Soft Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are little bites of joy that perfectly blend the sweetness of strawberries with the rich surprise of melted chocolate. They’re soft, beautifully pink, and topped with a chocolate kiss that melts just enough to give you a gooey center. Baking these cookies fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that will have everyone crowding around the counter, eager to taste one of these festive treats.

I first made these during a family gathering and they were an instant hit. Now whenever I’m feeling nostalgic, these cookies bring everyone back to the kitchen for an impromptu treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter: softened to room temperature This is key for a rich, tender cookie
• 1 cup granulated sugar: provides sweetness and contributes to softness
• 1 large egg: at room temperature helps bind the dough and adds moisture so cookies stay soft
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: adds depth and warm flavor to the dough
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: optional for a subtle nutty kick that enhances overall flavor
• 2 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour: gives the cookie structure balancing softness with shape
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: helps the cookies rise slightly for fluffiness
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: enhances the sweetness and the other flavors
• 1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix: gives the cookies their signature pink color and strawberry flavor
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting: adds a delicate sweetness and pretty finish
• 24 to 30 chocolate kiss candies unwrapped: each cookie’s delightful chocolate surprise and gooey center

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Initialize a large mixing bowl and beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. This step is important to incorporate air so your cookies have a tender texture. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until fully combined. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder making sure it dissolves fully to create a smooth pink dough.

Whisk Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and salt and to prevent clumps.

Combine Wet and Dry:

Gradually add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low just until a soft, pink dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a tablespoon or two more flour until it becomes manageable but still soft.

Shape and Chill:

Scoop approximately one tablespoon of dough and roll it into balls with your palms. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the fridge for at least one hour. Chilling is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much and to maintain their shape.

Bake the Cookies:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Arrange the chilled dough balls spaced about two inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not press down or indent the dough to avoid excessive spreading. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until the edges are set and slightly firm, even if the center looks a bit soft.

Add the Chocolate Kisses:

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for two minutes. While still warm, gently press one chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat will slightly melt the chocolate without making it lose shape.

Cool and Dust:

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely so the chocolate can set properly. Finally, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet finish before serving.

One family memory that stands out is how these cookies became a sweet tradition for birthday celebrations where both kids and adults would race to grab the kiss chocolate right from the center. Those moments of shared delight have made these cookies about more than just flavor, more like woven threads in the fabric of our family’s joyous gatherings.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for up to five days. If you want to extend their life, refrigeration is possible but expect a slightly firmer texture. For longer storage, freeze formed dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When you bake directly from frozen, just add a minute or two to the original baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have strawberry gelatin, you can substitute with strawberry flavoring or extract, though the cookie won’t be as vividly pink. Almond extract is optional but highly recommended as it complements the strawberry well; if you avoid nuts, simply omit it. Instead of chocolate kisses, feel free to use mini chocolate chips or your favorite chocolate candies for the surprise center.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies on a festive platter for parties or as a lovely homemade treat to brighten any day. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or alongside a steaming cup of tea or coffee. For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top or sprinkle a few chopped dried strawberries as garnish.

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a cheerful, nostalgic treat perfect for celebrations or everyday sweetness. They also freeze well, making them easy to enjoy later.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What gives these cookies their pink color?

The pink color comes from strawberry-flavored gelatin powder incorporated into the dough, adding both hue and flavor.

→ Can I substitute the chocolate kisses?

Yes, mini chocolate chips or other chocolate candies can be used to add a melty surprise inside the cookies.

→ Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms up the dough, preventing spreading during baking and helping maintain a soft, round shape.

→ How can I prevent the dough from being sticky?

Adding an extra tablespoon or two of flour and ensuring the dough is chilled helps manage stickiness for easier shaping.

→ Is almond extract necessary?

Almond extract is optional but adds a subtle nutty depth that complements the strawberry flavor nicely.