There’s something delightful about creating festive treats, especially when they come together in a flash. This holiday season, I found myself yearning for a sweet that captures the joy of Christmas without the fuss—enter the Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss! Inspired by the lovable, green character, these cookies are not only charming but also a delightful surprise for anyone who bites into one.
Imagine the soft, warm bite of cookie dough surrounding a melted Hershey’s Kiss, topped with a cheerful heart-shaped sprinkle. Each cookie is a treat for the senses, sending a wave of nostalgia and sweetness that reminds me of the cozy moments spent baking in the kitchen with family.
With just a few simple ingredients—and only 27 minutes from start to finish—these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or just quiet evenings at home. If you’re looking to brighten someone’s day or make your dessert table a little more festive, join me in whipping up these magical Grinch-inspired delights!
Why Are Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss So Special?
Delightful, festive appearance: The vibrant green color and heart-shaped sprinkles make these cookies a true eye-catcher for any holiday gathering.
Melty chocolate surprise: Each bite reveals a gooey Hershey’s Kiss tucked within the soft cookie—pure bliss!
Quick and simple: With only 27 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for last-minute holiday treats.
Kid-friendly fun: This recipe is a fantastic way to involve little bakers in the kitchen, making sweet memories together.
For added inspiration, check out our favorite holiday cookie recipes that make the season extra special!
Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss Ingredients
• For a fun twist, try different sprinkles!
- 18 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped – choose milk chocolate for a rich flavor.
- 18 large heart-shaped candy sprinkles – add a festive touch to your cookies.
- 17.5 ounces sugar cookie mix – pre-made for quick baking.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – helps achieve the perfect cookie consistency.
- 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together for softness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – ensures a rich, buttery taste.
- 3/4 teaspoon green gel food coloring – makes your cookies radiantly festive.
These Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire!
How to Make Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or line it with paper liners. This sets the stage for cookie perfection!
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Whisk together the large egg and green gel food coloring in a small bowl until fully blended. This vibrant color will bring out the Grinch spirit in your cookies!
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Blend the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and egg mixture in a large bowl using a handheld mixer on low speed for 2 to 3 minutes until a thick dough forms. The dough should feel soft and pliable, ready for shaping!
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Scoop 1½ tablespoons of dough using a 1½-inch cookie scoop. Flatten each scoop into a 3-inch disc, then place a Hershey’s Kiss upright in the center. Wrap the sides around the candy and shape it into a ball. This step adds the sweet surprise inside each cookie!
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Arrange the dough balls in the prepared muffin pan, keeping the Hershey’s Kisses upright. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the dough is set but not browned, allowing the magic to happen!
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Top each cookie by immediately placing one heart candy sprinkle offset to the right from the center, adding a pop of festive cheer. Let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. The perfect finish!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, place cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week—just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying these festive Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss!
Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual cookies for about 10 seconds, just until they’re slightly warm and the chocolate is melty.
Expert Tips for Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss
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Measure Properly: Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the right cookie texture. An off-measurement can lead to dry or overly sticky dough.
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature. Cold butter won’t blend well, affecting the final softness of your Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss.
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Chill Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies that hold their shape, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading and promotes softer centers.
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Mind the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Since oven temperatures can vary, check them a minute or two before the 10-minute mark to avoid over-baking.
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Fun Variations: Try incorporating festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the holiday spirit!
Make Ahead Options
These Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and shaping the cookie balls. Once formed, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to bake, arrange them in the muffin pan and add the Hershey’s Kisses, then bake as directed; they’ll come out just as delicious and festive! This make-ahead strategy allows you to enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort, leaving you more time for holiday cheer.
What to Serve with Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss?
These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing and pair beautifully with a variety of festive treats and drinks.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy goodness of hot cocoa perfectly complements the sweetness of these cookies, creating a cozy combo.
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Milk: A classic pairing! The refreshing taste of cold milk balances the rich chocolate filling and adds a nostalgic touch.
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Fruit Platter: Bright berries or citrus slices add a refreshing contrast, bringing a burst of color and a hint of tartness to your dessert spread.
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Cheesecake Bites: Creamy cheesecake bites make for an indulgent duet, their richness beautifully balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or green mint chocolate chip ice cream offers a creamy, cool complement that pairs wonderfully with the cookies.
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Holiday Punch: Create a festive beverage with a fruit-infused punch, adding a bubbly twist that your guests will adore.
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Pecan Pie Bars: The crunchy sweetness of pecan pie bars creates a delightful textural contrast, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
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Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts provides a savory crunchy option, contrasting the soft sweetness of the cookies and adding a flavorful bite.
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee, whether black or with cream, enhances the flavors of chocolate while providing a comforting warmth for colder evenings.
With these pairings, your cookie spread will be nothing short of festive magic!
Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss Variations
Feel free to get creative with your cookies—there’s a world of flavor just waiting to be explored!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the sugar cookie mix with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and a delightful texture!
- Peppermint Twist: Mix in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor that enhances the festive cheer.
- Nutty Surprise: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Baking Spice: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to evoke the cozy warmth of the holiday season in every bite.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Swap the heart sprinkles for your favorite holiday-themed sprinkles, creating a whimsical look that’s bound to delight!
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate kisses to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy while still enjoying the yum!
- Fruity Fusion: Add a handful of dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cookie!
Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss?
Absolutely! Choosing the right ingredients is key to making delightful cookies. For the Hershey’s Kisses, look for those that are fresh and unblemished—avoid any with dark spots or signs of damage. For the gel food coloring, ensure it’s high-quality so your cookies shine vibrantly without compromising on taste.
How should I store Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss once baked?
You can store these sweet treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they can keep for about a week. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for that perfect soft bite!
Can I freeze Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss?
Yes, indeed! To freeze them, first, arrange the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until firm. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and savor the warmth!
What do I do if my cookie dough feels too sticky?
Very common! If your cookie dough seems too sticky to handle, consider adding a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tougher cookies. If in doubt, chill the dough for 30 minutes; it often helps firm it up for easier shaping.
Are there any dietary considerations for Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. For a dairy-free version, you can use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate candies. Just check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they meet specific dietary needs for allergies or other concerns.
What if I want to make these cookies with my kids?
Kid-friendly fun is the best part of baking together! Just ensure to supervise them when handling the oven and any small kitchen tools. You might also involve them in the decorating stage—let them choose their favorite sprinkles or even add extra toppings like mini marshmallows or drizzle chocolate on top for added creativity!
Festive Grinch Cookies Hershey Kiss: Easy Holiday Treats!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or line it with paper liners.
- Whisk together the large egg and green gel food coloring in a small bowl until fully blended.
- Blend the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and egg mixture in a large bowl using a handheld mixer on low speed for 2 to 3 minutes until a thick dough forms.
- Scoop 1½ tablespoons of dough using a 1½-inch cookie scoop. Flatten each scoop into a 3-inch disc, then place a Hershey's Kiss upright in the center. Wrap the sides around the candy and shape it into a ball.
- Arrange the dough balls in the prepared muffin pan, keeping the Hershey's Kisses upright. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the dough is set but not browned.
- Top each cookie by immediately placing one heart candy sprinkle offset to the right from the center. Let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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