Kiss cookies, also known as peanut butter blossom cookies, are a timeless treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with a sweet chocolate kiss on top. These cookies are a favorite among both kids and adults and are often enjoyed during holidays or special occasions. In this article, we will explore the history, recipe, variations, tips, serving suggestions, health benefits, and storage of kiss cookies, and answer some frequently asked questions about this delicious delight.
Introduction
Kiss cookies are a type of cookie that is made with a peanut butter dough and topped with a chocolate kiss candy. The combination of the creamy peanut butter and the sweet chocolate creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, making these cookies a popular choice among cookie enthusiasts.
History
The history of kiss cookies can be traced back to the mid-20th century in America. The original recipe for peanut butter blossom cookies, which is the base for kiss cookies, was developed by Freda F. Smith and published in the 1957 edition of the Pillsbury’s 5th Grand National Recipe and Baking Contest Cookbook. Since then, this classic recipe has become a staple in many households and has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients
The ingredients for kiss cookies are simple and easy to find in most grocery stores. To make a batch of delicious kiss cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter
- Eggs
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Chocolate kisses candies
These basic ingredients can be easily found in any kitchen, making kiss cookies a convenient treat to bake at home.
Recipe
Making kiss cookies at home is a fun and straightforward process. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own batch of delightful kiss cookies:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients listed above and measure them out according to the recipe. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Mix
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter, sugar, and peanut butter mixture. Mix well after each addition until fully combined.
Step 4: Sift and Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Shape the Dough and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll the dough into balls and then roll them in granulated sugar to coat them evenly. Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss candy into the center of each cookie, gently pushing down until the edges crack slightly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, the kiss cookies are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Variations
While the classic kiss cookie recipe calls for peanut butter and chocolate kisses, there are several variations you can try to customize the cookies to your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossoms: Use chocolate dough instead of peanut butter dough, and top with a peanut butter cup candy instead of a chocolate kiss.
Almond Butter Blossoms: Substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
Nutella Blossoms: Use Nutella spread in place of peanut butter for a hazelnut twist.
Mint Blossoms: Use mint-flavored dough and top with a chocolate mint candy for a refreshing flavor.
Tips for Making Perfect Kiss Cookies
- Make sure to use creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor in the cookies.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping into balls. This will help the dough hold its shape and prevent spreading during baking.
- Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a slightly crunchy, sweet coating on the outside of the cookies.
- Press the chocolate kiss candies into the cookies immediately after they come out of the oven while the cookies are still soft. This will help the candies adhere to the cookies and create the classic “blossom” shape.
Serving Suggestions
Kiss cookies are delicious on their own, but they can also be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas for serving kiss cookies:
As a dessert: Serve kiss cookies as a sweet treat after a meal or for dessert at a party or gathering.
With milk or coffee: Enjoy kiss cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a delightful snack.
As a gift: Package a batch of kiss cookies in a decorative tin or gift box and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions.
Health Benefits
While kiss cookies are undeniably delicious, they are also treats that should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, peanut butter, which is a main ingredient in kiss cookies, does offer some health benefits. Peanut butter is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, and it also contains important vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. However, it is also high in calories and fat, so it’s important to consume it in moderation.
Storage
If you have leftover kiss cookies or want to make them ahead of time, here are some tips for storing them:
In an airtight container: Place the cooled kiss cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together. Store at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
In the freezer: You can also freeze kiss cookie dough or baked cookies for longer storage. To freeze the dough, shape it into balls and place them on