Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a timeless favorite that combines soft, chewy peanut butter cookies with the irresistible addition of a milk chocolate kiss pressed into the center. They’re sweet, nutty, and delightfully simple to make—perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or everyday treats that bring back sweet childhood memories.

ingredients

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

all-purpose flour
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
granulated sugar
light brown sugar
creamy peanut butter
egg
vanilla extract
milk
Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add peanut butter, egg, milk, and vanilla; mix until smooth.

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined.

Scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place on the baking sheet.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Remove from oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.

Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8–10 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Swap in dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly versions.
Make mini versions using bite-size kisses and smaller dough balls.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature before serving.
Do not microwave to reheat, as the chocolate may melt unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use creamy, no-stir peanut butter for consistent results.

Why press the kiss in after baking?
Pressing them in right after baking prevents melting and helps the chocolate hold its shape.

Can I chill the dough first?
Yes, chilling for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for later use.

Do these cookies stay soft?
Yes, they stay soft and chewy, especially when stored properly.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this recipe scales well for larger batches.

What type of sugar is best for rolling?
Granulated sugar gives a classic, slightly crisp coating.

Can I use a cookie scoop?
Yes, it helps with even portioning and shaping.

Do I need to flatten the dough balls?
No, they spread slightly on their own and stay puffed and soft.

Can I skip the kiss?
Yes, but then they become classic peanut butter cookies—still delicious!

Conclusion

Homemade Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat with just the right balance of nutty, sweet, and chocolaty goodness. Easy to make and even easier to love, these cookies are a must-have for your baking rotation—perfect with a glass of milk, a hot coffee, or straight off the baking tray.