Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are a festive holiday classic that combines warm, spiced gingerbread flavor with a sweet chocolate center. Soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and rolled in sparkling sanding sugar, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Topped with a striped chocolate kiss, they make the perfect centerpiece for cookie platters, gift boxes, and holiday gatherings.

These cookies capture everything we love about the season — cozy spices, rich molasses, and a touch of chocolate indulgence. They’re easy to make, fun to assemble, and always a crowd favorite, especially during Christmas baking season.

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s festive, flavorful, and visually stunning, Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are a must-bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are holiday perfection in every bite.

Warm gingerbread spices with rich molasses flavor
Soft, chewy texture with lightly crisp edges
Sparkly sugar coating for a festive look
Chocolate kiss center adds sweetness and contrast
Perfect for holiday trays, parties, and gifting
Easy to make and great for baking with family

Preparation and Baking Time

These cookies come together easily and bake quickly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (recommended)
Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¾ cup salted sweet cream butter, softened
¾ cup light brown sugar
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons molasses
1 large egg
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

For Rolling and Topping

Sanding sugar, for rolling
30 chocolate kisses (striped or non-filled varieties work best)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and allspice. Set aside.

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Scoop the chilled dough into 1½-inch balls. Roll each ball in sanding sugar until fully coated.

Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake the Cookies

Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cookies are set around the edges and slightly puffed but still soft in the center.

Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly around the edges — this is normal and adds to the rustic look.

Cool and Set

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. The chocolate will firm up as the cookies cool.

Serving Suggestions

Serve on holiday cookie trays or dessert platters
Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea
Package in festive tins for edible gifts
Perfect for Christmas parties and cookie exchanges

Helpful Tips

Chill the dough to prevent spreading
Press the chocolate kiss in gently to avoid melting
Use sanding sugar for extra sparkle and crunch
Do not overbake — cookies should remain soft

Recipe Variations

Use dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses
Add a pinch of ground cloves for deeper spice
Roll cookies in granulated sugar if sanding sugar isn’t available
Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for extra indulgence

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

You can freeze the unbaked dough balls (without sugar coating) for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly, roll in sugar, and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, add ¼ teaspoon salt to the dry ingredients.

Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough may not have been chilled long enough or the butter may have been too warm.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies keep well and are great for making a few days in advance.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Kiss Cookies are the ultimate holiday cookie — cozy, festive, and irresistibly delicious. With warm spices, rich molasses, sparkling sugar, and a chocolate kiss center, they bring both flavor and charm to any celebration. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a holiday tradition.