There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of peanut butter baking in the oven, especially when it mingles with the hint of melted chocolate from Hershey’s Kisses. I remember the first time I made these cookies; I was distracted by a phone call halfway through shaping the dough balls, and my hands ended up a little messier than usual. It wasn’t perfectly neat, but honestly, that little imperfection made the experience feel more real, more homey. As the cookies baked, the kitchen filled with that warm, nutty aroma that instantly made me forget what I was doing earlier—just pure anticipation. Once they came out, I pressed the chocolate kisses into the warm tops, watching them soften slightly, creating that perfect sweet and salty combination I hadn’t realized I was craving all afternoon.
Why You’ll Love It:
- The balance of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate feels nostalgic but fresh.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly, so you can satisfy cravings without fuss.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just honest comfort food.
- Each cookie is individually topped, making them feel special even if you’re just baking for yourself.
If you’ve never tried pressing a chocolate kiss into a freshly baked peanut butter cookie, you’re in for a treat. The kiss melts just enough to soften but keeps its shape, creating a delightful texture contrast. It’s a small step that changes everything and makes baking worth the little mess or timing hiccup.
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Peanut Butter Cookies with Kisses
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Classic peanut butter cookies topped with a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss for a perfect sweet and salty treat.
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking soda
24 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Roll the dough into 24 equal-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern and flatten the cookies slightly.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Kitchen Notes:
When it comes to equipment, you really don’t need anything fancy—just a sturdy baking sheet and parchment paper to keep things from sticking. Serving these cookies with a cold glass of milk is my go-to, but they also pair nicely with a cup of coffee or tea if you want a little afternoon pick-me-up. I’ve sometimes swapped the granulated sugar for brown sugar to get a deeper flavor, though I haven’t tested that enough to say how it changes the texture. Also, if you want a little twist, try using dark chocolate kisses instead of milk chocolate for a richer bite. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking can add an unexpected but delicious layer of flavor.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: Yes, since the recipe doesn’t use flour, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your baking soda and other ingredients for cross-contamination if you have a sensitivity.
Q: How long do the cookies stay fresh? A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’re best enjoyed within five days, but they freeze well if you want to save some for later.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter? A: I usually stick with creamy for texture, but crunchy could add a nice bite if you don’t mind a little extra chewiness.
Ready to bake a batch that feels like a warm hug? Scroll down, save this recipe, and get those cookies in the oven. Your snack game just got a whole lot better.