These Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are just the treat you need during the holidays. They’re soft and sweet with a delightful crunch from the candy cane bits. Plus, they come together quickly, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Everyone loves that little burst of flavor from the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate kisses!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This candy cane cookie recipe is a holiday favorite. They are simple to make and require ingredients you likely already have at home. The blend of buttery cookie and minty candy cane will quickly win hearts. They’re great for baking with kids too, creating a festive memory while enjoying the process together.

How to Make Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You start by creaming together your butter and sugar, then mix in your other ingredients. The best part? No need for fancy kitchen gadgets! Just a bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet will do the job perfectly.

What You Need

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup crushed candy canes
Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses

Step-by-Step

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Beat in the vanilla and almond extracts.
Gradually blend in the flour and salt.
Roll tablespoonfuls of dough into balls, then roll in crushed candy canes.
Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Upon removing from the oven, immediately press a Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own or served alongside a warm cup of cocoa. They make great gifts, too! Package them in cute boxes or tins for friends and family. They’re great at holiday parties, and kids love to find them on cookie trays.

How to Store Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

To keep your leftovers fresh, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. If you want to freeze them, just place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be good as new!

Recipe Tips

Measure your flour accurately to avoid dry cookies.
To crush candy canes, place them in a zip-top bag and roll with a rolling pin.
Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden.
You can swap the almond extract for more vanilla if preferred.
Don’t skip pressing the kisses before they cool for a melty center.

Variations & Swaps

Use chocolate chips instead of candy canes for a chocolate version.
Add crushed nuts with the candy canes for extra crunch.
Make them gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free mix.
Try different flavored kisses, like peanut butter for a twist!
For a festive touch, drench the cookies in white chocolate after baking.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Just roll and bake them the next day. This makes it super easy for busy holiday schedules.

Can I freeze the cookies once baked?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container. They can stay in the freezer for up to two months. Just thaw before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat these cookies?

To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will make them soft and delicious again. You can also microwave them for about 10 seconds, but be careful not to overheat!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can use margarine in place of butter, and if you don’t have almond extract, just use more vanilla. You can also replace the candy canes with crushed peppermint candies or different flavored kisses for a unique twist.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making these cookies?

One common mistake is overmixing the dough. Mix just until combined for a tender cookie. Also, don’t forget to preheat your oven. Baking in an unheated oven alters the baking time and texture, so make sure that’s set before you start!