Mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and mint in a delightful treat. These cookies are perfect for festive occasions and are loved by all ages.
The combination of mint and chocolate creates a refreshing yet indulgent flavor profile. This makes them a favorite during the holiday season.
Baking these cookies is straightforward, even for beginners. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll have delicious cookies in no time.
History and Origin of Blossom Cookies
In 1957, Freda Smith of Gibsonburg, Ohio, crafted the first blossom cookie by topping a peanut butter cookie with a Hershey’s Kiss. This creation was her entry in the Pillsbury Bake-Off that year.
Although Smith’s peanut butter blossom didn’t win the grand prize, it gained significant popularity. The recipe was featured in various cookbooks, leading to widespread recognition.
Over time, bakers have introduced numerous variations to the original recipe. These include substituting the peanut butter base with other flavors and using different chocolate toppings. This adaptability has cemented the blossom cookie as a beloved treat in many households.
Ingredients Breakdown
Crafting mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies requires a blend of essential ingredients that contribute to their unique flavor and texture.
For the Cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- A few drops of green food coloring
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
For Topping:
- 24 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
The combination of unsalted butter and granulated sugar forms the creamy base of the dough. Adding both vanilla and peppermint extracts imparts a balanced flavor profile, with the peppermint providing a refreshing note. A touch of green food coloring gives the cookies their distinctive hue, making them visually appealing.
Incorporating all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda ensures the cookies achieve the desired structure and rise. The baking powder and baking soda act as leavening agents, resulting in a light and tender crumb.
Before baking, rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar adds a subtle crunch to the exterior. Once baked, topping each cookie with a chocolate kiss candy introduces a rich, chocolaty center that complements the minty dough perfectly.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Creating mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies is simple and rewarding. Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked cookies.
1. Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Then, mix in green food coloring for a vibrant hue.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft cookie dough forms.
2. Shape & Bake the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each one in granulated sugar.
- Arrange them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set but not browned.
3. Add the Chocolate Kiss
- Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- The residual heat will slightly soften the chocolate, helping it set as the cookies cool.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
- Store them in an airtight container for up to five days.
With these steps, you’ll create irresistibly soft and minty chocolate cookies perfect for any occasion!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cookies
Achieving the perfect mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies involves attention to detail and a few expert tips.
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
- Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
- Use proper measuring tools to maintain the correct flour to butter ratio.
3. Chill the Dough if Necessary
- If the dough is too soft, chill it for 15-20 minutes to make shaping easier.
4. Monitor Baking Time Closely
- Bake until cookies are set but not browned to keep them soft.
5. Press Chocolate Kisses Gently
- Apply gentle pressure when adding the chocolate kiss to prevent cracking.
6. Cool Cookies Properly
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Variations and Substitutions
Exploring variations and substitutions can add a delightful twist to your mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies.
Flavor Variations:
- Chocolate Base: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Citrus Mint: Add a hint of orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note.
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and ensure the chocolate kisses are dairy-free.
Alternative Toppings:
- Dark Chocolate Squares: Substitute chocolate kisses with small pieces of dark chocolate for a less sweet option.
- Mint Candies: Top each cookie with a mint candy for an extra burst of mint flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies are versatile treats suitable for various occasions.
Serving Suggestions:
- Festive Gatherings: Arrange these cookies on a decorative platter for holiday parties. Their vibrant green hue and chocolate center make them a visual delight.
- Gifting: Place the cookies in a decorative tin lined with parchment paper. This presentation makes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Pairings:
- Beverages: Enjoy these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a tall glass of cold milk. The creamy beverages complement the minty chocolate flavor.
- Ice Cream: Serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storing and Preserving Freshness
To maintain the freshness of your mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies, proper storage is essential.
Short-Term Storage:
- Cooling: After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
- Airtight Container: Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. This helps retain their softness and flavor.
- Bread Slice Trick: To keep cookies soft, add a slice of fresh bread to the container. The bread provides moisture, preventing the cookies from becoming stale.
Long-Term Storage:
- Freezing: For extended preservation, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature. This ensures they regain their original texture and taste.
By following these storage methods, your mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies will remain fresh and delicious for days to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about mint chocolate kiss blossom cookies:
1. Can I use natural mint leaves instead of extract?
Using mint leaves can impart a subtle flavor, but peppermint extract provides a more concentrated and consistent mint taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, finely chop fresh mint leaves and incorporate them into the dough. However, the intensity may vary.
2. What if I can’t find mint-flavored chocolate kisses?
If mint-flavored chocolate kisses are unavailable, opt for regular chocolate kisses and add a drop more peppermint extract to the dough. Alternatively, place a small piece of mint chocolate or a mint candy in the center of each cookie immediately after baking.
3. How do I prevent the chocolate kiss from melting too much?
To maintain the shape of the chocolate kiss, allow the cookies to cool for about 1-2 minutes after baking before gently pressing the kiss into the center. This method prevents excessive melting.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Before baking, let the dough sit at room temperature until it’s pliable enough to shape. This approach allows for flexibility in your baking schedule.
5. Are there any nut-free variations?
Absolutely! The traditional mint chocolate kiss blossom cookie recipe is nut-free. Ensure that all ingredients, including chocolate kisses, are free from any nut contamination. Always check labels if you’re baking for someone with a nut allergy.
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The Best Mint Chocolate Kiss Blossom Cookies – Soft, Minty & Irresistible
Description
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp peppermint extract
Green food coloring (a few drops)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking soda
For Topping:
24 chocolate kiss candies (unwrapped)
Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in egg, vanilla, peppermint extract, and green food coloring until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat in granulated sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set but not browned.
- Remove cookies from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let cool completely to allow the chocolate to set.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
