HERSHEY’S SECRET KISS COOKIES

Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies are a delightful surprise treat that combines a buttery, nutty dough with a hidden Hershey’s Kiss chocolate center. These cookies are soft, melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and coated with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Why Make This Recipe

These Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies offer the perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a smooth, chocolate-filled center. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are loved by kids and adults alike. Plus, they make for an elegant and delicious gift during the holiday season.

How to Make Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies

These cookies start with a buttery walnut-infused dough, which is chilled before being wrapped around a Hershey’s Kiss. After baking, they are coated in powdered sugar, creating a sweet, snow-like finish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 6 ounces Hershey’s Kisses milk chocolate (about 36 pieces)
• Confectioners’ sugar (Powdered Sugar), for coating

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well blended.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add flour and finely chopped walnuts, stirring until a uniform dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
4. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Prepare the Chocolate: Unwrap the Hershey’s Kisses chocolates.
6. Form the Cookies: Take about 1 tablespoon of chilled dough, shape it around a chocolate Kiss, and roll it into a ball, ensuring the chocolate is completely covered.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake: Bake for 12 minutes or until the cookies are set but not browned.
9. Cool & Coat: Allow cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar while still warm.
10. Final Touch: Before serving, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm when the chocolate inside is still soft. They pair well with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Perfect for holiday platters or as a sweet afternoon treat.

How to Store Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: These cookies do not require refrigeration but can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies

• Use softened butter for a smooth, easy-to-mix dough.
• Chill the dough to make shaping easier and prevent spreading during baking.
• Make sure the chocolate is fully enclosed to prevent melting out of the cookies.
• Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm for better adherence and a classic snowball effect.

Variations

• Almond Kiss Cookies: Swap walnuts for finely chopped almonds.
• Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies: Use peanut butter in place of butter for a peanut butter version.
• Dark Chocolate Kiss Cookies: Use dark chocolate Hershey’s Kisses for a richer taste.
• Coconut Kiss Cookies: Add shredded coconut to the dough for extra texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Yes! Simply omit the walnuts for a nut-free version.

2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Try using white chocolate Kisses or caramel-filled Kisses for a twist.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from cracking?
Ensure the dough is chilled properly, and gently roll the dough to seal any cracks before baking.

These Hershey’s Secret Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. With a hidden chocolate center and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re bound to impress!