Strawberry Kiss Cookies (Print Version)

Soft cookies infused with strawberry flavor, topped with a gooey chocolate kiss for a delightful treat.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
06 - 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1 package (3 ounces) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
10 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

→ Topping

11 - 24-30 pieces chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
02 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using; continue beating until the mixture is fully combined. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until a soft, pink dough forms. If dough is too sticky, incorporate 1 to 2 additional tablespoons of flour.
05 - Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of dough, rolling it into smooth balls. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to firm the dough and prevent spreading.
06 - Heat the oven to 350°F. Place chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Avoid indenting the dough to minimize spreading.
07 - Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until edges appear set and lightly firm while centers remain slightly soft.
08 - Remove cookies from the oven, letting them rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Press one unwrapped chocolate kiss gently into the center of each warm cookie to allow slight melting without excessive spreading.
09 - Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Prior to baking, dust dough balls with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

# Extra Tips & Details:

01 - Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal texture. Do not overmix after adding dry ingredients to prevent toughness. Chilling dough is essential to maintain shape during baking.