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Imagine you step into a cozy kitchen on a crisp afternoon. You smell butter, sugar, and a whisper of strawberry floating in the air. A big bowl of rosy cookie dough greets your eyes, ready to be shaped into soft, chewy delights. These are Strawberry Kiss Cookies, and they feel like a bright burst of joy in every bite.
I’m originally from Norway, and I recall winter days when the sun would dip behind the mountains before dinnertime. My grandmother always invited me for a baking session to keep the darkness at bay. We didn’t have these exact pink cookies back then, but she passed along something more precious—her playful spirit and love for the simple act of baking. Now, I’m excited to share that spirit with you and your family here in the United States.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make these soft pink cookies that can put a smile on anyone’s face. We’ll explore step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, and a fun FAQ section. By the end, you’ll be all set to whip up these Strawberry Kiss Cookies in your own kitchen. Let’s get started.
Why Strawberry Kiss Cookies Spark Joy
The first time I made these Strawberry Kiss Cookies, I couldn’t stop smiling. They were so pink and festive. I felt like a little kid again, standing on a chair to reach the counter, waiting eagerly for the timer to ring.
What I love most is how they combine a fruity strawberry flavor with a chocolatey middle. If you’ve ever had strawberry truffle kiss cookies or pink blossom cookies, you know the feeling: that sweet, berry-like aroma balanced by a melty chocolate center. It’s a match made in cookie heaven.
I like to think these cookies are perfect for all kinds of celebrations, from birthdays to cozy nights in. They work especially well for Valentine’s Day or any day you crave some extra color on the table. The recipe is straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner, you’ll succeed. And trust me, once you share these with friends or neighbors, you’ll be the hero of the hour.
Memories of My Grandmother’s Kitchen
I grew up in a small Norwegian village. Winter nights stretched endlessly, but they were never lonely. My grandmother’s kitchen glowed with warmth and soft lamplight. She had flour sacks stacked in a corner, a wooden rolling pin that had seen decades of use, and a bowl of sugar always ready.
She taught me that baking is not just about mixing ingredients. It’s about sharing stories, humming a happy tune, and taking time to smell the batter. Of course, we didn’t have strawberry hershey kiss cookies back then, but we made all sorts of sweet buns and pastries that brightened our cold days.
Fast forward to my adult life, I still carry her philosophy. When I make these pink cookies, I let myself be playful. I might swirl some extra color into the dough or shape them into hearts. The point is to keep that carefree spark alive. Baking can be a source of comfort, reminding us that small, simple things can bring great delight.
Key Ingredients for Soft Pink Cookies
Before you dive in, gather the following ingredients. You’ll see nothing is too fancy, but each element plays a key role in creating these pink blossom cookies:
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
Room temperature butter is crucial. It blends better with sugar, making the cookies light and soft. - 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
Regular white sugar sweetens the cookies and helps them brown ever so slightly. - 1 large egg, at room temperature
This binds the dough and gives it a moist texture. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla adds a classic bakery aroma. Use pure extract if possible for the best flavor. - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Almond extract gives a subtle nutty kick. It’s optional, but I find it pairs nicely with strawberry. - 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
The foundation of most cookies. If you need gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. - 1 teaspoon baking powder
This helps the cookies rise slightly, creating a tender crumb. - 1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt rounds out the sweetness. If you only have salted butter, you might omit this. - 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
This is the secret to the pink color and strawberry flavor. You’ll stir it right into the dough. - 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
A light dusting at the end makes them look extra special. - 24–30 chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Press these into the center of the cookies when they’re still warm.
Some folks like to call these strawberry cake mix cookies with hershey kisses when they replace the flour and strawberry gelatin with an actual strawberry cake mix. That’s another fun twist. But for this recipe, we’re sticking with classic flour and gelatin.
Detailed Steps: Mixing and Baking
Let’s roll up our sleeves. Here’s how to create your own batch of Strawberry Kiss Cookies from scratch. Feel free to get the family involved—kids enjoy the rolling and pressing steps.
1. Prepare the Dough
- Cream the butter and sugar.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed for 2–3 minutes. Aim for a fluffy, pale mixture. This step traps air in the dough, helping your cookies turn out soft. - Add the egg and extracts.
Crack the egg into a small bowl first to avoid shell bits. Then add it to the butter-sugar mixture, along with vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). Continue mixing until everything is well combined. - Blend in the strawberry flavor.
Sprinkle in the strawberry-flavored gelatin mix. Watch the dough turn a lovely pink color. My niece calls it “princess dough,” and I can’t help but smile every time. - Combine dry ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Stop once the dough comes together. Overmixing can make the cookies dense.
2. Shape the Cookies
- Form the dough balls.
Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms. Aim for uniform shapes so they bake evenly. - Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Space them about 2 inches apart. I love using parchment paper because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. - Indent the center.
Gently press your thumb or the back of a teaspoon into the center of each ball. Twist slightly to create a shallow well. This spot is where the chocolate kiss will go later.
3. Bake and Decorate
- Preheat your oven.
Set it to 350°F (about 175°C). Slide the baking sheet in once the oven is ready. - Bake for 10–12 minutes.
Keep an eye on them near the end. They should look slightly set but still soft in the middle. A few faint cracks on top are normal. - Add the chocolate kisses.
Remove the tray and let the cookies sit for about 2–3 minutes. Then press a chocolate kiss gently into each cookie’s center. The residual heat will melt the base of the kiss slightly so it sticks. - Cool and dust.
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Once they’re fully cooled, dust them with a little powdered sugar if you like. This final flourish makes them look bakery-fancy.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Every baker has their own set of tried-and-true secrets. Here are mine:
- Don’t Overmix the Dough
After you add the flour, mix only until combined. Too much stirring can lead to tough cookies. - Room Temperature Ingredients
A cold egg can solidify your softened butter. Try setting out butter and egg at least 30 minutes before you start. - Use Parchment Paper
It prevents sticking and promotes even browning on the bottom. - Watch the Baking Time
In my oven, 10 minutes is often just right. But ovens differ, so check around the 9-minute mark. You want them to stay soft, not turn crunchy. - Let the Kisses Set
Resist the urge to move or stack the cookies until the chocolate in the center has firmed up. Warm chocolate can lose its shape if handled too soon. - Play With Extra Toppings
Sometimes I sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar or edible glitter before baking. It adds a whimsical sparkle that kids love.
Fun Variations to Try
If you’re like me, you might want to experiment with other flavors or decorations. These ideas can take your Strawberry Kiss Cookies to the next level:
- Swap Strawberry for Raspberry
Use a raspberry-flavored gelatin mix for a deeper red hue. You’ll get a slightly tangier taste, which pairs beautifully with dark chocolate. - Use White Chocolate
Instead of traditional chocolate kisses, opt for white chocolate kisses. They look super cute against the pink dough. - Marshmallow Surprise
If you’re out of chocolate kisses, place a small marshmallow in the center during the last minute of baking. It’ll puff and brown slightly, resembling a fluffy topping. - Double the Chocolate
For the true chocoholic, stir in some mini chocolate chips into the dough. Then top with a chocolate kiss, creating double the indulgence. - Dip in Melted Chocolate
After the cookies cool, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate (milk, dark, or white). Lay them on parchment to set. This gives a fancy bakery feel.
I’ve tried most of these variations, and each time I discover something new to love. Baking is all about creativity. Don’t be afraid to invent your own twist. Maybe you’ll create a brand-new cookie sensation.
Serving Ideas and Presentation
I’ve come to believe that how you present food elevates the entire experience. Strawberry Kiss Cookies are already eye-catching, but here are a few ways to highlight their charm:
- Arrange on a Tiered Tray
If you have a tiered dessert stand, these pink cookies look great on the middle or top level. Perfect for parties or baby showers. - Gift Them in Cellophane Bags
Place a few cookies in a clear bag, tie with a ribbon, and add a handwritten note. This makes a sweet gift for neighbors, teachers, or co-workers. - Serve with Strawberry Lemonade
Pink on pink! The refreshing lemonade complements the cookies. Kids love this playful color coordination. - Use Simple White Plates
A plain white dish makes the pink hue pop. Sometimes a minimalist backdrop is the best way to show off vibrant treats. - Bring to Potlucks
These bright cookies stand out on any dessert table. People will ask, “Who brought those pretty pink ones?” Watch how quickly they vanish.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: ~27 minutes
- Yield: 24-30 cookies
- Category: Bakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with strawberry flavor. Their pink color makes them a festive treat for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion. Topped with a smooth chocolate kiss and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are both delicious and visually stunning. Easy to make and perfect for sharing!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 24–30 chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl using a mixer, beating for about 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using) and mix until combined.
- Mix in the strawberry gelatin powder, ensuring the color and flavor are fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until set but still slightly soft, with light cracks forming around the edges.
- Let cookies cool for 2–3 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely, letting the chocolate harden.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch!
Notes
- For best results, use room-temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If you prefer a different flavor, try swapping raspberry or cherry-flavored gelatin for a fun twist.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: ~140 kcal
- Sugar: ~10 g
- Sodium: ~40 mg
- Fat: ~7 g
- Saturated Fat: ~4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~16 g
- Fiber: ~0.5 g
- Protein: ~1.5 g
- Cholesterol: ~15 mg
Keywords: Strawberry Kiss Cookies, strawberry truffle kiss cookies, pink blossom cookies, strawberry cake mix cookies with Hershey kisses, strawberry Hershey kiss cookies, strawberry truffle kiss cookies
FAQ: Common Questions and Answers
Below are some questions I often hear about these Strawberry Kiss Cookies. It’s normal to wonder if you can freeze them or how to tweak the recipe. Here’s your cheat sheet.
1. Can I Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
2. What If I Don’t Like Strawberry Gelatin?
3. Do I Need a Mixer, or Can I Do It by Hand?
4. Why Are My Cookies Too Flat?
5. Can I Use a Cake Mix Instead of Flour and Gelatin?
6. Is There a Way to Make Them Less Sweet?
A Note on Storing and Freezing
Let’s talk storage. Freshly baked cookies usually taste best within the first 2–3 days. To keep them soft:
- Use an Airtight Container
I like to place a small piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. - Avoid the Fridge
Refrigeration can dry them out faster. They stay fine at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. - Freeze for Longer Keeping
You can freeze them with the chocolate kisses in place. Just thaw them on the counter so the chocolate returns to a soft, pleasant texture.
Nothing beats biting into a warm cookie on the same day you bake it. But if you want to plan ahead or save extras, the freezer is your friend. My family loves it when I pull out a hidden stash of Strawberry Kiss Cookies from the freezer. It’s like discovering a surprise treat on a busy weekday.
Related Recipes
Looking for another sweet treat, especially one that’s festive and fun? You might enjoy this
Valentine’s Chocolate Bark Recipe – Easy & Festive Treat.
It’s a colorful recipe that’s perfect for gifting or sharing at parties. Just like these cookies, it’s simple to customize with your favorite toppings.
A Cozy Invitation to Your Next Baking Adventure
I often think of baking as a quiet, comforting ritual. On chilly days in Norway, I’d tuck myself in the kitchen, wearing fuzzy socks, humming a folk tune while the mixer whirred. Now, I’m here in the U.S., and those old traditions mingle beautifully with new ones.
If you have children around, let them help shape the dough. My nephew once decided we should have star-shaped cookies instead of round ones, and we ended up with pink stars, each bearing a little chocolate in the center. That’s the magic of baking—merging practicality with imagination.
Consider Strawberry Kiss Cookies your open invitation to explore different flavors and shapes. Whether you try them as strawberry truffle kiss cookies or adapt the recipe into something totally unique, let it be a moment of joy and discovery in your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Baking these cookies reminds me of my grandmother’s gentle laugh and her wise, nurturing presence. Her old Norwegian kitchen was never about perfection—it was about creating a sense of home. I hope your own kitchen feels just as warm, whether you’re baking for the first time or the fiftieth.
If you enjoy these Strawberry Kiss Cookies, I’d love for you to share your creations on Pinterest. Save the recipe to a dedicated board—maybe label it “Sweet Cookie Favorites.” Post a photo and tag me so I can see your wonderful pink treats. Sometimes we all need a bit of cheer in our feeds, and a plate of rosy cookies does the trick.
So roll up your sleeves. Turn on some music. Embrace the flour smudges and the sweet smell drifting from the oven. When you place that final chocolate kiss in the center and watch it soften, you’ll realize you’ve just created a little piece of happiness to share with those you love.
Happy Baking and Sharing!
I hope this recipe brings laughter, connection, and a whole lot of pink sweetness into your day. Feel free to tweak, experiment, and make it your own. And if you find a new spin on these cookies, let me know! The world can always use more delicious ideas.
From my Norwegian heart to your American kitchen—enjoy every crumb of these Strawberry Kiss Cookies!