Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that has captivated the taste buds of sweet-toothed fans for generations. Combining the creamy, rich taste of peanut butter with the smooth sweetness of chocolate kisses, these cookies offer a perfect harmony of flavors that make for an irresistible snack. Often associated with the holiday seasons, particularly Christmas and Valentine's Day, they have become a celebratory staple in many households. Their popularity soars due to the simple ingredients and the joyous activity of pressing a chocolate kiss into the warm, soft cookie, almost like sealing it with a gentle 'kiss' of chocolate.

When serving Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies, you’ll find they hold their own quite brilliantly without the need for elaborate accompaniments. They are often served as standalone treats with a cold glass of milk, which complements the rich peanut butter flavor exquisitely. If serving at a gathering, a platter of these cookies can be accompanied by other simple desserts, such as brownie bites or mini cupcakes, for those who love to mix and match their sweet indulgences. Coffee or a dessert wine could also serve as sophisticated pairing options for adults.

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
- About 36 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the creamy mixture until a dough forms.

4. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar to coat.

5. Place the sugared balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden and appear set.

7. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat of the cookie will melt the bottom of the chocolate kiss and help it stick.

8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies as a delightful sweet treat at your next family gathering, school event, or simply as an indulgent snack to brighten your day.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove