Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Recipe

The Best Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Sweet memories dance through kitchens when classic peanut butter kiss cookies arrive on the scene.

Chocolate drops nestled atop soft, pillowy dough create instant excitement for anyone who loves simple desserts.

Warm aromas will drift through your home, promising delectable treats that spark joy.

Classic ingredients combine effortlessly in this nostalgic recipe that connects generations of bakers.

Soft centers mingle with rich chocolate kisses, creating perfect bite-sized delights.

Crisp edges and tender middles make these cookies irresistible for everyone from kids to grandparents.

You can whip up this charming treat in less than an hour and become the star baker of your household.

  • Whip Up Effortlessly: Only six ingredients make these cookies incredibly simple to prepare, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: The classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate creates an irresistible treat that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Quick Sweet Satisfaction: These cookies come together in minimal time, making them ideal for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute dessert needs.
  • No-Fuss Family Favorite: Minimal steps and basic ingredients mean anyone can successfully create these delicious cookies, turning baking into a fun family activity.

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies (6-Ingredient) Ingredients

Main Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy base that gives rich flavor and texture to the cookies.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create crisp cookie edges.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides moisture and deep caramel-like sweetness.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Egg: Helps bind the cookie dough together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile.
Topping Ingredient:
  • Hershey Kisses: Chocolate kiss that creates a delightful sweet center.

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies: Follow These Steps

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cover a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Create Cookie Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • Peanut butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Beat these ingredients with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Binding Ingredients

Pour in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are perfectly blended and create a uniform dough.

Step 4: Shape Cookie Dough

Use a tablespoon to scoop heaping portions of dough. Roll each portion into small balls, approximately 1¼ inches in diameter. Place these dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2-3 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 5: Initial Baking Process

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 8 minutes, watching for the edges to become firm and slightly set.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Kisses

Remove the cookies from the oven. Immediately press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. This creates a delightful chocolate center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature. The chocolate kiss will set, creating a perfect sweet finish to your homemade treats.

  • Chill Dough for Cleaner Edges: Refrigerate the cookie dough for 15-30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading and maintain a neat, round shape.
  • Select Smooth Peanut Butter: Use creamy, no-stir peanut butter for the best texture and consistent cookie results.
  • Handle Kisses Gently: Let cookies cool for 1-2 minutes after removing from oven before adding chocolate kisses to prevent melting completely.
  • Make Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
  • Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray when rolling dough balls to create smoother, more uniform cookies that won't stick to your palms.

Tips for Storing Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Properly

  • Store cookies in an airtight container layered between parchment paper for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and preventing sticking.
  • Place cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper, and store for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
  • Warm individual cookies for 8-10 seconds on a microwave-safe plate to restore softness and bring back that just-baked warmth.
  • Let refrigerated cookies sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften chocolate and regain original texture.

What Goes with Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies

  • Pair with Bold Coffee Contrast: Dark roast or espresso cuts through the cookie's sweet richness, creating a delightful flavor balance that enhances the peanut butter and chocolate notes.
  • Create Wine Dessert Harmony: Select a late harvest Riesling or port wine, whose subtle sweetness complements the cookie's chocolate kiss and nutty undertones without overpowering delicate flavors.
  • Match with Creamy Milk Companion: Cold whole milk provides a smooth, refreshing counterpoint to the cookie's dense texture, allowing the peanut butter and chocolate to shine while offering a classic, comforting combination.
  • Elevate with Vanilla Milkshake Indulgence: A thick, creamy vanilla milkshake amplifies the dessert's decadence, blending seamlessly with the cookie's rich ingredients and creating a nostalgic, indulgent experience.

Recipe Takes for Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies (6-Ingredient)

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Swap regular flour for almond flour or gluten-free baking mix to create a celiac-friendly version of these classic cookies.
  • Vegan Chocolate Kiss: Replace egg with flax egg and use dairy-free chocolate kisses or dark chocolate chunks for a plant-based alternative that maintains the cookie's rich flavor.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated and brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the cookie's signature texture.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for those with nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy this sweet treat without compromise.

FAQs

  • Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but you might need to adjust the sugar slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be less sweet and can make cookies slightly drier, so consider adding a bit more sugar or using a stabilized version.

  • How do I prevent Hershey Kisses from melting completely?

After baking, let cookies cool for 1-2 minutes before gently pressing Kisses into the center. The residual heat will slightly soften the chocolate without completely liquefying it.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The basic ingredients are gluten-free, but always check your specific peanut butter and vanilla extract labels to confirm no gluten-containing additives are present.

  • Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Just bring it to room temperature before baking and rolling into balls.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Recipe

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Irresistible peanut butter kiss cookies bring classic comfort with a sweet chocolate twist, blending creamy nutty goodness and rich Hershey’s kisses. Bakers discover pure delight in this simple, nostalgic treat that melts hearts and satisfies cookie cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Cookies Base:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
  • 1 egg

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract

Topping:

  • 24 unwrapped Hershey Kisses

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F and arranging a silicone mat or parchment paper on a baking sheet for optimal cookie performance.
  2. Utilize an electric mixer to create a smooth, homogeneous blend of peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, whipping until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency.
  3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, thoroughly integrating these liquid components to develop a unified dough structure.
  4. Craft uniform cookie portions by scooping and rolling the mixture into perfectly rounded 1 ¼-inch spheres, strategically positioning them on the prepared baking surface with generous spacing.
  5. Transfer the cookie-laden sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the edges to set and develop a delicate golden perimeter through an 8-minute baking cycle.
  6. Execute a precise finishing touch by gently nestling a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie, creating a chocolate focal point.
  7. Exercise patience by permitting the cookies to cool completely, enabling the chocolate to stabilize and the cookie texture to solidify before indulging in these delectable treats.

Notes

  • Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version perfect for school lunches or allergic individuals.
  • Chill dough for 15-30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading and create more uniform, prettier cookies.
  • For gluten-sensitive friends, confirm your peanut butter is certified gluten-free, as some brands might have cross-contamination risks.
  • Use room temperature egg and kiss chocolates to ensure even baking and smooth chocolate melting into cookie center.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 139
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 78 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
Marcus Hale

Marcus Hale

Founder & Recipe Storyteller

Expertise

  • Demystifying knife work, sauce emulsification, and pastry basics.
  • Curating seasonal guides that adapt global recipes to local, in-season produce.
  • Crafting blog posts, videos, and social media tips.

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on global cuisine training emphasizes sustainable cooking and recipe development under accredited chefs.

Marcus grew up surrounded by maple trees, farm stands, and the smell of Sunday stew simmering on the stove. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from the HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he knew he didn’t want to work in fancy kitchens, he wanted to cook for real people.

At Whip Up Cook Up, Marcus is the guy turning memories into meals. His recipes are fast, full of flavor, and built for home cooks who want big taste without the drama.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star