Strawberry kiss cookies are those fun pink thumbprint cookies that bring joy to bake and delight to eat. With a tender, buttery cookie base infused with strawberry flavor and crowned with a chocolate kiss, these cookies are perfect for holidays, birthdays, or cozy weekend baking. This easy cookie recipe becomes extra special with its festive color and soft texture that’s hard to resist.
What Makes Strawberry Kiss Cookies Special
Strawberry kiss cookies take the classic thumbprint cookie and add a sweet strawberry twist. The dough gets its lovely pink hue and fruity taste from strawberry-flavored gelatin, while the chocolate kiss in the center adds a creamy contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives them a finished look that’s perfect for gifting or serving with tea or coffee.
Many bakers choose these cookies as part of their celebration spread. For more festive baking ideas, you can find plenty of Valentine’s Day cookie inspiration across similar holiday recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24–30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract if using. Add the strawberry gelatin mix and stir until the dough turns pink and fragrant. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until you have a soft cookie dough.
2. Shape the Cookies
Roll about 1 tablespoon of dough into smooth balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, press a shallow indentation into the center of each ball.
3. Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes. The edges should be set, and slight cracks may show on top. Remove from the oven while still warm.
4. Add the Chocolate Kiss
While the cookies are still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into each indentation. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet so the chocolate can set without melting away.
5. Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once cookies are completely cool, sprinkle them lightly with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Use room-temperature ingredients to help them mix smoothly and create a soft texture.
- Don’t skip chilling if your dough feels too soft; it helps control spread.
- Take cookies out as soon as edges are firm—overbaking can dry them.
- Add powdered sugar only after cookies and chocolates are cool to avoid melting.
For more cookie baking inspiration and techniques, you might also enjoy classic cookie baking tips found in other simple dessert recipes.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Strawberry kiss cookies are perfect on their own, but they also shine on dessert trays paired with other sweet treats like chocolate chip bars or peanut cookies. For a dessert platter that pleases a crowd, mix these with other cookie bar ideas or festive cookie variations.
These cookies also make thoughtful gifts when packaged in pretty boxes for holidays or birthdays. Their pink color and chocolate center add a festive touch that’s sure to impress.
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Print
Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24–30 cookies 1x
Description
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are soft, pink thumbprint cookies made with strawberry-flavored dough and topped with a chocolate kiss. Festive, fruity, and easy to make — perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime baking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- 24–30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract if using.
- Add the strawberry gelatin and mix until dough is pink and fragrant.
- Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Roll 1 tablespoon of dough into balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press a shallow indentation in the center of each using your thumb or a spoon.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and tops may crack slightly.
- Remove from oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let cookies cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Dust with powdered sugar once cooled for a finished look.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Chill dough if too soft before baking. Wait for cookies and kisses to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Final Thoughts
Strawberry kiss cookies bring a bright, sweet twist to classic cookie baking. With simple ingredients and clear steps, they’re a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels and fit beautifully into holiday dessert tables or everyday baking routines. Grab your mixing bowl and see for yourself why these cookies are such a hit!