42 Hershey kisses or mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped, for topping
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 F.
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat butter and peanut butter until smooth.
Add the brown and granulated sugars and beat to combine.
Add the egg and vanilla; beat until the mixture is uniform.
Add flour, baking soda, and salt; beat on lowest possible speed until the mixture is combined to a smooth dough.
Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets (about 12 per sheet).
Roll to form smooth balls, and if desired, roll into sanding sugar, sprinkles, or cinnamon-sugar to coat.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookies are puffed and lightly golden brown along the edges.
Immediately press a candy into the center of each cookie while hot.
Transfer cookies to a cooling rack and repeat cookie-making process with the remaining dough, using the same baking sheets after cooling or additional baking sheets.
Drizzle the finished cookies with melted chocolate if desired, then transfer to a serving platter.