Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Introduction

Soft, chewy, and topped with a chocolate kiss, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Perfectly sweet and simple to make, they will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients

200g all-purpose flour
100g unsalted butter, softened
150g granulated sugar
1 egg
30ml milk
5g vanilla extract
3g baking soda
2g salt
20 chocolate kisses

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 20 cookies

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. Enjoy your freshly baked chocolate kiss cookies!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use a mixer or a whisk to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Ensure that they are thoroughly mixed.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until a cohesive dough forms.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Kisses

As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, take a chocolate kiss and gently press it into the center of each warm cookie.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Once they are slightly set, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Your freshly baked chocolate kiss cookies are now ready to be enjoyed. Indulge in this delightful treat!

Notes

Storage Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their softness.

Chilling the Dough

If desired, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping it into balls to enhance the texture.

Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or holiday-themed candies for added flavor and fun!

Cooking Tip

Be careful not to over-bake the cookies; they continue to firm up as they cool, so pulling them out when they are slightly softer is ideal.

Storage Instructions

Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them to prevent moisture buildup.

Use Airtight Containers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freeze for Longer Storage

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

With a Glass of Milk

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk for a classic treat that complements the chocolate beautifully.

As a Party Favor

Package the cookies in decorative bags or boxes for a delightful party favor at birthdays or other celebrations.

With Ice Cream

Top a cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The warmth of the cookie pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size

One cookie (based on the yield of 20 cookies).

Calories

Approximately 120 calories per cookie.

Macronutrient Breakdown

- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 1g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter

For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Sugar

You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture.

All-Purpose Flour

For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Milk

Any non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, can be used in place of regular milk.

Chocolate Kisses

If chocolate kisses are unavailable, you can use any chocolate candy or a chocolate chip to top the cookies.

Cook techniques

Creaming Butter and Sugar

This technique involves beating softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture for your cookies.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

Combine the egg, milk, and vanilla extract with the creamed butter and sugar. Mixing these ingredients ensures even distribution of flavor and moisture throughout the cookie dough.

Whisking Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to incorporate the leavening agent evenly, preventing any pockets of baking soda in the finished cookies.

Forming Cookie Dough

When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. This technique helps maintain the cookies' tenderness, creating that perfect soft and chewy texture.

Baking Time and Temperature

Bake at 175°C for 8-10 minutes. Keeping a close eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time ensures they don’t overbake, leading to a dry texture.

Pressing Chocolate Kisses

Immediately after taking the cookies out of the oven, press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. This technique not only creates a beautiful presentation but also ensures that the chocolate remains melted and gooey.

Cooling Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them to set properly while still warm, making them easier to handle without breaking.

FAQ

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of unsalted butter, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

How can I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them.

Can I add nuts or other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles to the cookie dough for added flavor and texture.

What if I don't have milk?

You can substitute the milk with another liquid like almond milk, soy milk, or even water.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Excess spreading can occur if the butter was too warm when mixed with the sugar or if the dough was not chilled. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

Soft, chewy, and delightfully topped with a chocolate kiss, these cookies are a perfect treat that can brighten any occasion. Their simplicity and sweetness make them a beloved addition to any dessert table, and with just a short preparation time, you'll have a batch ready to enjoy in no time.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Peanut Butter Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Substitute half of the butter with creamy peanut butter for a nutty twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate kiss.

Mint Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the dough for a refreshing minty flavor that complements the chocolate kiss.

Chocolate Chip and Kiss Cookies

Mix in a handful of chocolate chips along with the chocolate kisses for an extra chocolatey treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Almond Flour Chocolate Kiss Cookies

For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. This gives a nutty flavor and a different texture while still being delicious.

Coconut Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair. This combination yields a delightful texture and taste that enhances the cookies.

Oatmeal Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Mix in oats to the dough for a chewy texture and a wholesome twist. The oats pair perfectly with the chocolate kisses for a delicious cookie.

Dark Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Use dark chocolate kisses instead of regular ones for a richer and more intense chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.