Name: Irresistible Gingerbread Kiss Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice; 3/4 cup salted sweet cream butter, softened; 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup molasses; 2 tablespoons molasses; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 30 Hershey’s Hugs kisses, unwrapped; Sanding sugar, for coating the dough balls

The holiday season is not complete without the delightful aroma of fresh-baked gingerbread cookies wafting through your home. These Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are the perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and festive flavors that make them a favorite among family and friends. Topped with creamy Hershey’s Kisses, they not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also make for an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to impress at any holiday gathering. The simplicity of the recipe allows even novice bakers to create this classic treat with minimal fuss, making it a go-to option when you’re short on time but still want to create something special.

The secret to their appeal lies in their unique blend of spices that transport your taste buds straight to winter wonderland, while the buttery cookie dough melts in your mouth. As you bite into these delightful cookies, the silky smooth chocolate center of the Hershey’s Kiss adds a luscious touch that takes them to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, need a thoughtful gift, or simply want to indulge your own cravings, these Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are a must-try. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored for whenever that cookie craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Kiss Cookies

Seasonal Delight: The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg evoke the essence of holiday cheer.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Makes a Bunch: A yield of 30 cookies means you can share with plenty of friends and family or keep them all to yourself!
Deliciously Festive: Topped with Hershey’s Kisses, they make a stunning addition to any dessert spread.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into baking these irresistible Gingerbread Kiss Cookies, it’s essential to set the stage in your kitchen. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools. You will need mixing bowls, measuring cups, a whisk for combining dry ingredients, and either a stand mixer or a hand mixer to cream the butter and sugar. A cookie scoop will also come in handy when portioning the dough evenly. Don’t forget parchment paper for lining your baking sheets, as this will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they’ve got a nice, even bottom texture.

Once everything is set, it’s time to get your workspace ready. Make sure your counters are clean, and consider pre-measuring the spices and flour into a bowl to streamline the process. A neat and organized workspace will help you focus on the fun part — mixing and baking!

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
3/4 cup salted sweet cream butter, softened
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup molasses
2 tablespoons molasses
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
30 Hershey’s Hugs kisses, unwrapped
Sanding sugar, for coating the dough balls

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Begin by preparing the dry ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and allspice. This step is crucial as it ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough, resulting in a well-balanced flavor in every bite of your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Next, take your softened butter and add it to a stand mixer or mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the butter appears light and fluffy. Then, gradually add the packed light brown sugar and continue mixing for another minute. This creaming method creates a lovely base for your cookie dough, giving the cookies a light and tender texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once your butter and sugar are creamed, it’s time to introduce the wet ingredients. Add in 1/2 cup of molasses, the large egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated, creating a rich, dark mixture that signifies the heart of your gingerbread cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now you’re ready to combine the two mixtures. Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Be cautious not to overwork your dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The goal is a well-blended but soft dough that can hold its shape.

Step 5: Refrigerate the Dough

After mixing, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is an important step that helps the flavors meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) just before you’re ready to scoop your dough. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking. This ensures an easy release of the cookies once they’re done.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each portion into a ball. To give them that sparkling festive touch, coat each ball in sanding sugar before placing them on the lined baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them to be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 9: Add the Kisses

As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes. This will allow them to firm up slightly. While they’re still warm, press an unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. This creates a wonderful melting effect that enhances the flavor and appearance of the cookies.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Finally, transfer your cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed or stored!

Variations

Protein: Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Vegetables: For a unique spin, try adding finely grated zucchini to enhance moisture without altering the flavor significantly.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. A dash of cloves or cardamom can add an extra layer of warmth to these cookies.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and optimal texture.
Do not skip the chilling step; it’s vital for cookie structure.
If you prefer a more intense ginger flavor, increase the ginger and decrease the other spices accordingly.
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of chai or hot cocoa for a delightful treat.
Perfect for gifting, arrange the cookies in festive tins or boxes to share the holiday spirit.

Tips

For an easy clean-up, use a silicone baking mat instead of parchment paper.
If you want chewier cookies, bake them slightly less than recommended, keeping them soft in the center.
Experiment with different types of kisses, like caramel-filled or dark chocolate, for a unique twist.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
Protein: 1.5 grams
Sodium: 150 milligrams

FAQs

Can I freeze Gingerbread Kiss Cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend and maintain the other ingredients as is. Just verify that the blend you use has xanthan gum for proper texture.

What variations can I make with the filling?

You can switch up the Hershey’s Kisses with different flavors, such as almond, caramel, or mint, to add a unique twist to the cookies. Experimenting with different candies can lead to fun and exciting flavor combinations!

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, ensure you don’t over-bake them; even a minute can make a difference. Additionally, let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to the cooling rack.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that brings both joy and warmth during the holiday season. With their blend of spices and rich chocolate centers, they are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and serve them at your gatherings, or simply enjoy them as a cozy night-in snack. Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories, sharing love, and spreading happiness. So, gather your ingredients, get into the holiday spirit, and whip up a batch of these incredible cookies that are bound to bring smiles to everyone!