique twist!

Delicious Variations

Swap out the molasses for honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough for a crunchy texture.
For a festive twist, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the cookies right after you press in the chocolate kiss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What can I replace molasses with? If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey, maple syrup, or even agave syrup as a substitute.
How can I make these cookies softer? If you prefer softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly, keeping a close eye on them.
Can I add frosting to these cookies? Absolutely! A light cream cheese frosting or even a simple glaze will elevate the flavors and make them visually appealing.
How do I know when the cookies are done? The edges should be firm, while the centers will look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With their chewy texture and wonderful blend of spices, topped with Hershey’s Kisses, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. They are quick and easy to make, so why not try your hand at baking a batch? Your family and friends will love them, and they may even become a new holiday tradition in your home! Enjoy every bite!