Peppermint Kisses
Peppermint Kisses are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies infused with refreshing peppermint and chocolate bits. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat, they offer a light, crisp texture with a burst of minty flavor, appealing to both chocolate lovers and peppermint enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites until stiff enough to hold in points.
- Gradually add 8 tablespoons of sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Fold in remaining sugar, salt, chopped peppermint candy, and chocolate bits.
- Cover a cookie sheet with unglazed paper and drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet.
- Bake at 275°F for 30 to 35 minutes, until delicately browned, firm, and dry.
- Remove from paper immediately.
- Kisses should be used within one week after baking, unless frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your egg whites achieve the best volume, make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of any grease. If you don't have superfine sugar, you can pulse granulated sugar in a food processor for a few seconds to achieve a finer texture. For a twist, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or substituting the peppermint candy with crushed nuts for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These peppermint kisses make a delightful addition to any dessert platter, especially during the holidays. They pair beautifully with hot cocoa or coffee, and can also be served alongside festive treats like Frost Cookies. For a fun twist, try using them as a topping for ice cream or a mousse for an added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peppermint kisses in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. If you plan to keep them longer than a week, freezing is a great option; just layer them between parchment paper before sealing in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Kisses contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 use liquid egg whites instead of fresh egg whites?
Yes, you can use liquid egg whites as a substitute. Just make sure to follow the equivalent measurement, usually 2 tablespoons of liquid egg whites is equal to one large egg white. However, keep in mind that fresh egg whites tend to whip up better and can give a lighter texture to your kisses.
What can I do if my egg whites won’t whip to stiff peaks?
If your egg whites aren’t whipping to stiff peaks, ensure that there is no yolk contamination and that your bowl is completely clean. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize the egg whites and improve their volume. If you encounter persistent issues, it may be worth trying a new batch of eggs.
Can I replace peppermint candy with other flavors?
Absolutely! You can substitute the peppermint candy with other crushed candies like butterscotch or chocolate for a different flavor. Alternatively, you could add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm twist. Just remember that this will alter the overall taste profile of the kisses.
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).