Name: Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk; 24 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped

There’s something so nostalgic about a batch of Hershey Kiss Cookies fresh out of the oven. The combination of rich, chocolatey cookie dough and a smooth milk chocolate kiss pressed into the center makes these a holiday favorite, but honestly, I could eat them all year round. The slightly crisp sugar-coated edges, paired with the soft and fudgy center, create the perfect texture in every bite.

I love making these cookies because they are simple yet so impressive. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, a party, or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, these treats never disappoint. They’re fun to bake with kids, too—there’s something so satisfying about pressing the Hershey’s Kiss into the warm cookie. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little extra chocolate?

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies

Rich, chocolatey flavor – Perfect for any chocolate lover.
Soft and chewy – The texture is simply irresistible.
Easy to make – No fancy ingredients or techniques required.
Perfect for holidays – A classic addition to Christmas cookie platters.
Fun for kids – Little hands love helping press in the kisses!
Great for gifting – Wrap them up in a tin, and they make the perfect homemade gift.

What Kind of Hershey’s Kisses Should I Use?

When it comes to making the perfect Hershey Kiss Cookies, the classic milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses are the most popular choice. Their smooth, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the rich cocoa flavor of the cookie. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try different varieties! Dark chocolate, caramel-filled, almond, or even peppermint Hershey’s Kisses can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Just make sure to unwrap them ahead of time so you can press them into the cookies while they’re still warm.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, here are some great substitutions you can try:

Butter Substitute – Swap unsalted butter for margarine or coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.
Flour Alternatives – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if you’re avoiding gluten.
Sugar Options – Instead of granulated sugar, you can use coconut sugar for a slightly different sweetness.
Cocoa Powder – If you prefer a richer taste, use Dutch-processed cocoa instead of regular cocoa powder.
Egg-Free Version – A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water) can be a great alternative.
Chocolate Variation – Swap out the Hershey’s Kisses for a peanut butter cup or a square of your favorite chocolate.

These swaps allow you to customize the cookies while keeping that classic, chocolatey goodness intact.

Ingredients for Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cookie dough, giving structure and chewiness.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides that deep, rich chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and creates a soft texture.
Salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness, making the cookies soft and tender.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and gives the outer layer a slight crunch when rolled in sugar.
Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of caramel flavor and keeps the cookies chewy.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps with structure.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making the cookies taste even better.
Milk – Just a little bit to keep the dough soft and easy to work with.
Hershey’s Kisses – The signature finishing touch! Pressed into the cookies while warm, they add a smooth, creamy chocolate center.

These simple pantry staples come together to create a chocolate lover’s dream cookie!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This helps prevent any clumps of dry ingredients in the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating soft, chewy cookies. Next, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick, chocolatey dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.

Step 4: Roll and Coat in Sugar

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for a slight crunch on the outside. This gives the cookies a nice texture contrast.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them as they will spread slightly. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 6: Add the Hershey’s Kisses

Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth will slightly melt the chocolate, helping it stick without losing its shape.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The chocolate will firm up as they cool, creating the perfect bite!

How Long to Cook the Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies

These cookies bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look set, but the centers still appear slightly soft. It’s important to remove them from the oven before they look completely firm—they will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.

Once out of the oven, allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them hold their shape while still keeping that perfect chewy texture.

Tips for Perfect Hershey Kiss Cookies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures the butter creams properly with the sugar, creating a smooth dough.
Chill the Dough if Needed – If your dough is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading.
Roll in Sugar for Extra Texture – This gives the cookies a slightly crisp outer layer, making them even more delicious.
Press the Kiss in Gently – Don’t press too hard, or the cookie might crack too much. A light press is enough to set the chocolate in place.
Unwrap the Kisses in Advance – Have them ready to go as soon as the cookies come out of the oven so you can press them in while warm.
Let Them Cool Completely – The chocolate kiss will be soft at first but will firm up as the cookies cool. Be patient to avoid smudging.

Following these simple tips will ensure you get soft, chewy, and perfectly shaped cookies every time!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overbaking the Cookies – These cookies should be slightly soft when they come out of the oven. Overbaking will make them dry instead of chewy.
Pressing the Kiss Too Hard – A gentle press is enough. If you press too hard, the cookie may crack too much, or the chocolate could lose its shape.
Not Measuring Ingredients Properly – Too much flour will make the cookies dense, while too little will cause them to spread too much. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
Skipping the Sugar Coating – Rolling the dough in sugar adds a slight crunch and a beautiful finish. Don’t skip this step!
Handling the Cookies Too Soon – The chocolate kiss will be very soft right after being placed on the warm cookies. Let them cool completely so the chocolate sets properly.
Using Warm Dough – If your dough is too warm, the cookies may spread too much in the oven. If needed, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
Forgetting to Preheat the Oven – Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Placing cookies in a cold oven can affect the final texture.

What to Serve With Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right drink or dessert can make them even better!

1. A Glass of Cold Milk

The classic pairing! The richness of the chocolate cookie balances perfectly with a cold glass of milk.

2. Hot Chocolate

Double the chocolate? Yes, please! A warm cup of hot chocolate makes these cookies extra indulgent.

3. Coffee or Espresso

The slight bitterness of coffee complements the sweet chocolate flavor beautifully.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream

Crush a cookie over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy and delicious dessert.

5. Whipped Cream or Chocolate Drizzle

Serve the cookies with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence.

6. Peanut Butter Dip

For a fun twist, serve these cookies with a small bowl of peanut butter for dipping. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is always a winner.

7. A Holiday Cookie Platter

These cookies make a great addition to a holiday cookie tray alongside sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, and shortbread.

8. A Sweet Gift Box

Package these cookies in a festive tin or gift box for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays.

These simple serving ideas take your Hershey Kiss Cookies to the next level!

Storage Instructions

To keep your Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

At Room Temperature – Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate kisses from melting.
Refrigerator – If you need them to last a little longer, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer (Baked Cookies) – Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Freezer (Cookie Dough) – You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls (without the sugar coating). When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, roll in sugar, and bake as directed.

Pro Tip: If stacking cookies in a container, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per cookie (based on standard ingredients and portion sizes):

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 60mg
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 2g

Note: These values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions or different types of Hershey’s Kisses.

With proper storage and a good understanding of the nutrition, you can enjoy these cookies any time without worry!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling and baking.

2. Why did my cookies crack too much?

A slight crack is normal, but excessive cracking can happen if the dough is too cold or too dry. Make sure your dough is soft and pliable, and avoid overbaking.

3. Can I use a different type of Hershey’s Kiss?

Absolutely! Try dark chocolate, caramel-filled, almond, or peppermint Hershey’s Kisses for fun variations.

4. Do I have to roll the dough in sugar?

No, but it adds a subtle crunch and enhances the cookie’s appearance. If you prefer, you can skip this step or roll them in sprinkles for a festive touch.

5. How do I keep the chocolate kiss from melting too much?

Press the Hershey’s Kiss in gently right after baking, then let the cookies cool completely. If your kitchen is warm, you can place them in the fridge for a few minutes to help the chocolate set.

6. Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute one egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce.

7. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, both the baked cookies and raw dough freeze well for up to 3 months. Store in an airtight container and thaw at room temperature before serving.

8. How do I make these cookies extra soft?

To keep them soft, don’t overbake them. Also, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—the bread helps retain moisture.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Hershey Kiss Cookies are an absolute must-try! With their rich, chocolatey flavor and fun, festive look, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a party, or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe is sure to be a hit.