Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses: The Best Indulgent Treat

Name: Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses: The Best Indulgent Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 dozen Hershey Kisses

Sofia H.

December 14, 2025

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Introduction to Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Baking has an unparalleled way of bringing people together, and sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses are a sweet reminder of this joy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these delightful treats are simple to whip up, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Imagine soft, buttery cookies topped with melting chocolate kisses—a perfect combination of flavors and textures that draws everyone in.

Why Homemade Sugar Cookies Are a Must-Try

So, why should you take the plunge and make your own sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses? For starters, there’s something incredibly rewarding about creating treats from scratch. You have control over every ingredient, allowing you to customize flavors and satisfy dietary preferences. Plus, the aroma of baking cookies wafting through your kitchen is unbeatable.

Homemade cookies can also be tailored for special occasions. Birthdays, holidays, or just because—these cookies fit any celebration. According to a survey by the American Bakers Association, nearly 95% of people enjoy homemade baked goods more than store-bought ones. This makes them not just delicious but also an oasis of nostalgia.

But let’s be real: everyone loves adding their unique spin. You can get creative by mixing in nuts or candies, or even experimenting with different flavors of Hershey Kisses! Whether you opt for classic milk chocolate, caramel-filled, or even seasonal flavors, each bite offers a new experience.

Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for a better texture. Creaming the butter and sugar properly helps create that light, airy cookie we all love.
Curious About Variations? Check out this article for more inspiration on sugar cookie variations that will amaze your friends.

Homemade sugar cookies are also a fantastic way to bond with family and friends. Set up a cookie decorating party, and you’ll create not only cookies but also lasting memories. So, why not gather your loved ones, bring out the mixing bowl, and ignite your baking passion? You might just find your new favorite tradition in a simple sugar cookie!

Ingredients for Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

When it comes to making delightful sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, having the right ingredients is essential for that perfect chewy yet crispy texture. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this sweet treat.

Essential Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour (2 ¾ cups): This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetness is key, and white sugar is your best bet for that classic flavor.
Butter (1 cup, softened): Choose unsalted butter for better control of your salt levels—it’s a crucial factor in balancing your cookie dough.
Eggs (2 large): Adding moisture and helping with binding, these are vital!
Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): This will give your cookies that lovely lift.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): For that warm, aromatic flavor.
Hershey Kisses (1 bag): The star of the show—these chocolatey gems will make your cookies irresistible!

These ingredients mix together to create the perfect canvas for a sweet chocolaty topping. Don’t forget to check out sources like the American Institute for Cancer Research for tips on healthier baking if you’re looking to cut back!

Preparing Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Making sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is a delightful process that adds a sweet twist to your baking adventures. These cookies bring back fond memories of childhood, when the scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the house was enough to evoke smiles and bring families together. Below, we detail the steps to create your very own treat that’s sure to impress friends, family, and even yourself!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the mixing, it’s important to have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup Hershey Kisses (unwrapped)

Preparation is key, and having these ingredients on hand ensures a seamless baking experience. For a touch of fun, you can play around with different types of Hershey Kisses for various flavors!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

Take a medium-sized bowl and start by combining the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well-blended. This step is crucial because it ensures that the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are evenly distributed throughout the flour, allowing your cookies to rise just right. Check out King Arthur Baking for more tips on mixing dry ingredients effectively.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step may seem simple, but it’s vital. Creaming incorporates air into the butter, which will help your cookies achieve that perfect soft texture. You could also add an anecdote here—remember the joy of creaming butter with your mom? It’s an experience you can relive!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now that your butter and sugar are ready, it’s time to incorporate the egg and vanilla extract. Beat them together until fully combined, then gradually add your dry mixture. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. If you’ve followed the steps so far, your kitchen should be filled with a delightful aroma that hints at sweetness to come!

Shape and Dust the Cookies

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, begin shaping the dough into small balls, about an inch in diameter. Roll each ball in sugar to coat for that classic sugar cookie look. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Bake and Add the Hershey Kisses

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the cookies for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just golden. The aroma will be irresistible! Just as they come out of the oven, press a Hershey Kiss gently into the center of each cookie. The cookies will be warm enough for the chocolate to slightly melt, creating that gorgeous melt-in-your-mouth experience. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is a perfect weekend activity, allowing you to indulge your sweet tooth while experimenting with flavors and textures. You could even host a cookie-decorating night with friends and family—who doesn’t love a personal touch? Enjoy your baking, and don’t forget to share your cookie creations with someone special!

Variations on Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

When it comes to sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, the classics are just the beginning! Let’s explore some delightful variations that will elevate your cookie game and impress your friends.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

Imagine the satisfying crunch of soft, sweet sugar cookies meeting the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter. Peanut Butter Blossoms are a perfect match! Simply substitute half of your sugar for creamy peanut butter when mixing your dough. Roll the dough into balls, bake as usual, and press a Hershey Kiss into the center right as they come out of the oven. The melty chocolate pairs beautifully with the peanut butter, making each bite utterly divine. You can even check out Peanut Butter Cookie Tips for expert advice on achieving the perfect texture.

Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies

For a twist that adds a touch of elegance, try making chocolate-dipped sugar cookies with a Hershey Kiss on top. After baking the sugar cookies and allowing them to cool, melt some semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave or double boiler. Dip the edge of each cookie into the gooey goodness, then place a Hershey Kiss on top. This simple step transforms your typical cookie into a sophisticated treat fit for any gathering. If you need some guidance on chocolate tempering, the Chocolate Manufacturers Association has excellent resources to help you along the way.

Explore these variations to add a personal touch to your sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses. Whether you’re craving a nutty kick or a chocolatey embrace, these cookies are sure to please any palate!

Baking Notes for Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Baking sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is a delightful and rewarding experience, and a few simple notes can help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness. Ensure it’s at room temperature to create a smooth dough.
Sugar: For a more complex flavor, consider mixing granulated sugar with brown sugar.

Don’t Skip the Chilling

Chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. This step is crucial for those clean edges we all admire in a perfectly baked sugar cookie.

Baking Tips and Tricks

Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
Kisses Timing: Add the Hershey Kisses right after the cookies come out of the oven; they’ll melt slightly and adhere beautifully to the warm cookies.

For more insights on cookie baking techniques, check out resources from the Joy of Baking and King Arthur Baking.

By following these baking notes, your sugar cookies will not only look good but taste amazing—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet treat during any season!

Serving Suggestions for Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

When it comes to sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, the possibilities for serving and pairing are delightful and endless. Here are a few ideas to elevate your sweet treat experience:

Drink Pairings

Milk: A classic choice! A cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and is perfect for dipping.
Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a warm cup of hot chocolate. The chocolatey goodness pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery flavor of the cookies.

Creative Presentation

Cookie Platters: Arrange your cookies on a colorful platter with some fresh fruit or seasonal decorations. This adds a festive touch that’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Gift Bags: Homemade cookies make fantastic gifts! Package them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a personal touch, great for parties or as a thoughtful gesture for friends.

Enhancements and Variations

Add Sprinkles: Before baking, sprinkle some colorful icing or festive sprinkles on top of the cookies for extra flair.
Use Different Kisses: Experiment with various types of Hershey Kisses! Try using caramel-filled or almond Kisses for a fun twist.

Whether for a gathering or just a treat at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience with sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses. Got any creative ideas? Share them with us!

Tips for Making Perfect Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Creating delicious sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is easier than you think, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your baking game. Let’s dive into some practical advice that will ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

One essential step is to make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows for better mixing and leads to a smoother dough. Ideally, let them sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking.

Chill Your Dough

Chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking is key. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, leading to beautifully shaped cookies that hold the kisses on top perfectly.

Don’t Overbake

Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Remember, they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you pull them out. For an expert tip, consider investing in an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.

Timing for Adding Kisses

Once your cookies are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute or so before pressing the Hershey Kisses gently into the center. This timing will keep the chocolates melty and delightful but not completely melted.

Experiment with Flavor

Feel free to customize your sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses by adding a dash of almond or vanilla extract to the dough. According to America’s Test Kitchen, small flavor tweaks can make a big difference.

With these tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to baking perfect sugar cookies that will impress your friends and family. Happy baking!

Time details for Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Preparation time

Getting started on your sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is a breeze! You’ll want to set aside about 15 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, measuring them out, and mixing everything to create that delightful dough. Don’t rush this part—taking the time to properly cream the butter and sugar will make a noticeable difference in texture and taste.

Baking time

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to bake. Pop those cookies in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to turn a light golden color around the edges. Baking always fills the kitchen with such a cozy aroma, doesn’t it?

Total time

In total, you’ll invest roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. After baking, don’t forget to allow a few minutes for the cookies to cool before adding those Hershey Kisses on top. The waiting is the hardest part, but trust me, it’ll be worth it when you take that first bite!

If you’re curious about more fun cookie recipes, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for inspiration. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

When indulging in sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, it’s helpful to understand the nutritional profile. This way, you can enjoy your treat without the guilt!

Calories

A single sugar cookie topped with a Hershey Kiss typically contains about 120 calories. While they can be a delightful treat, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your daily intake.

Protein

These cookies are not a significant source of protein, with approximately 1 gram per serving. If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, consider pairing them with a glass of milk or a protein-rich snack afterward.

Sugar Content

As for sweetness, each cookie holds roughly 10 grams of sugar. This sugar largely comes from both the cookie dough and the Hershey Kiss. If you’re on a low-sugar diet, it may be worth considering how many you treat yourself to!

For better health insights, check out resources like the American Heart Association or MyFitnessPal for personalized nutritional tracking. Enjoy your baking while being mindful of your nutrition!

FAQs about Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! While the classic method involves sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, feel free to experiment with various chocolates. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate kisses can add a delightful twist to your cookies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try including flavored Kisses like caramel or mint for a unique flavor profile. This flexibility allows you to tailor the cookies to your taste or even the season!

How do I store the cookies?

To keep those delicious sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses fresh, start by letting them cool completely. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay tasty for about a week. If you want to prolong their life, consider freezing them—just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste as good as fresh!

What’s a good substitute for butter?

If you’re looking for a substitute for butter in your sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses, consider using coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option. Applesauce or Greek yogurt can also add moisture while cutting down on fat. Keep in mind that these can alter the texture slightly, so it may take a few tries to find the perfect balance for your baking preferences.

If you’re interested in exploring more about substitutes, you might want to check out the USDA’s food substitution guidelines for more ideas and tips!

Conclusion on Sugar Cookies with Hershey Kisses

If you’ve been looking to elevate your dessert game, sugar cookies with Hershey Kisses is an ideal choice! These delightful treats not only offer a perfect blend of texture and flavor but also make for an impressive presentation at gatherings.

Imagine serving a warm plate of these cookies to friends and family, each with a chocolatey surprise nestled on top. This recipe is incredibly adaptable: try swapping different flavors of Hershey Kisses or even adding festive sprinkles for various occasions.

Whether it’s a simple family get-together or a holiday party, you’ll find that these cookies quickly become a crowd favorite! Discover more about cookie variations at The Spruce Eats, which has great tips and variations to keep your baking fresh. Enjoy baking and sharing your creations!