These Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that perfectly combines buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough with a sweet strawberry flavor and a classic chocolate kiss in the center. Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any festive gathering, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful with their light dusting of powdered sugar. Their unique flavor profile and charming appearance will impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up with ease.
- Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of strawberry and chocolate creates a delightful taste that stands out from traditional cookie recipes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday celebration, or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
- Versatile Presentation: You can customize them for different occasions by changing the color of the dusting sugar or using different types of kisses.
- Kid-Friendly Cooking: Involve the little ones in baking; they will love rolling the dough into balls and adding the chocolate kisses!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will make your baking experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Parchment paper: It prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easier.
Ingredients
These strawberry kiss cookies combine buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough with the sweetness of strawberry and a classic chocolate kiss center. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients:
– 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 Recipe
Step 1: 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 along with 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 an extra tablespoon or two of flour.
Step 2: Shape & Chill the Cookies
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form smooth balls. Place these dough balls on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results). Chilling is crucial to prevent spreading during baking.
Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange your chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking—this will cause excess spreading. Bake for 11–13 minutes or until edges look set and slightly firm. The cookies may look soft in the center but will continue firming up as they cool.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Remove cookies from oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before adding kisses. While still warm, gently press one chocolate kiss into each cookie’s center. The residual heat helps adhere it without melting too much.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. This allows the chocolate to set properly.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
To avoid getting powdered sugar on top of the chocolates, dust cookies FIRST with powdered sugar before pressing in kisses.
Enjoy your deliciously sweet Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
These delightful strawberry kiss cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies can be served in many fun and appealing ways.
For a Sweet Treat Table
- Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation at gatherings.
- Gift Bags: Place individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon for charming party favors.
With Beverages
- Milk: Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination.
- Tea or Coffee: Serve alongside your favorite tea or coffee to enhance the flavors of the strawberry and chocolate.
At Celebrations
- Birthday Parties: Use strawberry kiss cookies as a fun alternative to traditional birthday cake.
- Holiday Gatherings: These cookies make a festive addition to holiday cookie trays, especially during Valentine’s Day.
As Dessert
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies.
- Dessert Charcuterie Board: Include them on a dessert charcuterie board, mixed with fruits, chocolates, and nuts for an indulgent treat.
How to Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
To ensure your strawberry kiss cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with butter and egg at room temperature helps create a smoother dough.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough prevents spreading and helps maintain the shape of the cookies while baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove them when they look slightly underbaked for soft centers.
- Press Kisses Gently: When adding chocolate kisses, press them gently into the center to avoid melting too much.
- Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try swapping out the strawberry gelatin for other flavors like raspberry or cherry for different variations.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your strawberry kiss cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and flavor of vanilla ice cream pair well with the fruity notes of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Offer chocolate fondue as an interactive dessert option where guests can dip their cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Add a selection of cheeses that offer contrasting flavors to balance the sweetness, like sharp cheddar or brie.
- Nut Mix: A simple nut mix provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies.
- Coffee Cake: Serve alongside moist coffee cake for a delightful brunch option that combines flavors well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making strawberry kiss cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that might hinder your baking success.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the consistency of your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may result in undercooked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
- Adding chocolate kisses too early: Pressing kisses into hot cookies can cause them to melt excessively. Wait a couple of minutes after baking before adding them.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store strawberry kiss cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months before baking.
- For baked cookies, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to customize the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe?
You can customize these cookies by adding nuts, using different flavored gelatin, or even swapping chocolate kisses with other candies like caramel or peanut butter.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?
While fresh strawberries can add flavor, they will alter the texture of your cookies. Gelatin helps maintain a consistent cookie structure.
How do I know when my strawberry kiss cookies are done?
Cookies are done when their edges appear set and slightly firm, even if they look soft in the center.
Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for parties, holidays, or any festive gathering due to their vibrant color and delicious taste.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe brings together delightful flavors and textures that can please any crowd. Their versatility allows you to customize them for various occasions, making them a favorite choice. Try this recipe today and enjoy these sweet treats with loved ones!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe, where buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dough meets sweet strawberry flavor and a classic chocolate kiss at its center. Perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or cozy gatherings—these cookies not only taste amazing but also present beautifully with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Their unique flavor combination and charming appearance are sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to make and kid-friendly, this recipe invites little hands to help roll dough and add kisses, turning baking into a fun family activity. Enjoy these irresistible treats fresh from the oven or share them as delightful gifts!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24–30 chocolate kiss candies
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and extracts, mixing well.
- Incorporate the strawberry gelatin. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; combine with wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Roll 1 tablespoon of dough into balls and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chilled dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 11–13 minutes.
- After removing from the oven, press a chocolate kiss into each cookie while warm.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
