Just the other day, while flipping through old recipe books, I stumbled upon a treasure that brought back sweet memories: Strawberry Kiss Cookies. These delightful treats not only offer a beautiful pop of pink but also surprise you with a luscious chocolate kiss hidden in the center. With their buttery texture and uncomplicated cake mix base, they are a breeze to whip up—making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just entering the kitchen realm. These cookies are not only an eye-catching dessert but also a crowd-pleaser, ideal for celebrations or simply to elevate your afternoon snack routine. Have you ever tasted a cookie that can brighten your day in an instant? Well, you’re about to!
Why Try Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Irresistible sweetness: The combination of strawberry cake mix and chocolate kisses creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to delight all ages.
Easy to make: This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for beginners or busy chefs alike.
Perfect for gifting: Share these eye-catching cookies at parties or as delightful homemade gifts that are sure to impress.
Versatile options: Try swapping in different cake mixes or chocolate types for unique variations, just as you could with our Nutella Marshmallow Cookies.
Guaranteed crowd-pleaser: With their appealing look and taste, everyone will be clamoring for cookies, making them your new go-to treat!
Strawberry Kiss Cookie Ingredients
-
For the Cookie Base
• Strawberry Cake Mix – This is the magic ingredient that provides sweetness and a lovely strawberry flavor; feel free to explore other flavored cake mixes for variety.
• Butter (8 tbsp, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; using unsalted butter helps you control the flavor beautifully.
• Egg (1 large) – Acts as a binder to hold the cookie together.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Gives the cookies that soft, pillowy texture; you can swap it with mascarpone for a different flavor twist. -
For the Sweet Surprise
• Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (30, unwrapped) – A delightful melty surprise in each cookie that makes them irresistible; this is what makes them Strawberry Kiss Cookies! -
For the Finishing Touch
• Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar (optional) – Dust these cookies for a beautiful presentation and added sweetness that enhances their visual appeal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and large egg. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended and form a smooth dough. The mixture should be thick and somewhat sticky. This step lays the foundation for your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, so ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Add Cream Cheese
Next, add the softened cream cheese into the dough mixture and blend thoroughly. Use a sturdy spatula or an electric mixer on low speed for about 1–2 minutes until the dough is thick and creamy. This addition will create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these cookies so delightful.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the dough set and prevents spreading during baking, ensuring your Strawberry Kiss Cookies maintain their lovely shape and texture.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while lining baking sheets with parchment paper. The parchment will ensure your cookies bake evenly and can effortlessly be lifted off the sheets later. This step prepares your kitchen for the baking magic that’s about to happen!
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough from the chilled mixture and roll them into smooth balls. If desired, roll each ball in powdered sugar or pink granulated sugar for a lovely finish. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should look set while the centers remain soft and chewy. Removing them from the oven at this stage will ensure your Strawberry Kiss Cookies retain their delightful texture.
Step 7: Add the Sweet Surprise
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for 1–2 minutes after baking. Gently press an unwrapped chocolate Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. This will create that irresistible melty surprise that defines your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Letting them cool will enhance their texture, and they’ll be ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and savor these sweet treats whenever you desire a delightful pick-me-up!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
-
Dough Chilling: Allow the dough to chill for a full hour. This is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
-
Avoid Fresh Fruit: Steer clear of adding fresh strawberries. The moisture can lead to a runny dough, ruining the texture of your cookies.
-
Perfect Baking Time: Watch the cookies closely! Remove them when the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked for that chewy, soft texture.
-
Store Properly: Keep the Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them without dusting.
-
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch up the cake mixes or chocolate types to give these cookies your unique spin!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Bring joy to any gathering or cozy evening with these delightful treats that pair perfectly with an array of delicious accompaniments.
-
Chilled Milk: The classic partner to cookies, a glass of cold milk enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
-
Strawberry Lemonade: This refreshing drink complements the strawberry flavor, adding a zesty twist that infuses fun into your dessert experience.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies, especially when paired with a warm, melty center.
-
Fresh Berries: A vibrant side of fresh strawberries or raspberries brings a touch of summer and a burst of color, enhancing the fruity goodness.
-
Chocolate Fondue: Dip your cookies into melted chocolate for an indulgent experience that transforms your dessert into a lavish treat worthy of special celebrations.
-
Creamy Whipped Topping: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side; its light and airy texture contrasts beautifully with the dense cookies.
-
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee or espresso adds warmth and balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for a comforting pairing at any time of day.
-
Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy seasonal fruits adds freshness and a healthful touch, creating a colorful contrast that brightens your dessert table.
-
Sparkling Water: For a light refreshment, fizzy sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime elevates your dessert experience without overpowering the flavors.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Strawberry Kiss Cookies that will surprise and delight your taste buds!
-
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that’s perfect alongside the sweetness of the strawberry. This zesty touch gives a beautiful balance.
-
Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough to introduce a delicious crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft cookie texture. The nuttiness elevates each bite!
-
Cream Cheese Frosting: After the cookies have cooled, top them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat. This will turn your cookies into mini cakes that are irresistible!
-
Dark Chocolate Kisses: Swap out the milk chocolate kisses for dark chocolate for a richer flavor pairing with the strawberry sweetness. This variation adds a touch of sophistication to your cookies.
-
Coconut Flakes: Mix in ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist. The chewy texture of the coconut will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite!
-
Chili Heat: If you enjoy a little kick, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle spice that amplifies your cookie’s flavor profile. It’s an adventurous change for sure!
-
Sugar-Free Delight: For a healthier take, use sugar-free cake mix and sweeteners instead. These cookies can be enjoyed by those observing dietary restrictions while remaining just as delightful!
-
Candy Mix: Combine your chocolate kisses with your favorite candy pieces like M&M’s or caramel bits to create a fun cookie explosion. The more, the merrier when it comes to your treats!
Want to continue your cookie journey? Don’t forget to check out our delicious Soft Pumpkin Cookies or the indulgent Nutella Marshmallow Cookies for even more delightful recipes!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be made ahead of time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then covering it tightly before refrigerating. This chilling period enhances the flavor and texture. To finish, simply scoop the dough into balls, bake for 8–10 minutes, and add the chocolate kisses as directed. If you prefer to bake them on a later date, you can roll the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delightful homemade cookies ready whenever you need them!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you plan to keep them longer than 3 days, the cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to seal them well to avoid them drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Strawberry Kiss Cookies without dusting them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover cookies, thaw them at room temperature and reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right strawberry cake mix for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing a strawberry cake mix, look for one that contains natural ingredients and avoids artificial flavors or colors. The more natural the mix, the better the flavor. You can also opt for gluten-free cake mixes if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions!
How should I store my Strawberry Kiss Cookies, and how long will they last?
For the best taste and texture, store Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you don’t plan to eat them within that timeframe, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they’re well-sealed to keep them from drying out.
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies, and if so, how do I do it?
Definitely! To freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they are not dusted with sugar to prevent clumping. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, and for a warm treat, reheat briefly in the microwave.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky, or my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very common! If your dough is too sticky, chill it longer in the refrigerator for an additional 15–30 minutes. This helps firm up the butter and increases the dough’s ability to hold shape while baking. If your cookies still spread too much after chilling, you may need to try reducing the melted butter slightly in your next batch.
Are there any dietary considerations when making Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies are vegetarian, but if you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider using dairy-free butter and cream cheese substitutes for those with lactose intolerance or full allergies. Always check the labels of your chocolate candies for potential allergens, as some varieties contain nuts or gluten.
Can I add real strawberries to the dough for extra flavor?
It’s tempting, but I recommend against it. Fresh strawberries can add too much moisture to the dough, resulting in a runny consistency. Stick with the cake mix for that perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies: Soft Bites with Melty Chocolate Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and large egg until smooth.
- Add the softened cream cheese and blend thoroughly until the dough is thick and creamy.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the dough.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F while lining baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, optionally rolling them in sugar before placing them on baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Press an unwrapped Hershey's Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Leave a Reply