Strawberry Kiss Cookies Valentine’s Recipe

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sweet flavor to any occasion. These cookies combine the charm of buttery goodness with a hint of strawberry and a rich chocolate kiss at the center. They are perfect for celebrations, special gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. The playful pink hue and delicious taste make these cookies a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just want to brighten up a regular day, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is not only easy and beginner-friendly, but it also allows you to create something homemade and delicious that beats store-bought options every time. The process is simple and requires just a few ingredients, making it a quick baking project that won’t take up too much of your day. Plus, everyone loves cookies, especially when they’re as fun as Strawberry Kiss Cookies. They are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

What makes Strawberry Kiss Cookies special

The star of this recipe is the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix, which gives the cookies their unique taste and vibrant color. This touch of strawberry turns an ordinary cookie into something truly special. The addition of chocolate kisses creates a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth. Unlike typical cookies, these offer a soft, chewy texture with a sweet surprise in the center. This combination of flavors and textures sets Strawberry Kiss Cookies apart from other treats.

Is Strawberry Kiss Cookies healthy

While Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a sweet indulgence, they are made with simple ingredients that are more wholesome than many store-bought snacks. They contain butter, flour, and sugar, which are traditional baking staples. However, they are still a treat to enjoy in moderation. Keep in mind that portion control is key, especially since these cookies are so delicious that it’s easy to reach for more than one!

How to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Making Strawberry Kiss Cookies is a stress-free process that beginners can easily follow. The recipe involves simple steps: mixing ingredients, chilling the dough, and baking. You don’t need any special equipment, just a mixing bowl and a baking sheet. The dough comes together quickly, and the chilling time helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their beautiful shape. With this straightforward method, you’ll have tasty cookies ready to enjoy in no time!

Ingredients

To make Strawberry Kiss Cookies, you will need the following 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

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, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing 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.
2. Shape & chill the cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into 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.
3. 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 appear soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
4. 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.
5. Cool completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set.
6. 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

Strawberry Kiss Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect as an after-school snack, a sweet addition to lunchboxes, or served with coffee during afternoon breaks. You can also plate them beautifully for parties or family gatherings. The pink color and chocolate kisses create an appealing presentation that delights everyone. They are also great alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert.

 

Best occasions to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These cookies are versatile and fit for many occasions. Whether it’s a casual weeknight treat, a bake sale, or a holiday celebration, Strawberry Kiss Cookies will shine. They are also a fun activity to do with children, as they can help shape the dough and place the chocolate kisses. Always a hit at family gatherings, they also make a sweet snack for movie nights or gatherings with friends.

How to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Storing Strawberry Kiss Cookies is easy. Keep them at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They will typically stay good for about a week. If your home is warm, you can also store them in the fridge, which will help the cookies stay fresher longer. For longer storage, consider freezing them; simply place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Can you make Strawberry Kiss Cookies ahead of time

Yes, you can make Strawberry Kiss Cookies ahead of time! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake the cookies and store them, then simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness. This flexibility makes it easy to get a head start on your baking without compromising on taste.

Tips to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

1. Texture tips: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This helps achieve the right texture when creaming with sugar.
2. Flavor tips: Consider adding more strawberry flavor by using a bit of strawberry extract or a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberries in the dough.
3. Common mistakes to avoid: Avoid skipping the chilling step, as it is crucial for preventing spreading and ensuring the cookies hold their shape.
4. Beginner success tips: If the dough seems too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a touch more flour until it is easier to handle.

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Variation

There are many fun ways to vary Strawberry Kiss Cookies. Consider swapping out the strawberry gelatin for other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a fresh twist. You can also use different types of chocolates in place of chocolate kisses, such as caramel-filled or white chocolate options. For a healthier spin, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

FAQs

Q: How should I store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for a longer shelf life.

Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

A: Yes, you can freeze them! Just place the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Q: What should I do if my Strawberry Kiss Cookies spread too much when baking?

A: If your cookies spread, next time make sure to chill the dough longer before baking to help maintain their shape.