Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat that brings together buttery dough, the sweet flavor of strawberries, and a classic chocolate kiss center. Perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence—these cookies are sure to impress with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant pink hue.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of strawberry gelatin and chocolate kisses results in a unique flavor that stands out.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
- Visually Appealing: Their pink color and chocolate kiss center make them eye-catching and perfect for festive events.
- Versatile Treat: Add your personal touch with different flavored jellos or toppings to match the season or event.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these Strawberry Kiss Cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures your butter and sugar are light and fluffy—a key to great cookies.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing cookies to bake evenly without burning.
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.
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
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 while 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. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results). This step is essential for preventing spreading during baking.
Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking as this will cause excess spreading. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges look set but slightly firm. The cookies may appear soft in the center but will 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 about 2 minutes before adding kisses. While still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into each cookie’s center. The residual heat will help secure the chocolate without melting it too much.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows both the cookie texture to set properly and ensures that chocolate kisses remain intact.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
To avoid getting powdered sugar on top of the chocolate kisses, dust your cookies FIRST with powdered sugar before pressing in each kiss.
Enjoy making these delectable Strawberry Kiss Cookies! They’re bound to be a hit at your next gathering or simply enjoyed at home!
How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Strawberry kiss cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing a pop of color and flavor to your dessert table. Here are some delightful ways to serve these sweet treats.
For a Festive Gathering
- Platter Arrangement: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with fresh strawberries for a vibrant display.
- Gift Boxes: Package cookies in cute boxes tied with ribbon for thoughtful gifts.
With Beverages
- Milk Pairing: Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that everyone loves.
- Tea or Coffee: Offer alongside herbal teas or coffee for an afternoon treat.
Special Occasions
- Birthday Parties: Use these cookies as party favors or as part of the dessert spread.
- Valentine’s Day Treats: Present them in heart-shaped containers for a romantic touch.
For Kids’ Events
- School Snacks: Send them as a fun snack option in lunchboxes.
- Cookie Decorating Party: Let kids decorate their own cookies with additional toppings like sprinkles.
How to Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
To ensure your strawberry kiss cookies are the best they can be, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, giving you perfectly shaped cookies.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter and sugar cream together more effectively, resulting in a better texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Cookies will firm up as they cool. Remove them when the edges are set but the center looks soft.
- Press Kisses While Warm: Gently pressing chocolate kisses into warm cookies ensures they stick well without melting completely.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar After Baking: To keep the chocolate centers intact, dust powdered sugar before adding kisses.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
These strawberry kiss cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet flavor. Here are some great options.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream makes for a deliciously creamy pairing.
- Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese to contrast with cookie sweetness.
- Chocolate Fondue: A fun interactive dessert, perfect for dipping leftover fruit or even mini cookies!
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light yet satisfying side.
- Pancakes or Waffles: These could make an indulgent breakfast option that pairs well with strawberry flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Kiss Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring Chill Time: Skipping the chilling step leads to cookies that spread too much. Always chill your dough for at least an hour.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
- Overbaking Cookies: Baking them too long makes cookies hard instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set.
- Forgetting to Dust with Powdered Sugar: If you skip this step, your cookies may lack that sweet finish. Dust with powdered sugar before adding chocolate kisses.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can affect how well they mix. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to three months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe:
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?
Using fresh strawberries will change the texture and flavor. The gelatin ensures consistent sweetness and color.
How long do these cookies last?
The cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for about one week at room temperature.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Consider adding white chocolate chips or using different flavored gelatin mixes for unique tastes.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to birthday parties. Feel free to customize them with different flavored kisses or toppings, making them truly your own!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies, an enchanting treat that unites buttery dough with the sweet essence of strawberries and a classic chocolate kiss at its heart. These cookies are not just visually stunning with their vibrant pink hue but also melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making them perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or cozy nights at home. With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create these flavorful gems effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24 chocolate kiss candies
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg and extracts.
- Add strawberry gelatin and combine well.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually blend into the wet mixture to form a soft dough.
- Roll tablespoon-sized pieces of dough into balls and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake chilled dough balls for 11-13 minutes.
- After removing from oven, gently press chocolate kisses into each cookie while still warm.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
