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These chocolate mint truffle kiss cookies are exactly what you want when the holidays call for something rich yet fresh and inviting. The combination of deep cocoa flavor and a burst of peppermint from the Hershey's Mint Truffle Kiss makes these cookies feel festive and special without spending hours in the kitchen.
I once made these for a holiday party with barely any prep time and ended up with everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Flour: Three cups of flour to give the cookies a sturdy but tender texture
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: One cup adds that intense chocolate richness choose a natural unsweetened for the best flavor
- Baking soda and baking powder: Together create the perfect lift and softness without drying out the cookies
- Salt: Essential to balance all the sweetness and enhance the chocolate notes
- Granulated and packed brown sugar: Equal parts bring both sweetness and moisture for chewy edges
- Imperial margarine: At room temperature provides the right fat content for texture and flavor if you prefer butter, make sure it is softened to keep the dough creamy
- Eggs: Two at room temperature bind the ingredients and keep the cookies chewy and rich
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm backbone to the chocolate
- Peppermint extract: Key for the fresh mint flavor be careful to use real peppermint extract, not just mint flavoring
- Granulated sugar for rolling: Half a cup gives a lovely crackly outer texture
- Hershey's Mint Truffle Kisses: Sixty unwrapped for the melty mint chocolate crown on each cookie
Instructions
- Build The Dry Mix:
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until everything is evenly combined this ensures your rising agents are spread out through the dough for even baking.
- Cream The Sugars And Margarine:
- Using a mixer, cream the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and margarine for about three to four minutes until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. This step is important because it helps trap air for a lighter cookie texture.
- Add The Eggs And Extracts:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla and peppermint extracts until the batter is uniform. Using room temperature ingredients allows everything to combine smoothly and prevents the dough from seizing up.
- Combine Wet And Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture mixing just until there are no dry streaks left be careful not to overmix as this can cause tougher cookies. Scrape down the sides to ensure full incorporation.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Put the 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a small bowl. Using a one tablespoon scoop, drop dollops of dough directly into the sugar. Roll each dough ball gently in the sugar until fully coated for a delicate sparkle and sugar crust.
- Arrange The Cookies:
- Place the coated dough balls on parchment lined baking sheets leaving about two inches between each to allow for spreading. Proper spacing prevents the cookies from merging into one another.
- Bake And Add Kisses:
- Bake in a preheated 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven for eight to nine minutes. While baking, unwrap all the Hershey's Mint Truffle Kisses so you are ready for the next step.
- Press The Kiss:
- Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press one unwrapped kiss into the center of each cookie. The kiss will soften and slightly melt into the top of the warm cookie for that signature look and flavor.
- Cooling:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about ten minutes to set the chocolate kiss then transfer to a wire rack until completely cooled this stops the bottom from getting soggy and keeps the cookie texture just right.
I have always loved how peppermint complements chocolate especially in this cookie the kiss on top looks like a decoration and tastes like a gift every time. Baking this recipe brings back warm memories of making holiday treats with family, everyone’s excitement when the kisses get pressed in always makes me smile.
Storage Tips
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and they will stay fresh for up to five days. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking especially because of the melted truffle kisses. For longer storage these cookies freeze beautifully wrapped tightly in plastic wrap then placed in a sealed freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Ingredient Swaps
You can use unsalted butter instead of margarine but be sure to soften it completely for the right consistency. If you cannot find peppermint extract try making a homemade mint infusion or use a small amount of crushed candy canes for a similar effect but the classic peppermint extract flavor is superior. Brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar if desired for a slightly different sweetness and texture.
Serving Ideas
These cookies are fantastic paired with a glass of cold milk or a hot mug of coffee. For a festive presentation sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top after pressing the kiss for extra crunch and color. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other classic favorites.
These chocolate mint truffle kiss cookies perfectly balance festive flavors with quick preparation for a delightful holiday treat.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What gives these cookies their minty flavor?
The peppermint extract infused in the dough provides the refreshing minty undertone that complements the chocolate.
- → Can I substitute the Hershey's Mint Truffle Kiss with another chocolate?
While you can use other chocolates, the mint truffle kisses add a unique creamy mint center that's key to this treat's signature taste.
- → Why roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking?
Rolling in sugar creates a slight crunch on the cookie’s exterior, giving a pleasant texture contrast to the soft interior.
- → What is the best way to avoid spreading during baking?
Avoid using silicone mats as they can cause spreading; parchment paper is recommended for maintaining shape.
- → How long should the cookies cool before serving?
Let the cookies cool on baking sheets for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack until completely cool to set the mint topping well.