Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Combining a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough infused with strawberry flavor and topped with a classic chocolate kiss, these cookies are sure to impress. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, their vibrant color and flavor make them stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, baking these cookies is a breeze.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry and chocolate creates a sweet and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Christmas, but also great for everyday snacking.
- Impressive Presentation: The bright pink hue and chocolate kiss center make these cookies eye-catching and festive.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are easy to package up as gifts for friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies, having the right tools on hand is essential. They make the process smoother and ensure your cookies turn out just right.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Electric Mixer: It saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
- Baking Sheet: Ensures even baking; using parchment paper prevents sticking.
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 another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until you form a soft pink dough. 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 create smooth balls. Place these dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour (or overnight for best results). This step prevents 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, spaced about two inches apart. Do not press an indentation into the dough before baking—this will cause excess spreading. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly firm. The centers may look soft but will firm up as they cool.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Remove cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for two minutes before adding kisses. While still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. This residual heat helps ensure that the chocolate sticks without melting too much.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set firmly.
Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar
To avoid getting powdered sugar on your chocolate kisses, dust each cookie first before pressing in the kisses.
Now you have delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Strawberry kiss cookies are delightful treats that can brighten any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying them at home, here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve strawberry kiss cookies alongside fresh strawberries for a refreshing contrast. The natural sweetness of the berries complements the cookies perfectly.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter. Add some whipped cream or chocolate sauce for dipping to elevate the presentation.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make adorable party favors for birthdays or galentine’s celebrations.
With Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and coolness balance the sweet strawberry flavors beautifully.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Use these cookies as part of your holiday dessert spread. Their pink hue makes them festive, especially for Valentine’s Day or Christmas gatherings.
With Tea or Coffee
- Enjoy strawberry kiss cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warm beverages enhance the buttery flavor of the cookies, making for a comforting snack.
How to Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
To ensure your strawberry kiss cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring they maintain their shape.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them when they look slightly underdone helps achieve a soft center.
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Press Kisses Gently: When adding the chocolate kisses, press them gently into the warm cookie to keep them intact without melting excessively.
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Dust Before Adding Kisses: To avoid messy chocolate, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before placing the kisses on top.
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Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft for longer.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Serving strawberry kiss cookies is even more delightful when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to contrast with the sweetness and provide savory notes.
- Chocolate Fondue: Offer melted chocolate for dipping; it enhances the chocolate kiss experience!
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries, creating a delicious side that pairs nicely with coffee or tea.
- Nut Mix: A selection of mixed nuts can add a crunchy texture that contrasts well with soft cookies.
- Mini Cupcakes: For those who want more sweets, mini cupcakes can create a fun dessert table alongside your cookies.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two strawberry kiss cookies with ice cream in between for a creative twist on traditional ice cream sandwiches.
- Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer a chewy option that balances out the crispy texture of your strawberry kiss cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Kiss Cookies can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Not Chilling the Dough: This is crucial to prevent spreading. Always chill your dough for at least 1 hour.
- Skipping the Strawberry Gelatin: The gelatin adds the unique flavor and color. Don’t skip it or substitute with fresh strawberries.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated. An inaccurate temperature can affect baking time and texture.
- Forgetting to Dust with Powdered Sugar First: Dusting after adding the kisses can lead to messy cookies. Always dust before pressing in the chocolate.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep them at room temperature to maintain softness.
Freezing Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a quick warm-up.
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 alter the texture and flavor of the cookies. Stick with strawberry gelatin for best results.
How do I achieve a firmer cookie?
To create firmer cookies, ensure that you chill your dough adequately before baking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
What can I use instead of chocolate kisses?
You can use other types of chocolate or even caramel candies as an alternative center.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding nuts or different flavored chocolates. Try this recipe today, and enjoy these sweet treats that bring joy to every bite!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies, a perfect blend of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough infused with vibrant strawberry flavor and topped with a classic chocolate kiss. Ideal for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress both visually and taste-wise. Their cheerful pink hue and sweet chocolate center make them not just a treat but a festive centerpiece for your dessert table. Whether you’re enjoying them with tea or gifting them to friends, these cookies are the ultimate sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24–30 chocolate kiss candies
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Incorporate strawberry gelatin powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, place on a lined baking sheet, and chill for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake chilled dough balls for 11-13 minutes until edges are set.
- Remove from oven, press a chocolate kiss into each cookie while warm, then cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
