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Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a fun and flavorful cookie that combines the sweetness of strawberry with the richness of chocolate in every bite. These cookies are distinctively pink, thanks to the addition of strawberry gelatin mix, and are topped with a classic Hershey’s chocolate kiss candy for that perfect finish. The combination of vanilla and almond extract adds a warm, nutty aroma that complements the strawberry flavor beautifully. The soft and tender texture of these cookies makes them irresistible, while the crackly edges and vibrant pink color make them as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a fun treat for a special occasion or simply want to bake something that stands out, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, and with a few basic ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that are as delightful in flavor as they are in appearance. Let’s take a closer look at why this recipe is so special and how you can make these irresistible cookies at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique and Delicious Flavor

The combination of strawberry gelatin mix, vanilla, and almond extract creates a sweet, fruity, and slightly nutty flavor profile that’s truly unique. The rich chocolate kiss on top brings a perfect balance of sweetness to every bite.

2. Vibrant Pink Color

Thanks to the strawberry gelatin mix, these cookies have a beautiful pink color that makes them perfect for any festive occasion or to brighten up your cookie jar.

3. Irresistible Texture

The cookies are soft, tender, and slightly chewy with a slight crisp around the edges. The addition of butter and egg ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

4. Chocolate and Strawberry Combo

The classic combination of chocolate and strawberry is always a hit. The chocolate kiss adds a rich and creamy touch to the cookies, making them extra special.

5. Fun and Easy to Make

These cookies are simple to prepare and require only a few ingredients, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, the process of pressing the chocolate kisses into the warm cookies is a fun part of the recipe!

Ingredients

Softened unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (optional)
Strawberry gelatin mix (for flavor and color)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Chocolate kiss candies (for topping)

Variations

Different Gelatin Flavors: Swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry, cherry, or any other fruit flavor you prefer. This will give the cookies a different color and flavor while keeping the overall idea intact.
Add White Chocolate Chips: If you’re a fan of white chocolate, adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the dough can give these cookies an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts into the dough for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cookies.
Dipped in Chocolate: For extra indulgence, dip the edges of the cookies in melted chocolate before adding the kiss. This makes for an even richer chocolate experience.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and will help create a soft, tender cookie texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and strawberry gelatin mix. The gelatin mix will not only give the cookies their distinctive pink color but also infuse them with strawberry flavor.

Step 4: Mix the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough to ensure the cookies remain soft.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should be set but soft.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Kisses

As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature to make the creaming process easier and more effective.
Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find the dough too soft to handle, chilling it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes can help make it easier to shape.
Press Kisses Gently: When pressing the chocolate kiss into the cookie, do so gently to avoid breaking the cookie or squishing the kiss too much.
Use Parchment Paper: Parchment paper on the baking sheet will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

How to Serve

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them at parties, as a treat for a Valentine’s Day celebration, or during the holidays. They’re also great for bake sales or as a simple afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They make a delightful gift when packaged in a cute tin or wrapped in clear cellophane with a ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help keep them soft and fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat briefly in the oven.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh the cookies and slightly melt the chocolate kiss.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies without almond extract?

Yes, you can omit the almond extract if you prefer. The cookies will still taste great with just vanilla and strawberry.

2. Can I use sugar-free gelatin mix?

Yes, you can substitute sugar-free gelatin mix in this recipe, but keep in mind the cookies may be less sweet.

3. Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of the Hershey’s Kisses?

Definitely! You can use any type of chocolate candy you like, such as mini chocolate chips or chocolate chunks.

4. How can I make the cookies chewier?

To achieve a chewier texture, slightly reduce the baking time and make sure you don’t overmix the dough.

5. Can I add more strawberry flavor?

If you love the strawberry flavor, you can add extra strawberry extract or increase the amount of strawberry gelatin mix slightly.

6. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If you use salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the dough.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose gluten-free flour in place of regular flour. Just ensure the flour blend has a good structure to maintain the cookie’s texture.

8. How do I keep the chocolate kiss from melting too much?

Press the chocolate kiss gently into the cookie after baking, but do so while the cookie is still hot. The chocolate will melt slightly but will hold its shape better.

9. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges of the cookies should be golden, and the center should feel set but slightly soft when pressed gently. You don’t want to overbake them, as they can become too dry.

Conclusion

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a colorful and delicious treat that brings together the best of strawberry and chocolate flavors. With a soft, tender texture and the perfect pop of sweetness from the chocolate kiss, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for any occasion or just as a fun weekend baking project. So go ahead, try this recipe, and enjoy a batch of these sweet, pink cookies that are as delightful in flavor as they are in appearance!