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Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

4.7 from 113 reviews

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are soft, chewy cookies with a delicate strawberry flavor derived from strawberry gelatin powder. They are topped with a classic chocolate kiss candy, making them a delightful treat perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday snacking. The subtle almond extract complements the vanilla and strawberry notes, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 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

Topping

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
  • 2430 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy – this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Egg and Extracts: Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) into the creamed mixture. Beat well until all ingredients are fully combined.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix, ensuring an even distribution of the gelatin powder.
  5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or folding gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
  6. Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  7. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges appear set but the centers remain soft.
  8. Press Chocolate Kisses: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press one unwrapped chocolate kiss candy into the center of each cookie. The warmth will help the chocolate soften slightly and adhere.
  9. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute almond extract with more vanilla if almond flavor is not preferred.
  • Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
  • Using room temperature egg helps achieve a smoother dough consistency.
  • Press the chocolate kiss into the cookie immediately while warm; if the cookies cool too much, the candy might crack when pressed.
  • Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • For a stronger strawberry flavor, increase the strawberry gelatin mix slightly but be careful not to upset the dough balance.

Keywords: Strawberry cookies, kiss cookies, chocolate candy cookies, soft strawberry cookies, holiday cookies