Each bite is a delightful combination of soft, chewy cookie and a melty Hershey’s Kiss, making them a favorite in our home. Whether you’re celebrating with a romantic dinner or a cozy family gathering, these Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth to your heart.
What is Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies?
Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly embodies the spirit of love and celebration. Originating from the classic American cookie tradition, these cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a signature Hershey’s Kiss, making them a favorite for many. The combination of buttery dough and rich chocolate creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
These cookies are not just a sweet indulgence; they also carry a sense of nostalgia for many home cooks. I remember baking these with my family during the chilly February evenings, the aroma of warm cookies filling the house, and the excitement of unwrapping those shiny chocolate kisses. It’s a simple recipe that brings people together, whether you’re sharing them with friends, family, or that special someone.
Globally, cookies like these have become a staple for various celebrations, showcasing how food can connect cultures and traditions. The Hershey’s Kiss adds a touch of whimsy, making these cookies not only delicious but also visually appealing. So, if you’re looking to spread some love this Valentine’s Day, these cookies are the perfect way to do it!
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these cookies fit perfectly into your busy schedule, making them a go-to treat for any occasion.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery cookie and melty chocolate creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love helping to roll the dough and place the Hershey’s Kisses, making this a fun family activity that fosters togetherness.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the Hershey’s Kisses for other chocolates or add sprinkles for a festive touch, allowing you to personalize each batch.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for gifting to friends, neighbors, or teachers, spreading love and sweetness throughout your community.
Who It’s For
Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy families looking to create sweet memories together. They appeal to health-conscious cooks who appreciate a simple, homemade treat without complicated ingredients. Food lovers will also enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, making these cookies a must-try for anyone who enjoys baking.
When to Cook It
These cookies are versatile enough for any occasion! Bake them for weeknight dinners to surprise your family, or whip up a batch for Valentine’s Day celebrations. They also make a lovely addition to school parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. No matter when you choose to bake them, they’re sure to bring joy and warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This is the base of your cookie dough, providing richness and flavor. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp edge. You can use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: This gives the cookies a chewy texture and a hint of caramel flavor. Light or dark brown sugar works well.
- 2 large eggs: They bind the ingredients together. For a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to use almond extract for a different twist.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the cookies. You can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For rolling the dough balls, adding a sweet touch and a beautiful finish.
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped: The star of the show! You can use any chocolate candy for a fun variation.
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. The mixture should be light in color and creamy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined, creating a luscious batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough.
- Form the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in powdered sugar for a sweet coating.
- Prepare for baking: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Pop them in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect!
- Add the Hershey’s Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The chocolate will melt slightly, creating a delicious topping.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the heavenly aroma!
If you’re looking for sugar substitutes, consider using stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, or allulose. These options provide sweetness without the calories of sugar. However, avoid using honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes is essential for combining ingredients. If you don’t have mixing bowls, any large, deep dish will work.
- Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugars effortless. If you don’t have one, a whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick!
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. If you’re in a pinch, use a standard coffee mug for dry ingredients and a tablespoon for smaller measurements.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is necessary for even baking. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish can serve as a substitute.
- Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you’re out, lightly greasing the baking sheet will work as an alternative.
- Wire Rack: Ideal for cooling cookies evenly. If you don’t have one, a plate or cutting board can be used to cool your cookies.
When it comes to baking the perfect Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies, a few expert tips can elevate your cookie game. Here are some chef-approved hacks that I’ve gathered over the years:
- Chill the Dough: Renowned pastry chef Jacques Torres suggests chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and results in a thicker, chewier cookie.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Celebrity chef Ina Garten emphasizes the importance of using high-quality chocolate. Opt for Hershey’s Kisses or even gourmet chocolate for a richer flavor that will impress your loved ones.
- Don’t Overbake: According to baking expert Dorie Greenspan, the key to soft cookies is to take them out of the oven when they still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Chef Christina Tosi encourages creativity in the kitchen. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract to the dough for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Decorate with Love: Renowned baker Sally McKenney suggests using colored sugar or sprinkles to roll the dough balls for a festive touch. This not only adds visual appeal but also makes your cookies extra special for Valentine’s Day.
By incorporating these tips from culinary experts, you’ll not only enhance the flavor and texture of your Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies but also create a memorable baking experience that you can share with your loved ones.
To keep your Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here are some practical tips for storing and reheating your cookies:
- Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a particularly warm climate, you may want to refrigerate your cookies. Just be sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
- Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked taste, reheat your cookies in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cookies on a baking sheet, and warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the chocolate kisses regain their melty goodness!
By following these storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies long after they come out of the oven, keeping the love alive with every bite!
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for a soft, chewy texture.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies that spread too much. A quick chill helps maintain their shape.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
- Pressing Kisses Too Hard: When adding the Hershey’s Kisses, press gently. Pushing too hard can cause the cookies to crack or break apart.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Q: Can I use different chocolates instead of Hershey’s Kisses for my Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies?
A: Yes! You can absolutely swap out Hershey’s Kisses for other chocolate candies like Rolos, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or even chocolate-covered caramels for a fun twist.
Q: Are Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies suitable for freezing?
A: Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container, and they can last up to three months in the freezer.
Q: Can I make Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies gluten-free?
A: It depends. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Q: Is it possible to reduce the sugar in Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies?
A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and sweetness of the cookies. Consider using sugar substitutes for a healthier option.
Q: Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies?
A: Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit to the dough for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.
As you gather your loved ones to bake these delightful Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies, remember that it’s not just about the cookies; it’s about the memories you create together. Each bite is a sweet reminder of love, laughter, and the joy of sharing. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and decorations, making these cookies uniquely yours.
After you’ve baked your batch, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Share your experiences, tips, or any fun variations you tried in the comments below. Let’s spread the love this Valentine’s Day, one cookie at a time!
Print
Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and festive cookies topped with a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss, perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in powdered sugar.
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Discover my list of kitchen tools I always use.
Notes
- For a festive touch, use colored sugar to roll the cookie dough balls.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Valentine’s Day Hershey Kiss Cookies
