There’s something about the warm aroma of peanut butter baking that instantly pulls you into a quieter, cozier moment. These cookies carry that feeling perfectly—soft, chewy, and just sweet enough, with a little chocolate surprise waiting right on top. I remember one afternoon when I was halfway through flattening the dough balls, distracted by a phone call that dragged on longer than I thought. The cookies baked a bit unevenly because of the timing, but pressing a Hershey’s Kiss into each one right out of the oven somehow made up for it. The chocolate melted just enough to stick but not lose its shape, creating this quirky contrast of textures that made me smile. It wasn’t flawless, but it felt like a small, imperfect victory in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love It
– The blend of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate is classic and comforting, but not overly rich.
– These cookies come together quickly—no complicated steps or fancy tools needed.
– Soft and chewy texture that holds up well, though they’re best enjoyed fresh; they don’t crisp up much if left too long.
– It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No fuss, just satisfying bites.
– You might find yourself sneaking one or two before they’ve even cooled, like I did, despite knowing they’re easier to handle once set.
If you’re worried about the cookies sticking or losing their shape, don’t fret too much. A gentle touch and a lined baking sheet usually do the trick.
Print
Peanut Butter Cookies with Kisses
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Classic peanut butter cookies topped with a Hershey’s Kiss for a perfect combination of salty and sweet. These cookies are soft, chewy, and easy to make, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking soda
24 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and baking soda until well combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Use a fork to gently flatten each ball and create a crisscross pattern on top.
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until they are set but still soft in the center.
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Kitchen Notes
This recipe doesn’t call for any special equipment, just a basic mixing bowl and a baking sheet, so it’s pretty approachable even if your kitchen is on the minimalist side. Serving these cookies alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea can turn a quick snack into a small ritual. I’ve tried swapping out the Hershey’s Kisses for mini peanut butter cups, which add an extra hit of chocolate and peanut flavor, though they melt a bit differently. For a slightly crunchier edge, you could bake the cookies a minute or two longer, but watch them closely—overbaking dries them out fast. Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking might sound odd, but it brings out the peanut flavor in a surprising way. I haven’t tested it extensively, but it’s worth a try if you like a bit of contrast.
FAQ
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: You can, though the texture will be a bit different—more rustic and nutty. It might affect how smooth the dough is but won’t ruin the cookies.
Q: How should I store leftover cookies?
A: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Freezing is also an option if you want to keep them longer.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, refrigerating the dough for a few hours before baking can make it easier to handle and can deepen the flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have Hershey’s Kisses?
A: Chocolate chips or small chunks of chocolate can work, but press them in right after baking so they stick well.
Ready to bake and enjoy? Grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself to a batch of these comforting peanut butter cookies with kisses. You won’t regret it.