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These playful Grinch cookies are my answer to spreading holiday cheer even on the frostiest days. With a buttery soft green sugar cookie dough hiding a surprise candy center and a bright red heart sprinkle, these are always the first to disappear at winter gatherings.
My nieces still talk about the year I brought these for movie night and how the hidden chocolate made them giggle. Now it is a holiday tradition we look forward to every December.
Ingredients
- Hershey’s kisses: The creamy chocolate center is the surprise everyone loves Choose original milk chocolate for nostalgia
- Sugar cookie mix: This shortcut base ensures consistent texture and quick prep Look for the highest quality mix you can find for the best flavor
- All-purpose flour: Adds stability so the cookies hold their shape Use fresh flour for the best results
- Large egg: Brings everything together A fresh egg gives the cookies richness
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter makes the dough tender and flavorful Always use real butter at room temperature for the best results
- Green gel food coloring: Gives the cookies that classic Grinchy hue Use gel coloring for bold color without thinning the dough
- Large heart candy sprinkles: The finishing touch that captures the spirit of the Grinch Choose a brand with bright vibrant color and a sweet flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Egg Mixture:
- In a small bowl combine the egg and green gel food coloring Stir until the color is completely blended and even
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl add sugar cookie mix all-purpose flour softened butter and the egg mixture Blend with a handheld mixer on low speed for about three minutes until you have a very thick dough
- Shape and Fill the Cookies:
- Using a heaping tablespoon of dough scoop a portion into your hands Flatten each ball into a thin disc Place a Hershey’s Kiss in the center gently wrap the dough around the candy and roll into a ball Keep the candy upright
- Bake the Cookie Cups:
- Arrange the dough balls in a mini muffin tin making sure the chocolate tip is centered and upright Bake at 375 F for about twelve minutes Do not let the cookies brown You want them just set
- Decorate and Cool:
- When the cookies come out of the oven gently press a red heart candy onto the side of each one Leave them in the pan to cool for at least ten minutes before moving to a wire rack
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I love the vibrant green color from the gel food coloring It always brings out big smiles and reminds everyone of our favorite holiday story My youngest nephew once tried to sneak an extra cookie because he was convinced the Grinch would not miss one
Storage Tips
Let the cookies cool completely before storing Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days For longer storage you can freeze the baked cookies for up to one month just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use a homemade sugar cookie dough if you prefer or substitute the Hershey’s Kisses with any small chocolate candy White chocolate or caramel candies offer fun twists If you cannot find heart-shaped sprinkles try a small red jellybean or a dot of red icing
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Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect with a mug of hot cocoa by the fire Serve them after a holiday movie or package them up as cheerful gifts for teachers and neighbors For parties display on a bright platter with other Christmas cookies
Cultural and Historical Context
Inspired by the classic story these cookies capture the heartwarming transformation at the center of How the Grinch Stole Christmas The iconic green and red colors remind everyone of the beloved holiday cartoon While they have become a trend in recent years their whimsy and surprise center make them an instant classic
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you get the cookies to stay green?
Green gel food coloring is mixed into the egg before combining with the dough, giving the cookies a vibrant color.
- → What keeps the chocolate in the center from melting out?
The dough is wrapped completely around each Hershey’s Kiss, sealing it and helping maintain its shape during baking.
- → Can I use other candies instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
Yes, you can replace Hershey's Kisses with chocolate hearts or another favorite candy for a different flavor twist.
- → Why are heart candy sprinkles added?
The red heart candy sprinkles add a fun decorative touch and hint at the Grinch theme from the holiday story.
- → What’s the best way to remove the cookies from the pan?
Let the cookies cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before gently removing to avoid breakage.