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why make this recipe

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with the deliciousness of chocolate. These cookies are not only adorable but also easy to make. They bring a burst of color and flavor to any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

how to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

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

Directions:

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.
Mix Dry Ingredients: 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). This step is essential for preventing spreading.
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. Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking—this will cause excess spreading. 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. While still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The residual heat will help the chocolate stick without melting too much.
Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: To avoid getting powdered sugar on the chocolate, dust the cookies FIRST, then press in the kisses.

how to serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These cookies are perfect to serve as a sweet treat at gatherings or as a snack for yourself and family. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delightful combination. You can also present them on a decorative plate for a lovely dessert display.

how to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

tips to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Make sure to chill the dough properly. This helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
If your dough is too sticky, adding a bit more flour can help.
Don’t rush the cooling process! Allow the cookies to cool completely before eating to get the best flavor and texture.

variation

You can switch up the flavor of the cookies by using different flavored gelatin mixes, such as raspberry or grape, instead of strawberry. Additionally, you can try adding nuts or sprinkles for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different texture.

Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, helping them maintain their shape.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and store them for later.