Imagine a sweet treat that combines the joy of strawberry and chocolate in one delightful bite. Strawberry Kiss Cookies are simply irresistible, with their vibrant pink hue and an enchanting taste that dances on your tongue. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are a wonderful way to celebrate any occasion. Their charming appearance and delightful flavor make them a hit among both kids and adults alike.
As you bite into these cookies, the soft texture envelops your mouth, while the burst of strawberry and the richness of a chocolate kiss create a harmonious blend of flavors. This article will guide you through the steps of making these lovely cookies from scratch, ensuring you enjoy the process as much as the final result. Let’s get started and fill your kitchen with sweet scents and smiles!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with real butter and eggs for a soft and flavorful cookie.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make it perfect for any baking skill level.
- Nutrition: Incorporates strawberry, offering a sneak of fruity goodness in your treat.
- Versatility: Great for parties, holidays, or a simple afternoon snack.
- Presentation: The pink dough and chocolate kisses look as good as they taste.
You’ll find yourself reaching for these cookies time and again!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 11-13 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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
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), 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
- Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a colorful plate for a cheerful display.
- Accompaniments: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Portions: Serve 1-2 cookies per person, as they are rich and satisfying.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with milk, coffee, or a refreshing strawberry lemonade.
These cookies will surely be the star of any dessert spread!
Additional Tips
- Add a sprinkle of extra strawberry powder on top for added flavor.
- Customize by adding nuts or candy pieces for a personal touch.
- Serve them warm for an even more comforting experience.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Raspberry Kisses: Substitute strawberry gelatin for raspberry and add dark chocolate kisses.
- Lemon Kiss Cookies: Replace the strawberry gelatin with lemon powder and use lemon zest in the dough.
- Nutty Strawberry Kisses: Integrate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature.
Special Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Cookie scoop
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen strawberries may alter the texture, but you can use freeze-dried strawberry powder for great flavor.
2. Are these cookies suitable for dietary restrictions?
They are not gluten-free or dairy-free as written, but you can substitute ingredients to meet specific dietary needs.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month before baking.
4. Can I customize the flavor?
Yes! Adding different flavored gelatin mixes or extracts can easily change the taste profile.
5. Is there an alternative cooking method?
You could try using an air fryer, adjusting the temperature and cooking time as needed for best results.
Conclusion
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful mix of sweetness and charm, making them a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Their lovely pink color and rich flavors create a joyful treat perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply bringing a smile to your face. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful baking experience that will impress everyone around you!
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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—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.
- 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 before pressing in the kisses.
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