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This indulgent Secret Kisses Cookies recipe has been a family favorite for generations, combining soft buttery dough with a delightful hidden surprise of a chocolate kiss in the center. It is the perfect treat to share with loved ones or to brighten up any occasion.
- Unsalted butter: softened adds richness and softness to the cookies ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: creates sweetness and a light texture. Choose high-quality sugar for optimal results.
- Packed brown sugar: deepens the flavor and adds moisture. Opt for fresh brown sugar to avoid dryness.
- Large eggs: bind the ingredients together and improve texture make sure they are at room temperature.
- Vanilla extract: enhances overall flavor authentic vanilla extract makes the cookies stand out.
- All-purpose flour: forms the structure of the cookies sift if necessary to avoid lumps.
- Baking soda: helps the cookies rise and gives them their chewy texture.
- Salt: enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Chocolate chips: semi-sweet or milk chocolate based on taste for bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Chocolate kisses: unwrapped the star ingredient adding a delightful surprise element.
How To Make Secret Kisses Cookies
- Preheat the Oven:
- Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper which prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl beat softened butter granulated sugar and brown sugar on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until creamy and smooth. This step is crucial for a soft fluffy texture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract ensuring it is evenly blended. This builds a flavorful base.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl whisk together all-purpose flour baking soda and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to retain the cookie's tenderness.
- Mix in Chocolate Chips:
- Gently fold in chocolate chips with a spatula or wooden spoon for even distribution throughout the dough.
- Shape the Dough:
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon drop rounded dollops of dough onto the parchment-lined baking sheets spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden while the center remains slightly underbaked. They will set as they cool.
- Add the Chocolate Kiss:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press an unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie melting slightly from residual heat. Cool on the sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack.
Storage Tips
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet freeze until solid and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of brown sugar you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses. Reduce salt if using salted butter but the flavor may differ slightly. For a richer finish use dark chocolate kisses.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or warm alongside hot cocoa for a comforting treat. They pair delightfully with coffee or tea as an afternoon snack or dessert.
Cultural Context
These cookies are inspired by classic American thumbprint cookies but with a playful twist of hiding a chocolate kiss in each one. They are a holiday staple and often shared at family gatherings or as thoughtful gifts during festive celebrations.
So whip up a batch for your next gathering or as a cozy afternoon treat. These cookies will surely bring smiles with every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of chocolate works best for these cookies?
Both semi-sweet and milk chocolate kisses work great, depending on your personal preference. For a deeper flavor, try semi-sweet chocolate, or opt for milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.
- → Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop it into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake, let the dough slightly soften before baking as instructed.
- → How do I make sure the texture stays soft?
Be sure not to overbake the cookies. Take them out of the oven when the edges are golden, but the centers look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
- → What can I use instead of chocolate kisses?
Mini peanut butter cups, caramel-filled chocolates, or even a chocolate bark piece can make great substitutes for the chocolate kisses.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.