Name: Hershey's Hugs and Kisses Cookies for Joyful Holiday Baking
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened); 1 cup Sugar (Granulated); 4 large Egg Yolks; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Or almond extract); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/3 cup Cocoa Powder (High quality recommended); 1/2 cup Sanding Sugar (Or coarse sugar); 24 pieces Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Chocolates (Unwrapped)

The scent of freshly baked cookies curling through the kitchen instantly brings back memories of holiday gatherings and family traditions. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies, which are not only whimsical but also incredibly simple to whip up, requiring no chilling of the dough. These delightful treats pack a delicious punch with a fun combination of vanilla and cocoa, then topped with iconic Hershey chocolates for a sweet finish. Perfect for gifting or serving at your next holiday soiree, they’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to keep the little ones involved in the baking fun! Would you like to learn how to make these adorable cookies that are perfectly marbled and dusted with sparkling sugar? Let’s dive in!

Why Make Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires no chilling, allowing you to create delightful cookies in no time!

Fun Design: The marbled effect combined with a sprinkling of sanding sugar creates a visual treat that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers a rich blend of cocoa and creamy sweetness from the Hershey’s chocolates, making them irresistible.

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the chocolate types or add some nuts for a personalized touch!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. For another delightful sweet treat, check out my Valentine Ganache Cookies!

Family-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the baking process; they’ll love rolling the dough and adding the chocolate on top!

Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Softened for easy mixing, it provides richness and moisture to the cookies.
Sugar – Granulated sugar works best for the right texture and sweetness in these delightful cookies.
Egg Yolks – They add richness and help bind the dough, making each cookie perfectly chewy.
Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that elevates the taste; you can substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure, it forms the cookie base and gives them that perfect chewiness.
Cocoa Powder – This adds a deep chocolate flavor; using high-quality cocoa will yield the best results.

For the Coating

Sanding Sugar – This sparkling sugar provides a crunchy texture and a lovely finish, though coarse sugar works as a substitute if needed.

For the Topping

Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Chocolates – A signature ingredient that adds creamy texture and irresistible sweetness to these holiday cookies, making them truly special.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. The smell of the heating oven will get you excited for the delicious batch of Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies to come!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air, giving the cookies their delightful texture. The mixture should appear pale and creamy before you proceed.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Next, add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract, beating them into the buttery mixture until fully combined and smooth. This will enrich the dough and enhance the flavor of your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well blended.

Step 4: Mix in Flour
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a crumbly dough forms. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; the dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together. Once it reaches this consistency, set aside half of the dough in a separate bowl.

Step 5: Incorporate Cocoa Powder
Take the reserved half of the dough and add cocoa powder to it, mixing until it is fully incorporated. This will create the chocolate portion of your dough. The rich, dark color signals that you’ve successfully combined the cocoa, setting you up for that delicious marbling effect later on.

Step 6: Shape the Dough
Divide each dough portion into smaller sections and roll them into 12-inch logs, alternating colors to create a marbled effect. Aim for a thick and consistent shape so that your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies have a beautiful swirl once baked. This mesmerizing design will make every cookie stand out on your dessert table.

Step 7: Create a Spiraled Log
Carefully combine the two colored logs by twisting them together to form a 20-inch spiraled log. Cut the log into 1-inch sections, producing equal-sized pieces. This step is essential to ensure that your cookies bake evenly and maintain a consistent shape, with each piece showcasing the stunning marbled effect.

Step 8: Roll in Sanding Sugar
Roll each cookie ball in sanding sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated for a delightful crunch when baked. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. The sparkle from the sugar will create a festive look that adds visual appeal to your holiday treats.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until they look set but not overly brown. The edges will firm up while the centers remain soft, offering the perfect chewy texture. As the cookies bake, the aroma filling your kitchen will surely add to the excitement of this homemade delight.

Step 10: Add Hershey’s Chocolates
Once the cookies are out of the oven, immediately press an unwrapped Hershey’s Hug or Kiss into the center of each cookie. The warm cookies will slightly melt the chocolates, creating a delectable combination. Allow them to rest for 3-5 minutes where the chocolate will set just enough for easy handling.

Step 11: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which will ensure they reach that perfect texture. Once completely cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed. The combination of flavors and textures in your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies

Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing. This allows for better incorporation of sugar, leading to a light texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining flour, mix just until a crumbly dough forms to prevent tough cookies. It’s okay if the dough seems slightly crumbly; that’s ideal for your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies!
Temperature Matters: Using room temperature chocolate kisses will prevent them from melting too much during baking; this keeps their shape intact for a perfect touch on top.
Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool slightly after baking; they finish setting up, and this enhances the flavors, making every bite even better.
Baking Consistency: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Removing them while the centers are still soft guarantees that chewy texture everyone loves!
Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with different Hershey’s chocolates or add nuts. Personal touches can make your cookies even more delightful!

What to Serve with Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies

When you’re gathering around with loved ones, creating the perfect spread to enjoy with these delightful cookies can elevate your holiday experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness complements the sweet cookies, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that pleases every palate.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This fruity beverage offers a bubbly sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chewy cookies while adding a festive touch to your gathering.
Homemade Chocolate Milk: Indulge your sweet tooth with a glass of rich chocolate milk; it enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cookies for a nostalgic treat.
Fresh Berry Salad: A vibrant medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and a tangy pop that cuts through the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses such as Brie or goat cheese adds texture and flavor that pairs well with the sweet and creamy chocolate on your cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm cookies, making every bite a little piece of heaven.
Decadent Hot Chocolate: Rich and cozy, a mug of hot chocolate offers the ultimate comfort when enjoyed alongside your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies.
Nuts & Dried Fruits Mix: This earthy combination adds crunch and chewiness, providing a rustic twist to your dessert spread.

Each of these pairings brings its own unique flair to the table, making your holiday festivities even more special!

Make Ahead Options

These Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy baking without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain quality, avoid mixing in the chocolates until you are ready to bake; waiting ensures they stay perfectly melty. When it’s time to bake, just roll the chilled dough into balls, roll them in sanding sugar, and follow the baking steps. You’ll have fresh, delightful cookies ready in no time, preserving their chewy texture and rich flavors just as if they were baked that day!

Variations & Substitutions for Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these cookies to suit your taste buds!

Chocolate Varieties: Use flavored Hershey’s chocolates like caramel-filled Kisses for a delicious twist. Mixing it up can lead to delightful surprises!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added flavor and texture. The nutty crunch wonderfully complements the chocolatey goodness.
Almond Extract: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a delightful aroma and unique taste that’s sure to impress. Almond and chocolate make a classic combination!
Holiday Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles on top of the cookies instead of sanding sugar for a fun pop of color. It’s a great way to brighten up your holiday gatherings.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor.
Marble Effect: For extra visual appeal, use colored cocoa powder in half the dough to create an even more vibrant marbled cookie! Baking is all about fun, so play around with colors!
Cookie Size: Form smaller cookie balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at holiday parties. Mini cookies are always a hit and perfect for a delightful presentation!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising flavor kick. The spice enhances the chocolate, making each bite a delightful experience.

With all these variations, you’re sure to find the perfect take on these Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies. For more sweet treats, don’t forget to check out my scrumptious Tiramisu Sandwich Cookies or my warm and chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Storage Tips for Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for optimal freshness. Keep them sealed to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, store them in the fridge. They can last up to a week, but the flavor may diminish slightly over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a food-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back the delightful warmth, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will refresh their soft and chewy texture—perfect for reliving the cookie bliss!

Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting butter, ensure it’s slightly softened but not melted, as this will help in easier mixing. For the best flavor, use fresh egg yolks and good-quality cocoa powder. If you’re substituting extracts, make sure they’re also fresh for optimal taste.

How should I store the cookies for maximum freshness?
You can store your Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It’s best to keep them sealed well to maintain their delightful chewy texture. If you prefer to refrigerate them, they can last about a week, but the freshness may vary.

Can I freeze these cookies for later enjoyment?
Certainly! For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a food-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, layer them between sheets of parchment paper, and then place them in an airtight bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours.

What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly?
If you find your cookie dough is crumbly, it might be due to insufficient moisture. You can add a tiny bit of milk (1 teaspoon at a time) and mix gently until the dough holds together better. Remember not to overmix, as that can lead to tough cookies.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies contain common allergens such as gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter). If you’re making them for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter alternatives. Always check the ingredient labels of chocolates for potential allergens, especially when serving to children or guests.

Can I substitute the Hershey’s Hugs and Kisses with other chocolates?
Very! You can switch up the toppings using different types of Hershey’s chocolates or even flavored chocolates for a unique twist. The key is to choose chocolates that will melt nicely so they complement the cookies without overwhelming them. Adaptability is half the joy of baking!