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These strawberry kiss cookies combine a soft buttery base with a burst of strawberry flavor and a chocolatey center that creates a delightful treat for any occasion. The recipe balances sweetness and texture in a way that makes each bite memorable without being overly rich.
My family fell in love with these cookies the first time I baked them during a weekend gathering and now they are a requested dessert for every celebration
Gather Your Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: softly softened to help create a tender crumb and rich flavor be sure to avoid melted butter here to maintain the right texture
- Granulated sugar: for sweetness and structure if you prefer a softer cookie you could reduce sugar slightly but it will affect the texture
- One large egg: at room temperature to bind ingredients and provide moisture
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth to the flavor opt for pure vanilla extract for the best aroma
- Almond extract: optional but it enhances the strawberry and chocolate notes especially if you enjoy subtle nutty undertones
- All-purpose flour: provides the body of the cookie choose a freshly milled or high-quality brand for a better bite
- Baking powder: leavens cookies for lightness ensure it is fresh for proper rising
- Salt: balances sweetness and enhances other flavors do not skip
- Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix: is the star ingredient that infuses the dough with bright strawberry flavor and color pick a trusted brand for consistent taste
- Powdered sugar dusting: adds a pretty snowy finish and a light sweetness contrast
- Chocolate kiss candies: unwrapped for the signature classic center a smooth melting chocolate that pairs beautifully with the strawberry
How to Make It
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy about two to three minutes This step is crucial as it introduces air which helps make cookies tender next add the egg vanilla extract and almond extract if using Beat again until fully combined then mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder thoroughly so the color and flavor are evenly distributed
- Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes Chilling firms up the butter which helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and enhances flavor development
- Preheat Oven and Line Baking Sheet:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit approximately 175 degrees Celsius Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat This prevents sticking and promotes even baking
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop the chilled dough using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop and roll gently into balls Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart to allow for spreading
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are slightly golden but centers remain soft Be careful not to overbake as it will dry out the cookies
- Add Chocolate Kisses:
- Remove from the oven and immediately press an unwrapped chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie The heat will soften the chocolate slightly making it meld beautifully with the cookie
- Cool and Dust:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely To finish dust lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate sweet touch
The strawberry gelatin powder is the ingredient that truly transforms these cookies I remember making a batch with my kids and watching their eyes light up as the dough turned pink and the aroma filled the kitchen It quickly became a bonding moment and a recipe that will always remind us of those joyful afternoons
Flavor Boosters
Storage Tips Store these cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature They can stay fresh this way for up to four days If you want to keep them longer nestle pieces of bread in the container to help maintain moisture and softness
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies alongside a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea to complement their sweetness They also pair wonderfully with fresh strawberries or a light whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience Consider arranging them on a festive platter for parties where their charming look and taste will surely impress
Creative Twists
Cultural Context Strawberry kiss cookies are a variation of classic thumbprint cookies which have roots in many European baking traditions These cookies have evolved with local twists like flavored gelatin to suit modern tastes around family-friendly gatherings and holidays Seasonal Adaptations In spring and summer you can freshen the recipe by adding finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries into the dough for extra texture During holidays consider swapping strawberry gelatin for peppermint or orange flavors to create seasonal variations Infusing the dough with a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest can give a fresh twist that works well year-round
These strawberry kiss cookies are a delightful blend of fruit and chocolate perfect for any celebration or casual treat.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What gives these cookies their strawberry flavor?
The strawberry flavor comes from the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder mixed into the dough, adding a gentle fruity note.
- → Can I use different candies instead of chocolate kisses?
Yes, other small chocolate candies or similar sweets can be substituted, but chocolate kisses provide a classic finishing touch.
- → How do I ensure the cookies stay soft?
Make sure not to overbake them and use softened butter when mixing the dough for a tender texture.
- → Is almond extract necessary in the cookie dough?
No, almond extract is optional and can be omitted if preferred; vanilla extract provides sufficient flavor.
- → Can the powdered sugar dusting be skipped?
Yes, powdered sugar is optional and mainly adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal.