Leigh'S Peanut Butter Kisses
Delicious peanut butter cookies with chocolate kisses that melt perfectly, offering a sweet, nutty flavor. Ideal for a quick treat or festive occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together in a large bowl.
- Beat eggs, milk, and vanilla into the mixture.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the creamed mixture at low speed until just blended.
- Form dough into 1-inch balls.
- Roll in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 minutes.
- Press chocolate kisses, hugs, or M&M peanut candies into the center of each cookie.
- Bake for an additional 3 minutes to complete approximately 11 minutes total cooking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of shortening, or substitute half the granulated sugar with brown sugar for added moisture. If you don't have Kisses or M&Ms, chocolate chips work great too. To ensure even baking, rotate the cookie sheet halfway through the baking time. This recipe is a delightful take on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter kisses are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an afternoon snack. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with Pam'S Lemon Bread for a sweet treat spread. For a festive touch, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep well for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leigh'S Peanut Butter Kisses contains roughly 1249 calories, with 22g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 693mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. For one egg, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes, or use a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce. This will help bind the ingredients together in the same way.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will add a rich flavor to the cookies. Just ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent excessive spreading, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the fat in the dough. Additionally, be sure not to overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to a tougher cookie that spreads more.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).