As I rummaged through my pantry one afternoon, I stumbled upon a box of strawberry cake mix that whispered sweet possibilities. Enter Strawberry Kiss Cookies: a delightful blend of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth dough wrapped around a luscious chocolate surprise. These charming cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for those who crave homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. With their soft, pillowy texture and a hidden chocolate kiss, you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more (or two!). Ready to indulge in this delightful recipe?
Why Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies Irresistible?
Irresistible, the combination of soft, buttery dough and a hidden chocolate kiss creates a delightful surprise with every bite. Quick & Easy, these cookies come together in no time, perfect for busy bakers yearning for homemade joy. Visually Stunning, the vibrant pink color and chocolate center make them a hit for any occasion. Versatile, feel free to customize your cookies with different flavored cake mixes or chocolate varieties. Perfect for Sharing, these crowd-pleasers are ideal for parties, cozy gatherings, or even a sweet surprise during afternoon tea. Embrace the charm of these delicious bites and try them alongside our delightful Pumpkin Cookies Soft for a varied treat selection!
Strawberry Kiss Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
- Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides concentrated strawberry flavor; any brand works well for this treat.
- Butter (8 tablespoons/1/2 cup, melted and cooled) – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s cooled to enhance the dough’s texture.
- Egg (1 large) – Binds all ingredients together, ensuring your cookies hold their shape.
- Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Essential for achieving that soft, rich texture; it keeps the cookies tender and moist.
For the Surprise
- Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (30, unwrapped) – The sweet, chocolatey center that makes these Strawberry Kiss Cookies irresistible; feel free to experiment with different chocolate varieties.
Optional Topping
- Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar – For a lovely decorative dusting to enhance presentation and sweetness.
With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to baking some dreamy Strawberry Kiss Cookies that will surely win hearts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix with the melted and cooled butter and the large egg. Use a spatula or electric mixer to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and free from lumps. This will form a vibrant pink dough that smells delicious.
Step 2: Add Cream Cheese
Next, add the softened cream cheese to the dough mixture. Blend until deeply incorporated, ensuring no streaks remain. The dough should become thick and creamy, giving the Strawberry Kiss Cookies their delightful texture.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading while baking. When you remove the bowl from the fridge, the dough should be firm but manageable to scoop.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line several baking sheets with parchment paper to make transferring your cookies a breeze. This step ensures even baking and easy cleanup after the Strawberry Kiss Cookies are ready.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a tablespoon or medium cookie scoop, portion the chilled dough into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Aim for uniform balls to ensure even baking. Your Strawberry Kiss Cookies should be well-shaped and ready for the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers still appear slightly soft and puffy. This will create that irresistible chewy texture in the Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Once baked, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes. Gently press a chocolate Hershey’s kiss into the center of each cookie. Expect the edges to crack slightly, revealing that soft dough beneath the perfectly melted chocolate.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the chocolate to set and the cookies to firm up a bit. Once cooled, feel free to dust with powdered or pink granulated sugar for a beautiful finish. Your Strawberry Kiss Cookies are now ready to delight!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep the cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container; they will last up to 7 days, but may become firmer.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies (without powdered sugar) for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature for soft, delectable bites.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
• Chill the Dough:
Ensure you refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to prevent unwanted spreading and maintain a thick texture while baking.
• Use Cake Mix Wisely:
Avoid using fresh strawberries as they add excess moisture; stick with strawberry cake mix for optimal flavor and dough consistency.
• Uniform Scoops:
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion your dough evenly, guaranteeing all cookies bake uniformly for the best Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
• Timing Is Key:
Keep a close eye while baking; take them out when the edges are set yet centers remain soft for that perfect chewy bite.
• Storage Savvy:
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze them (without powdered sugar) for up to 3 months to preserve freshness.
Make Ahead Options
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days ahead of baking. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients, cover the bowl, and place it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions as usual. For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked cookie balls for up to 3 months; just be sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. This way, your Strawberry Kiss Cookies will be just as delicious and fresh when served!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Imagine an inviting gathering where the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, and every bite of these treats brings pure bliss.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that perfectly complements the soft, chewy cookies.
- Fresh Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries not only enhance the dessert theme but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melting alongside a warm cookie creates a deliciously indulgent experience that evokes childhood memories of summer treats.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake pairs beautifully, bridging the gap between the sweet strawberry flavors and the chocolate surprise inside each cookie.
- Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty effervescence of a sparkling lemonade contrasts with the rich cookie, uplifting the overall flavor profile and brightening the occasion.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or soothing tea balances the sweetness, providing a comforting way to savor these delightful bites.
Whether it’s an afternoon treat or a special gathering, these pairings will elevate your Strawberry Kiss Cookies to a whole new level of enjoyment!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on these delightful cookies and create a version that feels uniquely yours!
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Almond Extract: Add a teaspoon for a warm, nutty undertone that pairs beautifully with strawberry.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan twist. These cookies will still be soft and delightful!
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Different Cake Mixes: Swap the strawberry cake mix for lemon or chocolate cake mix for a different flavor adventure. Each brings a new and exciting twist.
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Chocolate Variety: Use caramel-filled chocolate kisses or dark chocolate varieties for a surprise twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a hint of unexpected spice that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to introduce a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
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Fruity Boost: Mix in some white chocolate chips or strawberry pieces to enrich each cookie with more texture and flavor.
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Decorative Touch: Dust with edible glitter or colored sugar before serving to make them extra festive for special occasions. Pair them with our enchanting Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a delightful platter.
With these variations, you can easily tailor your Strawberry Kiss Cookies to suit your taste and occasion perfectly! Enjoy experimenting!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for strawberry-flavored recipes?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries for recipes, look for firm, plump berries with a vibrant red color. Avoid those with dark spots or a dull appearance, as this indicates overripeness. Remember, for Strawberry Kiss Cookies, it’s best to stick with strawberry cake mix instead of fresh strawberries to achieve the perfect dough texture.
How should I store my Strawberry Kiss Cookies and how long do they last?
Very important! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If kept in the fridge, they can last about 7 days, but they might become firmer over time. Always ensure they’re sealed tightly to maintain their delicious softness!
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container, layering parchment paper in between to prevent them from sticking together. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds when you’re ready to indulge!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Don’t worry! If your dough feels too sticky after chilling, you can add a little bit of flour (about a tablespoon at a time) until it’s manageable. It’s common for different strawberry cake mixes to have variable moisture content. Just make sure not to add too much, as you want to maintain the soft texture of the cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very much so! To adapt the Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a gluten-free diet, simply use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful treats without missing out!
Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies suitable for pets or children?
It’s essential to note that while strawberry and chocolate can be safe for humans, chocolate is toxic to dogs. Always keep these cookies away from your furry friends. For kids, they’re a wonderful treat, but be cautious if they have allergies to any of the ingredients used in the recipe.
Soft Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a Chocolatey Surprise
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Blend until smooth.
- Add softened cream cheese to the mixture. Blend until creamy and no streaks remain.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Portion the chilled dough into balls and place them 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes until edges are set and centers appear slightly soft.
- Allow cookies to rest for 1–2 minutes, then press a Hershey’s kiss into the center of each.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with sugar if desired.
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