There are some cookies that are delicious—and then there are ones that make you smile just by looking at them. Strawberry Kiss Cookies fall squarely into the second category. With rosy‑pink, buttery dough, a sweet kiss of chocolate in the center, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, these treats are as lovely to display as they are satisfying to eat.
These cookies are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or birthdays—or anytime you want something girly, charming, and fun to bake. They combine the nostalgia of thumbprint cookies with a playful twist: strawberry gelatin for color and flavor, then a chocolate “kiss” pressed (or gently placed) into each baked cookie.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Kiss Cookies 🍓🍫
- Flavor & Color: The use of strawberry‑flavored gelatin gives both color and taste—bright, sweet, and nostalgic.
- Texture: Soft, tender, slightly crisp at the edges but still moist inside.
- Presentation: Powdered sugar dusting + chocolate kiss = cute, festive, and highly giftable.
- Customizable: You can tweak the flavor (almond extract is optional), adjust the color, and even modify the thickness by chilling longer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tablespoons (about 280 g) all‑purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry‑flavored gelatin mix
- ¼ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 24‑30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2‑3 minutes). Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until well combined. Mix in the strawberry gelatin powder until evenly incorporated. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until a soft pink dough forms. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add 1‑2 tablespoons more flour. - Shape & Chill
Roll the dough into 1‑inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on a parchment‑lined baking sheet. Chill the dough balls for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to help them hold their shape when baking. - Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Space chilled dough balls about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet. Bake for 11‑13 minutes, until the edges are set. Cookies will be slightly soft in the center when they come out but will firm as they cool. - Add the Chocolate Kiss
Let the cookies sit for 2 minutes after baking. Then gently press an unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat will help it adhere without melting too much. - Cool & Dust
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar for a classic, pretty finish.
Timing, Yield & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 11‑13 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
Estimated Nutrition per Cookie:
- Calories: ~94
- Fat: ~2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~1 g
- Carbohydrates: ~16 g
- Sugar: ~7 g
- Protein: ~2 g
Expert Tips & Variations
- Prevent Spreading: Be sure to chill the dough long enough. Also, measure your flour accurately to ensure the cookies keep their shape.
- Color Tips: Want a deeper pink? Add a drop of food coloring or use natural strawberry powder for more vibrant color.
- Kiss Placement: For the cleanest look, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar first, then place the chocolate kiss after.
- Flavor Twist: The almond extract adds a warm, nutty hint—but if you prefer a purer strawberry‑vanilla flavor, skip it.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are versatile, sweet, and festive. Here are some fun ways to serve them:
- Add them to a Valentine’s Day dessert board alongside chocolate‑dipped strawberries.
- Bake a double batch for birthdays, baby showers, or tea parties.
- Include them in a holiday cookie gift tin.
- Pair them with milk, strawberry milkshakes, or white hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Final Thoughts 🍓🍫
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the kind of treat that brings joy to both the baker and the lucky ones who get to eat them. With their delightful flavor, soft texture, and whimsical charm, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for someone special or treating yourself, these cookies deliver love in every bite.