If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of chocolate, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the perfect choice! These charming cookies feature a soft, pink dough infused with strawberry flavor and topped with a luscious chocolate kiss. Their vibrant color and inviting aroma make them a standout at any gathering, be it a birthday party, a festive holiday celebration, or simply a cozy afternoon at home.
As you take a bite, you’ll experience the delightful contrast of textures and flavors—the chewy cookie and the creamy chocolate create a wonderful balance. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about making these scrumptious cookies, from the ingredients and directions to tips on serving and variations to try. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with butter, eggs, and strawberries, these cookies are packed with fresh flavors.
- Ease of Preparation: With simple steps, it’s easy to whip up a batch even for beginner bakers.
- Nutrition: Strawberry kisses offer a touch of fruitiness while still indulging your sweet cravings.
- Versatility: Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just as a delightful snack.
- Presentation: Their pink hue and chocolate topping make them visually appealing on any dessert table.
These cookies are sure to win your heart!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 2 hours
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
How To Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
PREPARE THE DOUGH: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until well combined. Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour.
SHAPE & CHILL THE COOKIES: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results).
BAKE: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly firm. The cookies may look soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
ADD THE CHOCOLATE KISSES: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before adding the kisses. Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm.
COOL COMPLETELY: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
DUST WITH POWDERED SUGAR: Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before pressing in the kisses.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter for a cheerful display.
- Accompaniments: Pair with milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the experience.
- Portions: This recipe yields about 24-30 cookies; perfect for sharing!
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with a light tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
These tips will help elevate your cookie game!
Additional Tips
- Enhance the strawberry flavor by adding fresh strawberries in small pieces.
- Customize the cookies with different flavored gelatin mixes, like raspberry or cherry.
- Serve them with whipped cream or a fruit dip for added fun.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Version: Mix cocoa powder with the flour to create a chocolate base for an extra treat.
- Alternative Toppings: Instead of chocolate kisses, try topping with white chocolate or caramel candies.
- Nut Variants: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough balls uncooked in a resealable bag for up to three months; bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen strawberries; just be sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the moisture in the dough.Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?
They can be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and dairy-free with appropriate substitutes for butter.Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the dough and chill it for up to 48 hours before baking.Can I customize the flavor?
Yes! Use different flavors of gelatin or extracts to create your unique version.What if I don’t have an oven?
You could use a toaster oven or an air fryer that is suitable for baking cookies.
Conclusion
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful and easy treat to make. With fresh flavors and an appealing look, they are perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to cozy family nights. Whether you’re sharing them or enjoying them solo, these cookies promise a delightful experience. So, gather your ingredients, and let your baking adventure begin! Enjoy every sweet bite!
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Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 24-30 pieces chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
Instructions
Preparation of Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until well combined.
- Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms.
- If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour.
Shaping & Chilling
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results).
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly firm.
- The cookies may look soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Adding Chocolate Kisses
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before adding the kisses.
- Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm.
Cooling and Dusting
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before pressing in the kisses.
