Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, blending the softness of buttery cookies with the flavor of strawberries and a chocolate kiss in the center. Their bright pink color makes them festive and ideal for holidays like Valentine’s Day, birthday parties, or cozy family baking sessions. What’s even better? This recipe is so easy that even beginners can nail it! Whether you’re baking for loved ones or indulging your own sweet tooth, these cookies will not disappoint.

Freshly baked Strawberry Kiss Cookies with powdered sugar and chocolate centers

Love strawberry desserts? Check out this creamy Strawberry Cheesecake recipe for another irresistible treat!

Why you’ll love this recipe

These cookies are more than just tasty — they’re little moments of happiness on a plate. Here’s what makes them special:

Fun and festive: Their bright pink hue instantly uplifts any dessert table.
Soft and buttery: Each bite melts in your mouth with a tender, buttery texture.
Delicious flavor combination: The sweet strawberry dough pairs perfectly with a chocolate kiss.
Beginner-friendly: No complicated steps, so anyone can bake them!

Hosting a party? Pair your Strawberry Kiss Cookies with this rich Chocolate Trifle for a show-stopping dessert table.

Ingredients for the perfect batch

Key ingredients for making Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Ingredient	Purpose
Unsalted butter (1 cup)	Adds moisture and gives the cookies their soft, rich texture.
Granulated sugar (1 cup)	Provides sweetness and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Large egg (1)	Binds the dough and adds richness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp)	Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.
Almond extract (½ tsp, optional)	Gives a nutty hint to complement the strawberry flavor.
All-purpose flour (2 cups)	Creates structure and keeps the cookies soft.
Baking powder (1 tsp)	Gives the cookies a slight rise and airy texture.
Salt (¼ tsp)	Balances the sweetness.
Strawberry-flavored gelatin (3 oz)	Provides that signature pink color and strawberry flavor.
Powdered sugar (¼ cup)	For a decorative dusting after baking.
Chocolate kiss candies (24-30)	The final chocolaty touch in the cookie’s center.

ingredient substitutions and variations

No strawberry gelatin? No problem! Here’s how you can switch things up:

Berry substitutions: Replace strawberry gelatin with raspberry or cherry-flavored gelatin for a different fruity twist.
Natural option: If you want to skip artificial flavoring, add fresh strawberry puree and a few drops of food coloring instead.
Gluten-free version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

For more romantic desserts, these heart-shaped macarons are a must-try!

Essential tools for preparation

Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

Tool	Purpose
Baking sheet	To bake the cookies evenly.
Parchment paper	Prevents the cookies from sticking to the sheet.
Hand mixer or stand mixer	Helps to cream the butter and sugar to the right consistency.
Measuring cups and spoons	Ensures you get accurate ingredient measurements.
Wire cooling rack	Allows the cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy.

Pro tips for success

Use room-temperature ingredients: Butter and eggs mix better when they’re at room temperature, ensuring a smooth dough.
Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until the flour is incorporated to prevent tough cookies.
Perfect indentations: Twist your thumb or a teaspoon gently into the dough for smooth and neat dips.

Pair your Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a refreshing Strawberry Matcha Latte for a perfect flavor match!

Step-by-step guide: How to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

1. Preparing the dough

This is where the magic begins! Mixing the ingredients properly ensures soft, fluffy cookies.

Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is key to getting the right texture!
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined.
Incorporate the gelatin: Beat in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder, and watch the dough turn that signature pink color!
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a soft dough. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies dense.

2. Shaping and indenting the dough

Shaping the dough properly ensures uniform cookies and that perfect center for the chocolate kiss.

Roll the dough into balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your hands to form smooth balls.
Place on a baking sheet: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread.
Make the indentation: Gently press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball, twisting slightly to create a smooth, round dip.

3. Baking to perfection

The key to delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies is in how you bake them!

Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies are ready when the edges are set and faint cracks appear, but the centers should still be soft.
Cool slightly: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

If you enjoy baking cookies, don’t miss this recipe for Red Velvet Cookies with cream cheese frosting.

4. Adding the chocolate kiss

This step transforms these cookies into something extra special!

Press the chocolate kiss: While the cookies are still warm, gently press an unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The residual warmth will slightly soften the chocolate, allowing it to stick without melting.
Cool completely: Let the cookies cool on the wire rack until the chocolate kiss firms up.

5. Finishing touches

Give your cookies a final festive flair with a light dusting of powdered sugar! Once the cookies are fully cooled, sprinkle them evenly to create that bakery-style finish.

Serving and gifting ideas

Freshly baked Strawberry Kiss Cookies cooling on a rack

These cookies aren’t just for snacking—they’re a great addition to any celebration or gift box.

Party-ready platter: Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Valentine’s Day gift jars: Stack the cookies in a decorative jar, tie a ribbon around it, and you’ve got a sweet handmade gift.
Coffee pairing: Serve them with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

For a full breakfast or brunch spread, complement these cookies with fluffy homemade pancakes.

Expert tips for perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Want to make your cookies even better? These tips will help you achieve bakery-level perfection every time.

Room-temperature ingredients: Always ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This allows for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough and softer cookies.
Don’t skip chilling if needed: If the dough feels too sticky or soft to handle, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before rolling it into balls.
Make clean indentations: For a professional look, gently twist your thumb or the back of a spoon into the dough when creating the indentation. This avoids cracks and uneven dips.
Avoid overbaking: Take the cookies out of the oven as soon as the edges set and faint cracks appear. The centers should still be slightly soft. Overbaking can result in dry cookies.
Cool before dusting: Ensure the cookies have cooled completely before dusting them with powdered sugar to avoid the sugar melting into the warm cookies.

Hosting a brunch? Pair your Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a refreshing Strawberry Matcha Latte for the ultimate flavor combo!

FAQs about Strawberry Kiss Cookies

What can I substitute for strawberry-flavored gelatin mix?

If you don’t have strawberry gelatin, you can use raspberry or cherry-flavored gelatin for a similar fruity taste. Alternatively, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of strawberry puree along with a few drops of red food coloring to achieve the pink color naturally.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Just ensure that the other ingredients, like the gelatin mix and chocolate kisses, are gluten-free as well.

How do I store these cookies for freshness?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for two weeks or freeze them for up to three months.

What should I do if the chocolate kisses melt too much?

Allow the cookies to cool slightly (about 2-3 minutes) before pressing the chocolate kiss into the center. The residual heat will soften the chocolate enough to adhere, but waiting a bit prevents it from melting excessively.

What’s the secret to getting a uniform pink color in the dough?

Ensure that the strawberry gelatin mix is fully incorporated into the butter and sugar before adding the dry ingredients. This step ensures an even color throughout the dough.

Troubleshooting common problems

Problem	Cause	Solution
Cookies spreading too much	Butter was too warm, or flour was under-measured.	Use room-temperature butter, and measure flour correctly using the spoon-and-level method.
Cracks in the dough	Overmixed dough or cold dough.	Mix just until combined, and let the dough sit at room temperature before baking if chilled.
Chocolate kiss melts entirely	Added the chocolate too soon or the oven was too hot.	Allow the cookies to cool slightly before pressing the kiss in, and ensure proper oven temp.
Dough is too sticky to handle	Butter may have been too soft, or the dough wasn’t chilled.	Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before rolling into balls.

Want more cookie ideas? Don’t miss this recipe for Red Velvet Cookies with cream cheese frosting.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are more than just a dessert — they’re a symbol of celebration and joy. Their bright pink hue, soft buttery texture, and chocolate-filled centers make them perfect for any special occasion or a cozy weekend treat. Whether you’re baking them for a loved one, giving them as gifts, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.

So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and enjoy the process of baking something truly delightful. Don’t forget to dust them with powdered sugar for that finishing touch. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, try experimenting with flavors and share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!

If you’re planning a dessert spread, pair these cookies with a decadent Chocolate Trifle for a show-stopping combination.