Some afternoons just sneak up on you, the kind where the day feels too long but your energy dips just enough to need a little lift. That’s when these Peanut Butter Hershey Kiss Cookies come into play. They’re not fancy or complicated, but they hit the spot with that familiar blend of creamy peanut butter and melty chocolate that somehow makes everything a bit better.
I remember one afternoon last week, trying to focus on a pile of work but my mind kept drifting to the kitchen. I was halfway through a cup of coffee when the idea struck—I needed something quick and satisfying. I threw together this simple mix, not even sure if the cookies would hold their shape perfectly, and popped them in the oven. The smell that filled the air was like a warm hug, peanut butter and sugar mingling with that gentle hint of chocolate from the Hershey’s Kisses I tucked on top. By the time I took the first bite, soft and chewy with just enough sweetness, I was already planning when I’d make them again—probably sooner than later.
Sometimes, it’s those little kitchen wins that remind you to slow down, even if just for a few minutes. And these cookies? They’re just right for that.
Why You’ll Love It
- Soft, chewy texture that’s comforting and satisfying without being overly sweet.
- The peanut butter and chocolate combo is a classic, but here it’s simple and approachable.
- They come together quickly — which means you can start enjoying them in under half an hour.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No fuss, no complicated steps, just good cookies.
- Because they’re straightforward, you might find yourself wanting to experiment with different chocolates or nut butters, though I haven’t tested all of those yet.
These cookies aren’t going to win awards for complexity, but they do a fantastic job at making a quick break feel special.
PrintPeanut Butter Hershey Kiss Cookies
Classic peanut butter cookies topped with a Hershey’s Kiss, combining the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a soft, chewy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
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 a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and baking soda. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
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, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Kitchen Notes: I usually use a baking sheet lined with parchment, which helps these cookies slide off easily once they’ve cooled. They’re great on their own, but I’ve also enjoyed them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea when I need a little afternoon pick-me-up. Sometimes I swap the classic Hershey’s Kisses for dark chocolate ones, which adds a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking adds a subtle twist, though it’s a bit of a gamble if you’re not into salty-sweet combos. I haven’t tried adding chopped nuts into the dough, but that might be worth a shot if you like a little crunch.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, since the recipe doesn’t call for flour, they’re naturally gluten-free as long as your baking soda is gluten-free.
How do I store them? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage and thaw at room temperature before eating.
Will the cookies be too sweet? They’re nicely balanced, but if you prefer less sweetness, you might try slightly reducing the sugar next time.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? You can, though it will change the texture a bit — maybe a bit more bite and less smooth.
Ready to give these comforting cookies a try? Save this recipe and treat yourself to a little homemade nostalgia soon.