There’s something special about Strawberry Kiss Cookies the way their sweet, fruity scent fills the kitchen and makes friends and family wander in for a taste. They are simple, charming, and just a little playful with a chocolate kiss tucked into the center. Clara believes baking should feel warm and manageable, and these cookies are a perfect place to start if you want a pretty result with honest, relaxed steps.

Baking cookies is a small ritual that rewards patience. If you enjoy easy cookie projects, you might also like exploring other comforting recipes like apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies, which bring that same cozy, home-baked feeling in a different way.

Why You’ll Love Making This Strawberry Kiss Cookies

I started making Strawberry Kiss Cookies on a quiet afternoon when I wanted something bright and fun for a neighbor visit. They looked like little flower buds and tasted like a simple, sunny dessert. The dough is soft and slightly pink from the gelatin mix, and the chocolate center makes each bite feel like a small celebration.

These cookies are worth the effort because they are:

• Easy to make, even if you’re new to baking.
• Visually appealing without complicated decorating.
• A hit with kids and adults alike.
• Flexible to tweak with a few simple swaps.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies or Your Kitchen Game Plan

“Cooking isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying every delicious step.”

Before we dive into the ingredients and the numbered directions, let’s set a short plan so your time in the kitchen feels calm.

• Timeline: 15 minutes prep, 1 hour chilling, 11–13 minutes baking, plus cooling.
• Tools: mixing bowls, electric mixer or sturdy whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, cookie scoop or tablespoon measure, wire rack.
• Keep the butter at room temperature so it creams easily. If you forget, softening for 20–30 seconds in the microwave on low power works in a pinch.

Now you’re ready for the ingredients and then we’ll move through the recipe step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened (use real butter for rich flavor)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional adds a lovely note)
2 cups + 2 tbsp (280g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped (use standard chocolate kisses; save a few extras for taste testing)

Notes:

• Softened butter means it yields when pressed but is not oily or melted.
• Room temperature egg mixes in smoothly and helps the dough join without overworking.
• The strawberry gelatin gives the dough a natural pink hue and a gentle strawberry taste.
• Powdered sugar is optional, but it gives a gentle dusting that looks pretty and bright.

Directions: Cooking with Confidence

1. PREPARE THE DOUGH: In a large mixing bowl, beat 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-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated. Stir until the color is even and the mixture smells faintly of strawberry.
2. MIX THE DRY INGREDIENTS: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the baking powder is evenly distributed so each cookie rises consistently.
3. COMBINE WET AND DRY: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour, one tablespoon at a time. You want a dough that holds its shape when scooped.
4. DO NOT PRESS AN INDENTATION BEFORE BAKING: Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking this will cause excess spreading. Instead, form smooth balls and chill them to keep the shape.
5. SHAPE & CHILL THE COOKIES: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results). This step is essential for preventing spreading and keeps edges neat.
6. BAKE: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly firm. The cookies may look soft in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
7. LET REST BRIEFLY: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. This pause helps the cookie set and prevents the center from collapsing when you add the chocolate.
8. DUST WITH POWDERED SUGAR: To avoid getting powdered sugar on the chocolate later, dust the cookies gently while they are warm on the sheet. Use a small sieve and a light hand so the sugar settles in a pretty, even layer.
9. ADD THE CHOCOLATE KISSES: After dusting, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The residual heat will help the chocolate stick without melting too much. If a kiss begins to melt too much, let the cookie cool for an extra minute on the sheet before pressing.
10. COOL COMPLETELY: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set and the powdered sugar to look soft rather than cakey.

Final note on timing: The cookies are best the same day for texture, but they still taste wonderful the next day. When you bake, keep the oven temperature steady and don’t overbake. You want a slight give in the center as they come out of the oven.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies and Make It Shine

These cookies are sweet, tender, and look lovely on a simple plate. Serve them slightly warm or at room temperature. A few serving ideas:

• Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
• Offer them alongside a pot of tea or a light coffee for a simple afternoon pick-me-up.
• Place them on a pretty platter with fresh strawberries or a few mint leaves for a bright, fresh contrast.
• For a party, arrange cookies in neat rows with small doilies for a charming presentation.

If you are serving to a crowd, place the cookies in small clusters of three so people can sample without clearing a whole plate. A shallow bowl of extra kisses in the center makes a playful touch.

How to Store Strawberry Kiss Cookies for Later

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer them with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes if you prefer them slightly warm.

If you need to save dough, roll the chilled dough balls and freeze them on a sheet until solid. Move the frozen balls to a labeled bag. When ready to bake, place chilled dough balls on the baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time. This method keeps life easy on busy days.

For reheating, a few seconds in the microwave can soften the chocolate for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel. Just watch closely so the cookie does not become too soft.

Clara’s Tips for Success

1. Use real butter for the best flavor. Margarine changes texture and leaves a different mouthfeel.
2. Chill the dough well. Chilled dough prevents spreading and keeps the cookies neat and round.
3. If your kitchen is warm, place the cookie sheet in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.
4. Swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry gelatin if you want a slightly tangier note.
5. If powdered sugar clumps, sift it before dusting for a delicate finish.

These small adjustments come from practice and make a big difference in the final cookie. Trust your senses: look for slightly set edges, smell the sweet strawberry, and test one to see if the texture feels right.

Simple Variations to Try

1. Chocolate-Drizzle Kiss Cookies: After the chocolate sets, use a fork to drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a two-tone look. Let set on a rack.
2. Nutty Center: Press a chocolate kiss that contains almonds or add a thin almond slice under the kiss for extra crunch.
3. Filled Version: Make a small thumbprint in the dough before chilling and fill with a teaspoon of strawberry jam, then bake and add a kiss after cooling for a jammy variation.
4. Mini Version: Use half-tablespoon scoops and mini kisses to make bite-size treats. Adjust baking time to 8–10 minutes.
5. Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the dough for a bright note that complements the strawberry flavor.

These ideas are easy to test and enjoyable for a family baking session. Try one variation at a time so you can notice how each change affects the texture and flavor.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These delightful cookies feature a soft, pink dough with chocolate kisses in the center, offering a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and rich chocolate.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 13 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 28 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 110

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Cookie Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use real butter for rich flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature Room temperature egg mixes in smoothly.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract Optional; adds a lovely note.
• 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder Ensure even distribution for consistent rising.
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix Gives the dough a pink hue.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting Optional for a pretty finish.
• 24-30 pieces chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped Use standard chocolate kisses.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and beat until well combined.
3. Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated.
4. Stir until the color is even and the mixture has a faint strawberry smell.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms.
7. If the dough is too soft or sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour as needed.
8. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, roll into a smooth ball, and place on a baking sheet.
9. Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges are set and slightly firm.
4. Remove cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes.
5. Dust the cookies gently with powdered sugar while warm on the sheet.
6. Gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
7. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 50mgSugar: 8g

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage. For best texture, consume on the same day but they still taste great on the next day.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

FAQs About Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Final Encouragement or Closing Note

Baking Strawberry Kiss Cookies is a gentle, joyful project. The dough is forgiving, the steps are simple, and the result feels special. Clara wants you to know that small, steady actions in the kitchen make a big difference. Take your time with chilling and baking, trust your eyes and touch, and enjoy the sweet smell that fills your home. You can do this.

Conclusion

I hope this Strawberry Kiss Cookies recipe helps you discover how simple and rewarding homemade baking can be. If you want inspiration for other cozy cookie projects, I found a lovely, comforting take on similar classics at Strawberry Kiss Cookies – Mama Needs Cake®, and another playful version at Strawberry Kiss Cookies – Yummi Haus. Happy baking you’ve got this.