There’s nothing quite like the joy of homemade cookies, especially when they come packed with flavor and a little surprise in the center. Picture this: a soft, chewy Strawberry Kiss Cookie in your hand, warm from the oven, melting chocolate and strawberry sweetness mingling on your palate. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a little moment of happiness, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all to yourself.
I discovered this delightful recipe when I was searching for a way to brighten up a gloomy afternoon. The bright pink hues of strawberry cake mix combined with the rich decadence of cream cheese create an irresistible cookie that practically dances on your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings smiles all around. So let’s kick those fast food cravings to the curb and indulge in some homemade goodness with these Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
Why will you love these Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberry and creamy chocolate creates an explosion of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels—simply mix, chill, and bake!
Show-Stopping Appeal: The vibrant pink hue and the surprise chocolate center make these cookies a visual treat, sure to impress family and friends.
Versatile Delight: Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a special occasion, these cookies are ideal for any gathering.
Time-Saving Convenience: They chill while you prep other snacks, making it easy to whip up a batch without fuss.
Get ready to ditch the fast food and indulge with these delicious treats that everyone will love!
Strawberry Kiss Cookie Ingredients
• The key to these delicious cookies lies in their simplicity.
For the Cookie Dough
- Strawberry cake mix – This provides the vibrant flavor and color of the Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
- Butter – Use melted and slightly cooled butter for a rich, moist texture.
- Large egg – The egg adds structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese makes the cookies extra chewy and creamy.
For Optional Coating
- Powdered sugar – Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar gives them a sweet finish and cute presentation.
- Pink granulated sugar – This adds a fun, festive sparkle, perfect for special occasions.
For the Surprise Center
- Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – Unwrap these gems to create the delightful surprise in each cookie.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Mix the ingredients by combining the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a large bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended for about 2 minutes.
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Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture, and mix until it’s thick and fully incorporated. It should be rich and creamy, creating a lovely cookie dough.
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Chill the dough by covering the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for easier handling and perfectly shaped cookies.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
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Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon and roll it into balls. Make sure they’re about the size of a golf ball for a uniform cookie shape.
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Roll the dough balls in powdered sugar or pink sugar if using, or place them plain on the baking sheet. This adds a touch of sweetness and beauty to your cookies.
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes. You want them to be set at the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
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Rest the cookies for 1–2 minutes on the baking sheet, then gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the chocolate to melt slightly for an irresistible finish.
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Cool the cookies by transferring them to a wire rack, letting them cool completely. This step ensures they firm up nicely for the best taste!
Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor these delightful cookies to your heart’s content!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the strawberry cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a delicious, allergy-friendly option.
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Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter for a vegan twist.
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for an extra crunch and a delightful flavor profile.
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Citrus Zest: Brighten up the dough with a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a lovely zing that complements the strawberry beautifully.
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Chocolate Variation: Use strawberry-flavored chocolate or white chocolate Kisses to create an exciting twist on the traditional flavor.
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Chunky Style: Mix in ½ cup of dark chocolate or strawberry chunks to the dough for a delicious surprise with every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warm heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
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Cookie Sandwich: Make a fun sandwich cookie by adding a dollop of frosting or whipped cream cheese between two Strawberry Kiss Cookies for an indulgent treat!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 1 hour. This step helps prevent spreading and ensures a chewy texture in your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For easy mixing, make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature. This helps create a smooth and creamy dough.
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Roll Evenly: When rolling the cookie dough into balls, aim for uniform sizes. This helps your cookies bake evenly and look appealing on the plate.
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Customize the Coating: Feel free to experiment with different coatings! Coconut flakes or colorful sprinkles can also be delightful alternatives to powdered sugar for your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by combining the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, egg, and cream cheese as instructed. After mixing, simply cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate it. This not only makes handling easier but also enhances the flavors! When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough into balls, roll them in sugar, and bake as usual. By prepping ahead, you’ll save valuable time on busy days, ensuring your cookies are just as delicious and ready to bring smiles to the table whenever you need them!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you like your cookies chilled, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply scoop, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until the chocolate hugs melt again, giving you that heartwarming experience!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
These delightful cookies burst with flavor, making them perfect for pairing with complementary dishes and drinks.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing the strawberry flavor.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of blueberries and raspberries adds a delightful tartness that beautifully contrasts with the cookies’ sweetness. Think of it as a refreshing bite alongside each cookie.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty fizz of sparkling lemonade brightens up the dessert experience, making each bite feel like a cheerful celebration of flavors.
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Chocolate Milk: Rich and creamy chocolate milk indulges your sweet tooth; it’s a classic pairing that kids and adults adore, making snack time feel extra special.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A cloud of whipped cream drizzled over the cookies creates a luxurious texture that enhances each bite.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness, cutting through the richness of the cookies and providing a joyful burst of flavor with each forkful.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso paired with these cookies creates an inviting experience, as the boldness of the coffee complements the sweet and creamy layers of the cookies.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For the ultimate sweet pairing, these treats elevate your cookie experience with the rich taste of chocolate and the freshness of strawberries.
Indulge in these pairing suggestions for a delightful spread that turns snack time into a heartwarming occasion with your Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free of dark spots. Avoid any that are mushy or have obvious signs of overripeness, as these will not blend well into your cookie dough. Fresh strawberries can elevate the sweetness of your cookies!
How should I store my Strawberry Kiss Cookies after baking?
Very! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their softness. If you’d like to extend their life, placing them in the refrigerator can help, giving you a delightful treat for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Certainly! Freezing unbaked cookie dough works wonderfully. Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To bake, no need to thaw; just pop them straight into the oven and add an extra minute or two to the baking time!
What should I do if my cookies flatten too much while baking?
No worries! If your Strawberry Kiss Cookies spread too much, it may be due to warmth. Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking, as refrigeration aids in maintaining shape. Consider placing the cookie dough balls in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes if you notice sticky texture. Additionally, double-check that your butter isn’t too warm when mixing.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Of course! If you need alternatives, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Ensure that the cake mix used is also dairy-free if someone has lactose intolerance. For nut allergies, verify that the ingredients are free from cross-contamination. These cookies can easily be modified while still delivering that delightful flavor!
Delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies That Melt Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the ingredients by combining the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a large bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended for about 2 minutes.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture, and mix until it's thick and fully incorporated.
- Chill the dough by covering the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon and roll it into balls.
- Roll the dough balls in powdered sugar or pink sugar if using.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes.
- Rest the cookies for 1–2 minutes on the baking sheet, then gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Cool the cookies by transferring them to a wire rack.