When it comes to holiday baking or simply treating your family on a cozy evening, few treats can beat the charm of Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies. Picture this: a buttery, crumbly cookie with a luscious chocolate center that just melts in your mouth. The wafer-like exterior gives way to a rich explosion of chocolate that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. Fun fact: these cookies are often helped along by little hands in the kitchen – everyone loves to make their own thumbprint! Whether you’re lining them up on a festive gathering table or serving them as an after-school snack, these cookies are pure joy. They make an excellent alternative to more complex bake shop goods, much like my popular No-Bake Cheesecake, which simplifies dessert for busy families!
What are Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies?
So, what’s in a name, right? Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies are like the best of both worlds: your classic cookie with a delicious twist at the center. But have you ever wondered why one would put a thumbprint in a cookie? It does create a perfect little dimple for that divine chocolate kiss. They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but I think that applies to everyone! Who can resist that adorable cookie with its signature ‘thumbprint’? Sounds enticing? This is truly the treat you’ll want to bake alongside your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies
Let’s break it down—you’ll adore Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies for so many reasons! First off, they are the perfect dessert to bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces or elevate your family gatherings. The sweet, crunchy exterior combined with the soft, chocolatey center creates a delightful mouthfeel that leaves a lasting impression. Second, preparing these cookies is incredibly budget-friendly compared to store-bought emissions. There’s something gratifying about transforming simple ingredients from your pantry into a delightful treat. And finally, let’s not forget the toppings. You can sprinkle some crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles to add an extra burst of flavor! Trust me, once you dive into this recipe, you’ll want to make these cookies your new go-to!
How to Make Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies
Quick Overview
Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies are a joy to make, even for those who might feel intimidated in the kitchen. The delightful crispy yet tender texture combined with the rich chocolate center creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. The total preparation time is around 20 minutes, with an additional baking time of about 10-12 minutes. In just half an hour, you can create delicious cookies that are sure to impress!
Key Ingredients for Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s halal)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg (halal)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (halal)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)
- Optional toppings: Crushed nuts or sprinkles
Prep notes: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies do not stick.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture until combined. The dough will be soft but manageable.
4. Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Once the balls are formed, use your thumb (or any small object) to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
5. Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the center is still soft.
6. Add the Hershey Kisses
Once out of the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Top Tips for Perfecting Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more caramel-like flavor. Almond or coconut flour can be used in part to create a gluten-free version, just make adjustments in the quantity.
- Timing: Watches the cookies closely toward the end of baking time. Overbaking could lead to a dry cookie which is less enjoyable.
- Common Mistakes: One of the most frequent mishaps is too much flour in the dough—make sure to spoon the flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly to prevent packing it down.
Storing and Reheating Tips
For optimal freshness, store your Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to enjoy them later, you can freeze them; they will stay good for up to three months. For reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that freshly baked softness.
There you have it—your guide to preparing delicious Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies! Get baking, share with your loved ones, and enjoy the smiles that follow!
Hershey Kiss Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture until combined.
- Scoop the dough and roll it into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft.
- Immediately press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Leave a Reply