Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of ginger and cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, memories of holiday gatherings and laughter come rushing back. These Chewy Gingerbread Blossom Cookies with Hershey’s Kisses not only celebrate the joy of festive baking but also provide a delightful contrast of flavors that are truly irresistible. With quick prep and a crowd-pleasing charm, these cookies are perfect for sharing or simply savoring on your own during cozy winter evenings. The creamy chocolate kisses perched on top of each warm, chewy cookie are sure to bring a sweet smile to anyone who tries them. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the spirit of the season and create a batch of these delectable treats? Let’s dive into the heart of holiday baking together! Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake? Irresistible aroma: The blend of ginger and cinnamon will fill your kitchen with festive warmth as you bake. Easy preparation: No complicated techniques here! With simple mixing and minimal downtime, anyone can whip up these cookies with ease. Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to delight friends and family alike with their unique combination of chewy texture and sweet chocolate. Versatile variations: Want something different? Try substituting the Hershey’s Kisses with caramel or peanut butter cups, or make them gluten-free with a flour swap! Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for busy bakers, the dough can be prepared in advance and even frozen, ensuring you’re always ready to share a bit of holiday cheer. Don’t forget to try these alongside a warm cup of cocoa for an extra festive touch! Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough All-purpose flour – Provides structure; ensure proper rising by whisking with baking soda and salt. Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent; essential for achieving a light texture. Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; use sparingly, about ¼ teaspoon. Ground ginger – Gives warm spice flavor; can substitute with fresh ginger for a different taste profile. Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; an essential spice for holiday flavors. Nutmeg – Provides a subtle spice; use sparingly for extra warm notes. Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness; should be at room temperature for even mixing. Dark brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture; light brown sugar can be used as a substitute, but flavors will differ. Molasses – Ensures a distinct gingerbread flavor; for a lighter taste, honey or maple syrup may work instead. Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; should also be at room temperature. Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; essential for rounding out the cookie’s taste. For Rolling Granulated sugar – Coating for added sweetness and texture; perfect for that festive sparkle. For the Topping Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Kisses – Beautiful decorative topping; feel free to switch to dark chocolate Kisses based on your preference. These Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors that embody the joy of the holiday season, making them a must-try! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. This blend not only sets the foundation for your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies but also evenly distributes the spices for a delightful flavor throughout. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a stand mixer, beat ¾ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of dark brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The buttery aroma should fill your kitchen, ensuring a perfect base for the richness in your cookies. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients. Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients Next, add ½ cup of molasses, 1 large egg (at room temperature), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed until fully combined, approximately 1-2 minutes. The rich, dark syrup will deepen the cookie’s flavor, creating a wonderful holiday essence. Make sure there are no streaks of dry ingredients left in the batter. Step 4: Combine the Mixtures Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should come together and have a slightly sticky texture, ready for chilling. This step ensures your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies achieve the perfect chewy consistency. Step 5: Chill the Dough Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Chilling the dough is crucial for shaping the cookies and preventing them from spreading too much while baking. A well-chilled dough will yield beautifully shaped cookies with a soft and chewy center. Step 6: Preheat the Oven When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation will ensure that your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies bake evenly and come off the sheets without sticking. The warmth of the oven will also fill your home with an inviting aroma. Step 7: Shape the Cookies Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and scoop out about 1.5-inch portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then roll it in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish. Place the dough balls on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for spreading during baking. Step 8: Bake the Cookies Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops have a nice crinkle. Carefully monitor them, as overbaking can lead to a less chewy texture. As the cookies bake, the aroma will create a festive atmosphere in your kitchen. Step 9: Add the Chocolate Kisses Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press an unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The warmth from the cookie will slightly melt the bottom of the Kiss, helping it adhere perfectly. This step adds both a visual appeal and delicious chocolate flavor to your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies. Step 10: Cool the Cookies Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This short cooling time allows the cookies to set slightly, ensuring they maintain their shape. Once on the rack, let them cool completely, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully before enjoying! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into a disc, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it. For longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling into balls and baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in granulated sugar, and bake. This way, you’ll have fresh-baked cookies ready with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit hassle-free! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain their deliciously chewy texture and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer an extra layer of freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks. However, they may become slightly firmer. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This keeps the Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies ready for future celebrations! Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, allowing the chocolate Kisses to soften just right. What to Serve with Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Imagine cozying up with your loved ones, enjoying these festive treats alongside warm drinks and delightful sides. Steaming Hot Cocoa: A rich, velvety cocoa perfectly complements the sweet chocolate Kisses, making every bite a cozy delight. Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices of chai enhance the ginger and cinnamon notes in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing perfect for holiday gatherings. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, chewy cookies – an indulgent combination everyone will love. Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry Twists: Light and flakey, these twists bring a delightful crunch and touch of sweetness, balancing the chewiness of the cookies. Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, spiced flavors of apple cider echo the gingerbread notes, creating a comforting drink that warms you from the inside out. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels, coated in chocolate, provides a fun bite alongside the soft, sweet cookies for a textural contrast. Gingerbread Latte: Infused with the same warm spices, this latte will tie your dessert experience together, enhancing the flavors of gingerbread cookies. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars bring an additional sweet option to your holiday spread, enticing guests with their crunchy texture. Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a creamy, nutmeg-infused richness, closely matching the flavors of the cookies and bringing festive cheer to your table. Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Variations Feel free to put your own spin on these festive cookies and make them even more delightful! Nut-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with a nut-free margarine for a nut-sensitive version. These cookies will still boast that lovely texture without any nuts. Vegan: Swap out the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water), use dairy-free butter, and choose dark chocolate Kisses or a vegan chocolate alternative. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected spicy twist! It brightens the flavor and gives a warm zing that is perfect for the holidays. Plus One Flavor: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and rustic flair. This will not only add texture but also enhance the flavor wonderfully. Fruity Touch: Incorporate ⅓ cup of dried cranberries or raisins into the dough to introduce a sweet and chewy fruit note, creating a lovely contrast with the spices. Chocolate Overload: Replace Hershey’s Kisses with chocolate chunks or even pieces of caramel-filled chocolates for a gooey surprise in every bite. Chocolate lovers will adore this twist! Pumpkin Spice Version: Blend in ½ cup of pumpkin puree (reduce molasses slightly) and add pumpkin pie spice instead of the traditional spices for a festive autumnal flair. Gluten-Free: Use a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour. This will keep everyone included in the cookie fun! While you’re enjoying these variations, don’t forget to check out my delightful Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies for a unique twist on holiday goodness, or try the incredible Velvet Crinkle Cookies for a colorful addition to your festive collection! Each variation allows you to create personalized treats that your loved ones will cherish. Expert Tips for Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Chill Dough Thoroughly: Ensuring the dough is well-chilled prevents excessive spreading while baking, maintaining that perfect chewy texture for your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies. Room Temperature Ingredients: Use butter, eggs, and molasses at room temperature. This promotes better mixing, leading to a fluffier and richer cookie. Mind the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them when the edges are lightly golden to avoid dryness, which can compromise their delightful chewy quality. Press Kisses Promptly: Gently press the chocolate Kisses into the warm cookies right after they come out of the oven. This ensures they’re perfectly melted and adhere beautifully. Store Properly: To maintain freshness, seal your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, ensuring you get to enjoy your Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies for longer! Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of flour should I use for the cookies? For these Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies, all-purpose flour is best as it provides the right structure and texture. Make sure to whisk it with the baking soda and salt to ensure even rising. How do I store the cookies after baking? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them chewy and delicious. If you want to enjoy them for longer, consider refrigerating them in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks, but be aware they may become slightly firmer. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Absolutely! To freeze the dough, shape it into balls as per the recipe, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookie balls into a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking? If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to not chilling the dough long enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 4 hours or overnight. If the dough seems too sticky, try refrigerating it for additional time. Also, be mindful of your oven temperature; using an oven thermometer can help ensure it’s accurate. Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs? Yes! For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you have allergies, make sure to check the label on your Hershey’s Kisses and opt for dairy-free chocolates if necessary. Additionally, if you’re sensitive to ginger or cinnamon, feel free to reduce those spices according to your preference. How do I know when my cookies are properly baked? Your cookies should be removed from the oven when the edges are lightly golden and the tops look slightly cracked. They will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after being taken out, so a little underbaking can actually result in perfect chewy cookies. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen while they bake! Irresistible Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies for Holiday Cheer Experience the joy of festive baking with these Christmas Hershey Kiss Cookies, featuring a delightful contrast of ginger, cinnamon, and creamy chocolate kisses. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 8 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 38 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure; ensure proper rising by whisking with baking soda and salt.1 teaspoon baking soda Acts as a leavening agent; essential for achieving a light texture.0.25 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor; use sparingly.2 teaspoons ground ginger Gives warm spice flavor; can substitute with fresh ginger.1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and sweetness; essential spice for holiday flavors.1 pinch nutmeg Provides a subtle spice; use sparingly.0.75 cups unsalted butter Should be at room temperature for even mixing.1 cup dark brown sugar Contributes sweetness and moisture.0.5 cups molasses Ensures a distinct gingerbread flavor.1 large egg Should also be at room temperature.1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor; essential for rounding out the cookie's taste.For Rolling0.5 cups granulated sugar Coating for added sweetness and texture.For the Topping24 pieces Hershey's Milk Chocolate Kisses Feel free to switch to dark chocolate Kisses based on preference. Equipment Stand mixerBaking sheetsParchment paperMedium bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.In a stand mixer, beat ¾ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of dark brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.Add ½ cup of molasses, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until fully combined.Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator, scoop out about 1.5-inch portions, and roll each piece into a ball, then roll in granulated sugar.Bake the cookies for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops crinkle.Immediately press an unwrapped Hershey's Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 75mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor the best flavor, use room temperature ingredients and monitor the baking time closely to maintain chewiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
