Strawberry Kiss Cookies Delight

Strawberry Kiss Cookies combine the soft, buttery goodness of a classic cookie with the bright, cheerful flavor of strawberry and the rich surprise of melted chocolate. These cookies bring a festive touch to any gathering with their pretty pink color and a chocolate kiss at the center that melts into the dough just right. Baking them fills your kitchen with a sweet aroma that invites smiles and togetherness, making every batch a memorable treat.

I first made these during a family holiday, and they quickly became a beloved tradition everyone looks forward to. They are as much about joy in baking as they are about enjoying each bite.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: One cup unsalted butter softened for creamy richness and smooth dough
• Granulated sugar: One cup granulated sugar essential for sweetness and tender cookies
• Egg: One large egg at room temperature to bind ingredients and add moisture
• Vanilla extract: One teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor with warmth
• Almond extract: Half teaspoon almond extract optional but highly recommended for subtle nuttiness
• All purpose flour: Two cups plus two tablespoons all purpose flour provides structure and balances softness
• Baking powder: One teaspoon baking powder raises the cookies for a light texture
• Salt: Quarter teaspoon salt brightens the flavors and balances sweetness
• Strawberry gelatin mix: One package threeounce strawberryflavored gelatin mix for that lovely pink color and fruity taste
• Powdered sugar: Quarter cup powdered sugar for dusting gives a finishing touch of elegance
• Chocolate kiss candies: Twentyfour to thirty unwrapped chocolate kiss candies to create the melty centerpiece surprise

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl on medium speed until light and fluffy about two to three minutes. This step is key to incorporating air which gives the cookies a tender crumb. Add the egg vanilla extract and almond extract if using mixing until fully combined. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder thoroughly so the dough turns a uniform pink hue.

Whisk Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl carefully whisk together the flour baking powder and salt. This ensures these ingredients are evenly mixed and stops any clumps from forming in the dough.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Continue until a soft pink dough forms. If the dough feels overly sticky gradually add one or two more tablespoons of flour until it becomes manageable but still soft.

Shape and Chill the Cookies:

Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms into smooth balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the refrigerator and chill the dough balls for at least one hour or overnight for the best results. Chilling is essential to prevent spreading and creates nicely shaped cookies.

Bake the Cookies:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (one seventyfive Celsius). Take the chilled dough balls and space them about two inches apart on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for eleven to thirteen minutes until the edges look set and are slightly firm though the centers can remain soft because they firm up as they cool.

Add the Chocolate Kisses:

Once taken out from the oven let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for two minutes. While still warm gently press a chocolate kiss candy into the center of each cookie. The residual heat will soften the chocolate just enough without melting it completely.

Cool Completely:

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool all the way. This step is important so the chocolate sets well and the cookies hold their shape.

Dust with Powdered Sugar:

For a final touch lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a sweet elegance and complements the strawberry and chocolate flavors perfectly.

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One holiday season I shared these with family and watching everyone’s delight as they bit into the gooey chocolate surprise reminded me why this recipe is such a treasure.

Storage Tips

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to five days. Refrigeration can extend their life but may make them a bit firmer. For longer storage freeze the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet. Once frozen transfer them to a sealed bag and bake directly from the freezer adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If strawberry gelatin is not available you can use strawberry flavoring or extract but expect a lighter color. Almond extract can be left out or swapped with a small amount of coconut or hazelnut extract for a flavor twist. Chocolate kiss candies may be replaced with mini chocolate chips or other chocolate candies depending on preference and availability.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies as a colorful dessert at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch try drizzling them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

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These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are festive easy to make and perfect for sharing. Enjoy baking them with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What gives these cookies their pink color?

The pink hue comes from strawberry-flavored gelatin powder incorporated into the dough, which also adds a pleasant fruity essence.

→ Can I substitute gelatin with something else?

Yes, you can use strawberry flavoring or extract as a substitute, although the pink color might be less vibrant.

→ What is the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough balls in the refrigerator before baking firms up the dough, helping the cookies retain a soft, round shape during baking.

→ Can other chocolates replace the chocolate kisses?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips or other chocolate candies work well, creating a delicious surprise in the center.

→ How should these cookies be stored to keep freshness?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain softness and flavor.

→ Why is butter temperature important in making these cookies?

Using butter at room temperature ensures proper creaming with sugar, which contributes to a tender and fluffy cookie texture.