Name: Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 24 candy cane kisses

Soft, buttery, and topped with a festive peppermint kiss, Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are the kind of holiday treat that instantly brings warmth to your kitchen. With their delicate texture and refreshing minty finish, they strike the perfect balance between classic sugar cookies and seasonal flair.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, gifting homemade treats, or simply craving something sweet with a holiday twist, these cookies are simple to make yet incredibly impressive. The signature candy cane kiss pressed into each cookie makes them both beautiful and delicious.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable. A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients evenly, while an electric mixer helps create a light and fluffy dough. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy, which is key for achieving the perfect cookie texture.

A baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even baking. A cookie scoop helps portion the dough consistently, ensuring uniform cookies. Lastly, a cooling rack allows the cookies to set properly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients for the Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Granulated sugar adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s tender texture.

Unsalted butter provides richness and creates that soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

Egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds structure.

Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

All-purpose flour forms the base of the dough, giving the cookies their shape.

Baking powder ensures the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.

Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Candy cane kisses bring the festive peppermint flavor and act as the signature topping.

How To Make the Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Add the Candy Cane Kiss

Immediately press a candy cane kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.

Step 6: Cool and Set

Allow the cookies to cool on a rack so the chocolate sets properly without melting too much.

Serving and Storing Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Serve these cookies slightly cooled when the chocolate is set but still soft inside for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them longer, they can be frozen without the candy kiss and topped after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular chocolate kisses instead?

Yes, but you’ll miss the peppermint flavor that makes these cookies unique.

Why did my kisses melt too much?

They were likely added while the cookies were too hot. Let cookies cool for a minute before pressing them in.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not required, but chilling helps prevent spreading.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze them in layers with parchment paper between each layer.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Candy Cane Kiss Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• https://lifewitholivia.com/whipped-shortbread-cookies/
• https://lifewitholivia.com/brownie-mix-cookies-recipe/
• https://lifewitholivia.com/easy-texas-turtle-sheet-cake/
• https://lifewitholivia.com/strawberry-cheesecake-dump-cake/

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you’re looking for more daily recipe inspiration, check out my Pinterest here: https://www.pinterest.com/scherer29/.

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you try different flavors or stick with classic peppermint? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Candy Cane Kiss Cookies

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies

Print Recipe

Description

Soft, buttery Candy Cane Kiss Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, combining a classic sugar cookie base with a festive peppermint chocolate center. This easy recipe is ideal for quick dessert ideas, holiday baking, edible gifts, and fun food ideas for parties or family gatherings.