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This irresistible salted caramel chocolate pillow recipe transforms simple ingredients into a decadent dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. The flaky pie crust encases a melted Hershey Kiss, creating the perfect vessel for rich caramel drizzle and that magical sweet-salty finish.
These pillows became an instant hit at my family gatherings after I first made them for a holiday dessert exchange. The look on everyone's face when they bit into the chocolate center was priceless, and now they're requested at every celebration.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated pie crust: Allows for quick preparation while still delivering flaky texture
- Hershey Kisses: Create the perfect chocolate center that melts beautifully
- Egg white wash: Ensures a golden brown exterior and helps toppings adhere
- Mrs Richardson's Caramel Topping: Provides convenient rich caramel flavor
- Mediterranean Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness with sophisticated flavor
- Granulated sugar: Adds pleasant crunch and caramelization to exterior
- Optional chocolate drizzle: Intensifies the chocolate experience
- Optional nuts: Add texture contrast and nutty depth
- Optional powdered sugar: Creates a festive finished appearance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick spray. Lightly flour your countertop to prevent sticking when working with the dough.
- Create Your Circles:
- Roll out the thawed pie crust on your floured surface. Using a 2½ inch circular cutter or drinking glass, press firmly and twist slightly to create clean circles in the dough. You should get approximately 14 circles from one crust.
- Fill With Chocolate:
- Place one unwrapped Hershey Kiss in the center of each dough circle. Make sure it sits in the middle so you have enough dough to wrap around it completely.
- Form The Pillows:
- Fold half of the circle over the Kiss and press the edge lightly. Then bring the opposite side up and over, creating a criss cross pattern. Pinch all edges firmly to seal completely so no chocolate leaks during baking.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Brush each pillow with the egg white wash, making sure to cover the entire surface for even browning. Sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar or Mediterranean sea salt depending on your flavor preference.
- Bake To Golden Perfection:
- Place pillows on prepared baking sheet with about an inch between each. Bake for 15-20 minutes, watching carefully until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color throughout.
- Cool And Garnish:
- Allow pillows to rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Once slightly cooled, drizzle generously with caramel topping and sprinkle with sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance.
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I discovered that using sea salt rather than table salt makes all the difference in this recipe. The larger flakes not only provide bursts of saltiness that contrast beautifully with the sweet caramel but also add visual appeal that elevates these simple treats to something special.
Make Ahead Options
These chocolate pillows can be prepared up to the baking stage and refrigerated for 24 hours. Simply place the formed pillows on a parchment lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar or salt, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time since they'll be starting cold.
Filling Variations
The versatility of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. Try using Hershey Kisses with almonds for added crunch, caramel filled Kisses for double caramel goodness, or dark chocolate varieties for a more sophisticated flavor profile. During holidays, seasonal Kisses like peppermint or pumpkin spice create festive variations perfect for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
These pillows work beautifully as part of a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and whipped cream. For an elevated dessert experience, serve warm pillows with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and extra caramel drizzle. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or bags for neighbors, teachers, or hostess presents.
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These salted caramel chocolate pillows will elevate your dessert game effortlessly. Once you've mastered this recipe, it's bound to become your go-to treat for every occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different flavors of Hershey Kisses for this dessert?
Absolutely! The recipe specifically mentions you can use different flavored Hershey Kisses. Try caramel-filled, dark chocolate, or seasonal varieties to create unique flavor combinations.
- → How do I store leftover chocolate pillows?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Warm slightly before serving to restore the gooey chocolate center.
- → Can I make these chocolate pillows ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the pillows a day ahead, refrigerate them covered, and then bake when needed. Alternatively, bake them completely, store at room temperature, and add the caramel drizzle just before serving.
- → What can I substitute for Mrs. Richardson's Caramel Topping?
Any quality caramel sauce or topping will work. You can also make homemade caramel sauce with butter, brown sugar, and cream if you prefer a from-scratch approach.
- → Why are my chocolate pillows leaking during baking?
This typically happens when the edges aren't sealed properly. Ensure you're pinching the dough firmly to create a tight seal around the chocolate. Chilling the assembled pillows for 15 minutes before baking can also help maintain their shape.
- → Can I freeze these chocolate pillows?
Yes, these freeze well! Freeze baked pillows without the caramel topping on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and add the caramel drizzle before serving.