Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that combines buttery dough with the sweet flavor of strawberry and a classic chocolate kiss center. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. The added touch of powdered sugar makes them visually appealing and adds a hint of sweetness that complements the chocolate kiss perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry and chocolate creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, Valentine’s Day, or just a sweet snack, these cookies fit right in.
- Fun for Kids: Get your little ones involved in the rolling and decorating process; they’ll love creating their own cookie masterpieces!
- Beautiful Presentation: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives these cookies an elegant finish, making them great for gifting or serving at events.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. These will ensure that your experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
These strawberry kiss cookies combine buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough with the sweetness of strawberry and a classic chocolate kiss center. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.
- 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 Recipe
Step 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), 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 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 look soft in the center but will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 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.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
To avoid getting powdered sugar on the chocolate kisses, dust the cookies FIRST with powdered sugar before pressing in the kisses.
With this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe, you can easily create an irresistible treat that everyone will adore! Enjoy your delicious creations!
How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Strawberry kiss cookies are delightful treats that can brighten any occasion. Whether for a festive celebration or a cozy gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve the cookies alongside fresh strawberries for a refreshing twist. The sweet fruit complements the flavors perfectly.
On a Decorative Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter and garnish with mint leaves. This makes for an eye-catching presentation at parties.
At a Cookie Bar
- Include these cookies as part of a cookie bar at your next event. Pair them with various toppings like sprinkles or whipped cream for fun customization.
With Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A warm cookie topped with cold ice cream is heavenly!
For Gift Giving
- Package the cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for a lovely homemade gift. Perfect for holidays or special occasions!
As Party Favors
- Offer these cookies as party favors at birthdays or weddings. Guests will love taking home this delicious treat as a sweet memory.
How to Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
To ensure your strawberry kiss cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Chill the dough properly: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Don’t skip the dusting: Dusting with powdered sugar adds a beautiful finish and enhances the sweetness of each bite.
- Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to avoid overbaking; they should be set but soft in the center.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts or flavored gelatins to customize your cookie’s taste.
- Store correctly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with strawberry kiss cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding freshness.
- Chocolate Fondue: Serve melted chocolate alongside fruits and marshmallows for dipping, complementing the cookie’s chocolate kiss center.
- Cheese Board: Include brie or goat cheese with crackers; the savory elements provide a nice contrast to sweet treats.
- Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience, providing warmth that pairs well with baked goods.
- Whipped Cream Dip: A light whipped cream dip is perfect for dipping fruit or even the cookies themselves, adding extra indulgence.
- Mini Cupcakes: Small cupcakes can be a fun addition to dessert tables, offering variety without overshadowing the star of the show—your strawberry kiss cookies!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much. Always refrigerate for at least one hour.
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Using cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cookie instead of a light and fluffy one.
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Overbaking: Baking even a minute too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
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Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precision. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
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Forgetting to dust with powdered sugar first: Dusting after pressing in the chocolate kisses can make it messy. Always dust before adding the kisses to keep them clean.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat cookies in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe:
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?
Using fresh strawberries is not recommended as they can alter the texture and moisture levels of the dough.
How can I customize my Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe?
You can add nuts or swap chocolate kisses for other types of candies like caramel or peanut butter for unique flavors.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will remain fresh for about a week.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges should look set, while the centers may appear slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile enough for various occasions, from parties to cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings! Give this recipe a try; your friends and family will love these sweet treats!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of making Strawberry Kiss Cookies, a sweet treat that perfectly marries buttery cookie dough with the fruity essence of strawberry and a classic chocolate kiss center. Ideal for any occasion, from festive holidays to cozy afternoons, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Involve your kids in the fun of rolling and decorating, creating lasting memories while baking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels and sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3 oz strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24–30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and gelatin; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually blend into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Roll tablespoon-sized dough balls and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake chilled dough balls for 11-13 minutes until edges are set.
- Press chocolate kisses into warm cookies; cool on wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
