As the scent of freshly baked cookies begins to fill my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and nostalgia. There’s a special joy that comes from whipping up a batch of Strawberry Kiss Cookies, each one bursting with sweetness and playful flavor. I discovered this delightful recipe during a lazy Sunday afternoon, where I had a few unexpected ingredients on hand and an insatiable craving for something different.
These cookies are not only a feast for the senses but also ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, including the star of the show—strawberry-flavored gelatin mix—they come together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for when you’re hosting a gathering or simply seeking a sweet treat to brighten your day, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are both a visual delight and a crowd-pleaser. And let’s be honest, who can resist the combination of our beloved chocolate kisses nestled atop a tender, fruity cookie? Let’s dive into the recipe that will surely capture the hearts of family and friends alike!
Why Love These Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Irresistible sweetness: The combination of strawberry gelatin and chocolate kisses creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion in every bite.
Easy to make: With just three simple steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time—perfect for busy bakers or last-minute cravings.
Visual appeal: The vibrant pink hue and the cute chocolate kisses on top make these cookies a stunning addition to any dessert table.
Versatile treats: Great for parties, picnics, or simply as a delightful afternoon snack, these cookies will surely impress your guests.
Nostalgic flavors: Bring back childhood memories of fruity treats with this fun twist on classic cookies! Don’t forget to explore our related recipes for more fun dessert options.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create sweet magic!
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (226g), softened – ensures a rich, creamy base for your cookies.
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup (200g) – adds sweetness and helps achieve a lovely texture.
- Large egg – 1, at room temperature – binds the ingredients together for a perfect dough.
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp – enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing warmth to each bite.
- Almond extract (optional) – 1/2 tsp – offers a delightful hint of nuttiness, but feel free to skip if you prefer!
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups + 2 tbsp (280g) – provides structure for your cookies to hold their shape.
- Baking powder – 1 tsp – ensures a light and fluffy texture, making these cookies simply irresistible.
- Salt – 1/4 tsp – balances sweetness and enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix – 1 package (3 oz) – infuses the cookies with vibrant strawberry flavor and color.
For the Topping
- Powdered sugar – 1/4 cup – for dusting, adding a touch of sweetness and a lovely finish.
- Chocolate kiss candies – 24–30, unwrapped – the perfect finishing touch that pairs wonderfully with the fruity flavor of the strawberry kiss cookies.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect baking temperature to achieve that lovely golden edge on your cookies.
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Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air for a lighter cookie.
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Add the room temperature egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract, mixing until well combined for that wonderful depth of flavor.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients for a delightfully balanced dough.
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Combine the dry ingredients gradually with the wet mixture. Mix just until everything is combined—a bit of flour here and there is perfectly fine to achieve that perfect dough.
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Stir in the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix, making sure to distribute it evenly throughout the dough for that vibrant flavor and color.
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Spoon dollops of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading as they bake.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them—they should be perfectly soft in the middle!
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Cool the cookies slightly after removing them from the oven, then transfer them to a wire rack. This step is key for achieving that lovely texture!
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Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar and place a chocolate kiss on each one for the perfect finishing touch that’ll make them extra special.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries for an extra fruity twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for your snacking pleasure.
Fridge: If you prefer extra freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Roll into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. You can bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their soft texture while keeping the delicious strawberry flavor vibrant.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Kiss Cookies
• Butter Temperature: Use softened butter at room temperature for easy creaming. Cold butter can lead to a dense texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
• Perfect Baking Time: Bake until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They’ll continue to cook as they cool!
• Storage Tips: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Enjoy creating your delightful strawberry kiss cookies and share the joy!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay just as delicious and soft. When you’re ready to indulge, take them out, dust them with powdered sugar, and top each with a chocolate kiss just before serving. This way, you’ll save time during busy weeknights while still enjoying a delightful treat that feels freshly made!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Picture the scene: warm cookies cooling on the counter, inviting you to create a delightful spread that complements their sweetness.
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Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and vibrant, they enhance the cookie’s fruity flavor while adding a refreshing contrast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a luxurious texture.
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Milk or Almond Milk: This classic pairing helps to balance the sweetness and ensures a delightful dip with every bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The tangy bubbles contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, making every nibble feel celebratory.
For something extra special, serve the cookies with a strawberry shortcake-themed dessert platter. Layer sponge cake, whipped cream, and sliced strawberries beside the cookies to create a treat that’s perfect for warm summer evenings.
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Chocolate-covered Strawberries: These indulgent bites echo the chocolate kisses on the cookies, making them a match made in dessert heaven.
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Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of your favorite brew enhances the cookie experience, creating a cozy moment that invites conversation and connection.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits adds texture and vibrant colors to your dessert table while keeping things light and refreshing.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these cookies to your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it has a 1:1 ratio for best results.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter, and choose dairy-free chocolate kisses for a delightful plant-based treat.
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Fruit-Forward: Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh strawberries into the dough for an extra burst of freshness and fruity flavor.
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Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the cookie’s softness.
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Cocoa Twist: Replace a 1/4 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that harmonizes beautifully with the strawberry flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add 1 tsp of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens each bite.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting flavor that elevates the cookie experience.
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Heat Factor: For a fun kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder—just be careful, as a little goes a long way!
Enjoy mixing and matching to make these Strawberry Kiss Cookies your own!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe strawberries for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries for your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, look for berries that are bright red, firm, and have a sweet fragrance. Avoid any with dark spots or a dull appearance, as these could indicate overripeness or spoilage.
How should I store my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Very! Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Remember, letting them come back to room temperature before enjoying can enhance their texture!
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the unbaked cookie dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer the dough balls into a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to your baking time!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough turns out too sticky, don’t worry! Simply sprinkle a little more flour into the mixture—start with 1 tablespoon at a time—until it reaches the right consistency. If you’ve added too much flour, you can balance it out with a splash of milk or an extra egg to keep the cookies soft.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! If you choose to omit the almond extract, your Strawberry Kiss Cookies will be nut-free and safe for those with nut allergies. Always double-check labels on ingredients, especially for items like chocolate kisses, to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I ensure my cookies are perfectly baked?
To achieve perfectly baked cookies, keep an eye on their edges. Bake until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly underbaked—this ensures a soft texture as they cool. If you’re unsure, a good rule of thumb is to pull them out when they look just a bit underdone!
Enjoy creating your delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies and the sweet moments that come with them!
Delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the room temperature egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract, mixing until well combined.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients gradually with the wet mixture until just mixed.
- Stir in the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix evenly throughout the dough.
- Spoon dollops of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool the cookies slightly after removing them from the oven, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar and place a chocolate kiss on each one.