Homemade Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies

Homemade Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a beloved classic—a soft, chewy peanut butter cookie topped with a perfectly placed chocolate kiss. These nostalgic treats combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the creamy sweetness of milk chocolate, making them an irresistible favorite for cookie trays, holiday baking, or anytime cravings strike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are the perfect blend of salty-sweet, soft and melty. They’re easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, and the chocolate kiss on top adds a fun, iconic touch. Whether you’re baking them for a party, gifting them during the holidays, or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies are always a hit with kids and adults alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Creamy peanut butter
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chocolate kisses (unwrapped)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar if desired for a sparkly finish.
6. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and just set.
8. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies

Variations

• Crunchy peanut butter: Use for added texture and crunch.
• Flavored kisses: Try with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or caramel-filled kisses.
• Mini cookies: Make smaller dough balls and use mini kisses or chocolate chips.
• Peanut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as an alternative.
• Chocolate base: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

To freeze, store baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

You can also freeze unbaked dough balls (without kisses), then bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter. Natural varieties may make the dough too oily or crumbly.

Do the kisses melt when pressed into the cookies?

They will soften but hold their shape as the cookies cool. Avoid moving them while warm to keep them intact.

Can I skip rolling the dough in sugar?

Yes, but the sugar adds a nice sparkle and slight crunch on the outside.

Can I chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading and enhance flavor.

Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely! They pack and ship well and are always a favorite on holiday cookie trays.

What if I don’t have a mixer?

You can mix by hand with a sturdy spoon—just be sure to cream the butter and sugars thoroughly.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, for a bit of texture and nutty crunch.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

Can I use mini chocolate kisses?

Yes! They’re perfect for smaller cookies or bite-sized versions.

What’s the best way to store them?

In a sealed container at room temperature. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.

Conclusion

Homemade Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a timeless treat that never goes out of style. With their soft peanut butter base and classic chocolate center, they’re simple to make and absolutely delightful to eat. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just for fun, these cookies are always a sweet success.

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