why make this recipe
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with rich chocolate. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a simple afternoon snack. The vibrant pink color makes them visually appealing, and the flavors will surely leave everyone wanting more. Plus, they are simple to make and bring a fun twist to traditional cookies!
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.
- 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
Serve these cookies on a large platter for easy sharing. They look great at parties and can be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea or coffee. You can also put them in clear bags tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift!
how to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies
To keep your Strawberry Kiss Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week. If you have leftover cookies, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
tips to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps the cookies keep their shape.
- Feel free to use any flavor of gelatin for different cookie flavors.
- If you don’t want to use almond extract, you can leave it out or replace it with an additional splash of vanilla extract.
variation
You can swap out the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix with other flavors, such as raspberry or cherry, to create a different cookie with a unique taste. You can also try using white chocolate kisses instead of classic chocolate kisses for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of chocolate kisses?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate, including chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars, if you prefer.
2. How long do these cookies take to bake?
They usually take about 11-13 minutes to bake until the edges are set.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the cookies. Just remember to chill it properly before rolling and baking.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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 to prevent excess spreading.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly firm.
- 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.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar to avoid getting it on the chocolate, then press in the kisses.