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Introduction to Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
The holiday season brings with it a surge of joy and warmth, often represented through festive gatherings and sweet treats. One delightful addition to any holiday dessert table is the Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies. Imagine soft, chewy cookies adorned with a cute green hue and topped with a Hershey’s Kiss! These cookies aren’t just delicious; they capture the spirit of the Grinch, making them a perfect treat for Christmas.
Have you ever wondered how a simple recipe can create such a whimsical experience? The Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies are an ideal mix of joyous flavors, easy preparation, and a festive twist that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring out your holiday spirit. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create these cookies that are perfect for sharing with loved ones or giving away as delightful gifts.
This recipe stands out because it beautifully blends the traditional cookie format with a unique presentation and playful colors. The green gel food coloring adds a holiday touch reminiscent of the Grinch himself, while the heart-shaped sprinkles add a bit of charm. Beyond their visual appeal, these cookies promise to evoke happiness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a quiet evening with family, these cookies are sure to delight young and old alike.
Key Benefits of Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: Requires minimal baking skills, making it perfect for beginners.
- Festively Fun: Bright green cookies add cheer to any holiday spread.
- Deliciously Sweet: The perfect blend of sugar cookie and chocolate provides a satisfying treat.
- Customizable Design: Adapt the colors and sprinkles for various holidays.
- Great for Gifting: Attractive cookies make wonderful gifts for friends and family.
- Batch-Friendly: Easy to make in large quantities for parties or events.
What Makes It Stand Out
The Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies are not your average cookie; they offer a unique combination of whimsical presentation and delightful taste. They harness the cheerful essence of the holiday season while indulging your craving for sweetness. You can easily customize these cookies to suit different occasions. For instance, swapping the green food coloring with red can create a lovely Valentine’s treat.
This recipe is also versatile, making it an all-year-round favorite for festivities beyond Christmas. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or a simple family gathering, these cookies serve as a fun and decorative dessert.
Ingredients for Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Complete Ingredient List with Measurements
- 17.5 ounces sugar cookie mix
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 teaspoon green gel food coloring
- 18 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
- 18 large heart-shaped candy sprinkles
Substitutes and Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some suggestions for substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to cater to those with gluten intolerance.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons of water rested for a few minutes) as an alternative for the egg.
How to Make Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Measure out the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, large egg, unsalted butter, green gel food coloring, and your Hershey’s Kisses. It’s important to have everything at room temperature for best results.
Step 2 – Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your mini muffin pan. Lightly spray it with baking spray or line with paper liners to make for easy removal later.
Step 3 – Mix the Egg and Food Coloring
In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and green gel food coloring thoroughly. Make sure the mixture is uniform in color so that every cookie gets the bright green hue.
Step 4 – Create the Dough Base
In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, and unsalted butter. Use a handheld mixer on low speed, adding the green egg mixture. Mix for 2 to 3 minutes until a thick dough forms.
Step 5 – Portion the Dough
Using a 1½-inch cookie scoop, take 1½ tablespoons of dough and flatten it into a 3-inch disc. This helps give it an even shape around the Hershey’s Kiss later.
Step 6 – Add the Hershey’s Kiss
Place a Hershey’s Kiss upright in the center of the flattened dough. Carefully wrap the sides around the candy and shape the dough into a ball, ensuring the candy remains upright.
Step 7 – Arrange in the Pan
Place the dough balls into the prepared mini muffin pan, ensuring that the Hershey’s Kisses stay upright. They will rise slightly while baking.
Step 8 – Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. They should be set but not browned. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.
Step 9 – Add the Sprinkles
Once out of the oven, immediately place one heart-shaped candy sprinkle offset to the right of the center atop each cookie. The warmth will help the sprinkle adhere to the cookie.
Step 10 – Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up for a delightful bite.
Serving Suggestions for Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Best Occasions to Serve This Dish
These festive cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, and Santa’s cookie plate. They can brighten up a cookie exchange or serve as delightful gifts. Their playful design also makes them a fun addition to birthday parties or themed events.
What to Serve With It
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of hot cocoa. They also complement coffee beautifully, making them a must for brunch. For a complete dessert table, consider serving a variety of holiday treats alongside them, such as peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies.
How to Store Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies Properly
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to one week if kept sealed. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Reheating and Freezing Tips
To reheat cookies, place them on a plate and microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to warm them up. If you’re freezing the cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips & Tricks for Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Mistakes to Avoid
1 – Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix only until combined.
2 – Not Cooling the Cookies: Allowing cookies to cool helps them set properly.
3 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easy mixing.
4 – Neglecting the Sprinkles: Add the sprinkles immediately after baking while the cookies are warm for best results.
5 – Baking Too Long: Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Extra Tips for Better Results
- Consider adding different types of sprinkles for a more festive twist.
- Add a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- For a chocolate twist, mix in some chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
Recipe Variations of Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Creative Twists
- Red Velvet Version: Swap the green coloring for red and use white chocolate Kisses for a valentine’s themed cookie.
- Minty Delight: Add mint extract to the dough for a refreshing peppermint flavor, perfect for winter.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed nuts for added texture and flavor surprise.
Dietary Adjustments
Making these cookies suitable for different dietary needs is easy. For a vegan version, simply use plant-based butter and a flax egg. Additionally, for those who avoid gluten, a gluten-free baking mix can do just the trick.
Conclusion about Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies are a delightful addition to any festive gathering. Their cheerful color and whimsical design make them not just treats, but also a fun activity, especially for families looking to celebrate the holidays together. From the delicious taste that combines a sweet cookie base and rich chocolate to their vibrant appearance that brings joy, these cookies truly encompass the spirit of the season.
Try this recipe to fill your home with holiday cheer, and share with family and friends for that extra touch of love. Whether used as gifts or enjoyed together around the family table, the Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies are sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday celebrations.
FAQs about Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
How long can I store Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies?
You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Can I freeze Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Can I use a different type of cookie mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the sugar cookie mix with other flavored mixes for a unique twist.
What if I don’t have green food coloring?
You can omit it for a traditional color or use any other food coloring you have on hand.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and store the cookie dough in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use smaller muffin pans?
Using a mini muffin pan is ideal, but you can adjust the size and baking time by using standard muffin pans.
What if I want to omit the sprinkles?
You can certainly create the cookies without sprinkles. They will still be delicious and festive.
What’s the best way to add flavor?
Consider adding extracts like vanilla or almond for an extra flavor boost in the cookie dough.
Will these cookies stay soft?
Yes! If stored properly in an airtight container, they should remain soft and chewy.
Can I customize the chocolate?
Of course! Feel free to use any type of chocolate candy instead of Hershey’s Kisses for a different twist.
Grinch Hershey Kiss Cookies
Ingrédients
For the Cookie Dough
- 17.5 ounces sugar cookie mix
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg Room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Room temperature
- 3/4 teaspoon green gel food coloring
For Topping
- 18 Hershey’s Kisses Unwrapped
- 18 large heart-shaped candy sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and measure out the sugar cookie mix, flour, egg, butter, food coloring, and Hershey’s Kisses.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare your mini muffin pan by lightly spraying it with baking spray or lining with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and green gel food coloring until uniform in color.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, and unsalted butter. Use a handheld mixer on low speed to mix in the green egg mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until a thick dough forms.
Shaping the Cookies
- Using a 1½-inch cookie scoop, take 1½ tablespoons of dough and flatten it into a 3-inch disc.
- Place a Hershey’s Kiss upright in the center of the flattened dough and wrap the sides around the candy, shaping the dough into a ball.
- Arrange the dough balls in the prepared mini muffin pan, ensuring each Hershey’s Kiss remains upright.
Baking
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Watch closely to avoid overbaking; they should be set but not browned.
- Immediately add one heart-shaped candy sprinkle on top of each cookie after removing from the oven.
- Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.