I love recipes that feel like little warm hugs. These Strawberry Kiss Cookies do that. They are soft, pink, and a bit nostalgic. They bake up light and tender. Kids love them. I often pair them with other fruity treats like my strawberry crunch cookies when I bring a tray to a get-together.

why make this recipe

These cookies are cheerful and simple. The strawberry gelatin gives them a gentle flavor and pretty color. They stay soft for days. They look special with a chocolate kiss on top. You don’t need fancy tools. Just a bowl, a mixer, and a chilled dough. They are perfect for valentines, bake sales, or quiet afternoons.

how to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Ingredients:
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, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting, 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Directions:

PREPARE THE DOUGH: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat until combined. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder until the mixture is evenly pink.
MIX DRY INGREDIENTS: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry mix to the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add 1–2 extra tablespoons of flour.
SHAPE & CHILL: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into balls. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. Chilling prevents spreading.
BAKE: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange chilled dough balls about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking. Bake 11–13 minutes, until the edges look set and slightly firm. The centers may look soft. They will firm as they cool.
POWDER & KISS: Remove cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Lightly dust the warm cookies with powdered sugar first to avoid getting sugar on the chocolate. Then gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while still warm so it adheres.
COOL: Transfer cookies to a wire rack. Let them cool completely so the chocolate sets.

how to serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Serve them at room temperature. Arrange them on a pretty plate. They pair well with a simple glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For a themed platter, I like to mix textures and add a few crisp cookies like my strawberry crunch cookies for contrast.

how to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies (without the kisses) in a single layer on a sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and press on fresh kisses if you like.

tips to make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Use room-temperature butter and egg for an even dough.
Chill the dough well. Chilling helps keep the cookies round and soft.
Beat the butter and sugar until light. That adds air and a softer crumb.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar while the cookies are still warm. Then press the kisses in gently. This keeps the chocolate neat.
If you plan a themed tray for a party, try pairing with a simple loaf or cookie like my Valentine strawberry cookies for a cute set.

variation (if any)

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to brighten the flavor. Swap the chocolate kisses for white chocolate chips for a different look. For a fun twist, press a mini jam cookie into the center instead of a kiss. If you want a denser, cakier result, try folding in an extra tablespoon of flour and see how you like it. For a completely different fruit vibe, consider baking a batch alongside my banana bread cookies for variety.

FAQs

Q: Can I use flavored gelatin other than strawberry?
A: Yes. The cookie will take on the flavor and color of the gelatin you choose. Keep the amount the same.

Q: Why do my cookies spread?
A: Most often it’s because the dough wasn’t chilled enough. Also check that your butter wasn’t too soft. Chill the dough for at least an hour before baking.

Q: When should I add the powdered sugar and chocolate kisses?
A: Dust the warm cookies first to avoid sugar on the chocolate. Then press the kisses in while the cookies are still warm so they stick.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies

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