Each of these little peppermint kisses is a drop of decadence.

And at this time of year, I need a bit of something delicious, rich, and chocolate-y to get me through the day.

Sure, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. However, that’s only if you count “Christmastime” as beginning the day after winter exams end. Because, right now it’s honestly the most stressful time of the year.

Not only do I have exams to contend with this year, but I also have college acceptance letters being sent out, a few remaining college essays due, Christmas shopping to be done, and the tree to be decorated. With all of that, I barely have enough time to sleep, much less take a minute and bake something delicious or decadent to keep myself going.

Which is precisely why these kisses are so perfect.

I created a recipe for Peanut Butter Kisses about a year and a half ago, and let me tell you: it was the best idea ever. The thing is, it only takes five minutes tops to actually make these kisses, then pipe them out onto a cookie sheet. But once they’re made, you have 25+ little treats to pop into your mouth whenever you need a little chocolate pick-me-up (or reward for studying for 5 hours straight! ;))

Meaning, they’re the perfect quick and easy treat for the stressful exam (I mean Christmas?) season!

The trick is to simply avoid eating them all at once! 😉

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Kisses

• 1/4 c dark chocolate chips
• 1 tbs coconut butter
• 1/8 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tbs cocoa powder
• 1 crushed up mini candycane

Add chocolate chips and coconut butter to a small bowl and melt in the microwave for thirty seconds. Then remove and stir until completely smooth. Add peppermint extract, coca powder, and crushed up candy cane and stir until smooth. Scoop into a piping bag or ziplock baggie. Place in the freezer for three minutes, or until it has firmed up just a bit. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Cut the tip of bag and squeeze kiss-size dollops of the batter onto the wax paper, about an inch apart. Repeat until all the mixture has been used. Freeze until firm. Remove and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (from myfitnesspal.com)

Calories: 17

Fat: 1g

Carbs: 2g

Protein: 0g

(Yields 25 kisses)