If you’ve been searching for the ultimate sweet treat that perfectly balances tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a burst of fruity flavor, look no further than this delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a joyful celebration of strawberry and chocolate, wrapped into a soft pink dough that’s as charming to look at as it is to eat. Each bite offers a tender crumb infused with just the right hint of strawberry, crowned with a luscious chocolate kiss that adds a touch of indulgence you’ll crave again and again. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies radiate warmth, sweetness, and pure happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight small white bowls and dishes placed on a white marbled surface. In the center, a bowl holds white flour with a powdery texture. Above it to the right, a stick of pale yellow butter sits directly on the surface. To the left of the flour is a small white bowl filled with crushed pink pieces. Above the pink pieces, a small white bowl contains granulated white sugar. At the bottom left, a bowl holds a raw egg with a bright yellow yolk and clear egg white. To the right of the egg, a white speckled bowl is filled with several dark brown chocolate pieces in a rounded shape. Two other small dishes, one white and teardrop-shaped and one wooden with white salt, complete the layout. The arrangement is neat and evenly spaced. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe comes together from simple pantry staples paired with a special strawberry gelatin that brings that unmistakable flavor and blush-hued color. Every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build a cookie that is sweet, soft, and irresistibly festive.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides the rich, creamy base for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps create a light texture when creamed with butter.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds the dough and adds moisture for softness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, comforting aroma.
Almond extract (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds a subtly nutty note that pairs beautifully with strawberry.
All-purpose flour (2 cups + 2 tbsp): The backbone of the cookie that holds everything together with just the right density.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Gives the cookies a slight lift and light crumb.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix (1 package, 3 oz): The secret ingredient that infuses the dough with authentic strawberry flavor and color.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup, for dusting): Adds a delicate, snowy finish that looks as pretty as it tastes.
Chocolate kiss candies (24-30, unwrapped): The luscious finishing touch, melting gently into each warm cookie center.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by beating the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating that perfect tender texture. Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it, mixing until smooth and combined. Then, sprinkle in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder and incorporate it thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed until a soft pink dough forms. Don’t worry if it feels slightly sticky — add one or two extra tablespoons of flour if needed to make it easier to roll.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Cookies

Now, scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball between your palms. Place these dough balls evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for at least one hour, or for best results, overnight. This chilling step is vital as it stops the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, giving you those perfect round shapes.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between each. Resist the urge to press an indentation into the dough before baking; this can cause the cookies to spread too much. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, keeping an eye on the edges — they should look set and slightly firm, while the centers may still appear soft. That’s exactly what you want because they’ll continue to set after coming out of the oven.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Kisses

Once you pull the cookies out of the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for two minutes. While they’re still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The residual heat melts the base of the chocolate just enough for it to stick nicely without losing its shape, resulting in the perfect combination of warm cookie and melty chocolate.

Step 5: Cool Completely and Dust

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely so the chocolate sets properly. For a pretty finishing touch, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar after cooling. Be sure to dust before adding kisses if you’re dusting while cookies are warm for a dusting that doesn’t land on the chocolate.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

A close-up image shows a woman's hand holding a pink dough ball above a baking tray lined with white paper. On the tray, there are many similar pink dough balls, all round and smooth but with small dents on their surfaces. The background is a blurry kitchen setting with utensils in a white container and a wooden block. The surface under the tray has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really highlight the sweetness and festive vibe of your strawberry kiss cookies, consider sprinkling some edible pink sugar crystals or small freeze-dried strawberry pieces on top. Fresh mint leaves or a few small edible flowers can dress them up beautifully for a party or special occasion.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair amazingly well with vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert, or simply alongside a cup of hot tea or fruity iced lemonade. The strawberry flavor in the cookies shines bright when balanced with light, refreshing drinks that cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Strawberry Kiss Cookies on a pretty platter with fresh strawberries scattered around for a charming look. You can also stack them in little towers tied with pastel ribbons for a cute gift, or serve them in gift boxes or treat bags for a thoughtful homemade present that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Strawberry Kiss Cookies fresh by storing them at room temperature in an airtight container. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing at gatherings.

Freezing

You can freeze both unbaked dough balls and baked cookies. For dough balls, freeze them spaced on a tray until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, place parchment between layers in a sealed container and freeze similarly. When ready, thaw at room temperature and press in kisses again if needed.

Reheating

Reheat cookies gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes if you’d like the chocolate kisses melty again or to refresh their softness. Microwaving for 10-15 seconds also works well for a quick treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of gelatin in this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! While strawberry gelatin adds signature color and flavor, feel free to experiment with raspberry or cherry for a similar effect with a twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling is important to keep the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and to develop a better texture. You can chill for as little as one hour, but overnight is ideal.

Is almond extract necessary in this recipe?

Almond extract is optional, but it adds a lovely nutty counterpoint to the strawberry flavor. You can omit it if you prefer a purer strawberry taste or if someone has nut allergies.

How do I prevent the chocolate kisses from melting too much?

Press the chocolate kisses into the cookies right after baking while the cookies are warm but not hot, and let them cool on a wire rack. This way, the chocolate softens just enough without losing its shape.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can try substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary. Because of the gelatin and delicate dough texture, a blend with xanthan gum usually works best.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe enough if you’re looking to brighten up your baking repertoire with something fun, festive, and deeply satisfying. The way these cookies marry strawberry flavor with a kiss of chocolate is pure magic—perfect for sharing or savoring by yourself. Whip up a batch soon and watch them disappear faster than you’d expect!

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need