Santa'S Kisses
Santa's Kisses are delightful coconut cookies topped with a chocolate kiss or cherry, offering a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of almond. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these treats are easy to make and sure to bring joy to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, flour, salt, and coconut in a bowl.
- Stir in egg whites, almond extract, and chopped almonds until well mixed.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden.
- Remove from oven and immediately transfer to a wire rack or let cool slightly.
- While still warm, press a chocolate kiss or candied cherry into the center of each cookie.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping for maximum volume. If you don't have almonds, you can substitute with walnuts or pecans. Feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as vanilla or coconut, for a unique flavor twist. To make them extra festive, consider adding a sprinkle of colored sugar on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift. Serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy pairing. They also make a delightful addition to dessert platters alongside other cookies, like Surprise Snowballs. For a festive touch, consider arranging them on a decorative plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Santa's Kisses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, separate layers with parchment paper. Reheat them gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes if you prefer them warm again, but they're delightful at room temperature as well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Santa'S Kisses contains roughly 164 calories, with 6g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can use sweetened coconut flakes, but be aware that it will make the cookies sweeter. Adjust the sugar in the recipe if you prefer a less sweet cookie. The texture will remain similar, ensuring your Santa's Kisses still turn out delicious!
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you don't have almond extract on hand, you can use vanilla extract as a substitute. While the flavor will change slightly, it will still complement the coconut and chocolate well. For a more unique flavor, consider using hazelnut or even coconut extract.
Can I freeze Santa's Kisses?
Yes, these cookies freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, and they'll taste just as delightful!
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).