Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Mixing the Dough
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Flavorings: Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until all ingredients are well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms.
Shaping and Baking
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form Dough Balls: Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar until fully coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Add Chocolate Kisses: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press a milk chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly around the edges.
- Cool: Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely, letting the chocolate set.
Notes
Cyclops Cookies are all about fun and surprise. What makes them stand out is the single candy center—often a chocolate kiss or peanut butter cup—that looks like a giant “eye” in the middle of each cookie.
I love how simple the dough is to make, but the final look feels festive and creative. These cookies are great for Halloween, monster-themed parties, or just baking something different with kids. Make sure not to overbake them; the soft, golden base pairs perfectly with the gooey candy center.