Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Soft, buttery, and beautifully pink, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly makes people smile. These cookies combine melt-in-your-mouth strawberry-flavored dough with a classic chocolate Hershey’s kiss in the center, finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar. They’re festive, nostalgic, and perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, Valentine’s Day, or anytime you want a dessert that looks just as good as it tastes.

With a short bake time and simple ingredients, these strawberry kiss cookies are easy enough for busy days but impressive enough for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth
• Sweet strawberry flavor paired with rich chocolate
• Festive pink color perfect for holidays and parties
• Great make-ahead cookie with minimal prep
• Fun, family-friendly baking project

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g, softened) – Creates a rich, tender cookie base
• Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Sweetens and helps create a light texture
• Large egg (1, room temperature) – Binds ingredients and adds structure
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor
• Almond extract (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a subtle bakery-style aroma
• All-purpose flour (2 cups + 2 tbsp / 280g) – Provides structure without making cookies dense
• Baking powder (1 tsp) – Helps cookies rise slightly and stay soft
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness
• Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix (1 package / 3 oz) – Adds strawberry flavor and vibrant pink color
• Powdered sugar (¼ cup, for dusting) – Light, sweet finishing touch
• Chocolate kiss candies (24–30, unwrapped) – Classic chocolate center

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), and beat until fully combined.

Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until evenly incorporated and the dough turns a bright pink color.

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 dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons of flour.

Shape and Chill

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is essential to prevent spreading and keep the cookies thick and soft.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Do not press an indentation into the dough before baking—this helps the cookies hold their shape.

Bake for 11–13 minutes, until the edges look set and lightly firm. The centers may appear soft but will set as they cool.

Add the Chocolate Kisses

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will help the chocolate stick without melting too much.

Cool and Dust

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely so the chocolate can set. Once cooled, lightly dust with powdered sugar.

Tip: To keep powdered sugar off the chocolate, dust the cookies first, then add the kisses if preferred.

Tips for Success

• Always chill the dough to prevent flat cookies
• Use room-temperature butter for smooth mixing
• Do not overbake—soft centers are key
• Press the chocolate kisses gently to avoid cracking

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

Recipe Variations

• White Chocolate Strawberry Cookies: Use white chocolate kisses for a sweeter twist
• Extra Strawberry Flavor: Add 1–2 tablespoons crushed freeze-dried strawberries to the dough
• Holiday Version: Swap powdered sugar for pink sanding sugar before baking
• Mini Cookies: Roll smaller dough balls and reduce bake time by 1–2 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve strawberry kiss cookies on a dessert platter, with milk, coffee, or hot cocoa. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, baby showers, Valentine’s Day treats, or festive dessert tables.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be chilled overnight and baked the next day.

How should I store strawberry kiss cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 7 days.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze baked cookies without powdered sugar for up to 2 months. Dust after thawing.

Do I have to use almond extract?
No, it’s optional but adds a bakery-style flavor that pairs well with strawberry.

Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough may not have been chilled long enough, or the butter was too warm.

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Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are soft, sweet, and irresistibly fun. With their vibrant pink color, buttery strawberry flavor, and classic chocolate center, they’re guaranteed to be a hit wherever you serve them. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers cookies that look festive and taste amazing.