Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookies, but with a fruity and refreshing flavor. These cookies combine the soft and chewy texture of a traditional sugar cookie with the sweet, tart taste of fresh strawberries, creating a fun and vibrant treat. The added strawberry flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Hershey’s Kiss that adorns the top. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday, enjoying a family gathering, or just craving a delicious dessert. Strawberry Kiss Cookies are easy to make, with simple ingredients, and are guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who loves fruity sweets. Let’s dive into how you can make these charming cookies yourself.
Ingredients
To create these delicious strawberry cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)
These ingredients come together quickly, so be sure to have everything ready to go for smooth preparation.
Prep Time & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yields: Approximately 24 cookies
- Calories: ~150 kcal per cookie
Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Making Strawberry Kiss Cookies is simple and fun! Here’s how to prepare these sweet treats:
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until a dough forms. The dough will be thick and a bit sticky.
- Step 3: Roll the Dough into Balls Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to measure out small portions of dough. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll it in powdered sugar to coat it completely.
- Step 4: Bake the Cookies Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 8–10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Step 5: Add the Hershey’s Kisses As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses a box of cake mix, making it quicker and easier than starting from scratch. You’ll have fresh cookies in just 25 minutes!
- Perfect Balance of Sweet & Tart: The strawberry-flavored dough adds a burst of fruity sweetness, while the Hershey’s Kiss provides a creamy, chocolatey contrast.
- Versatile for All Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or a simple treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the fun pink color and the delicious strawberry flavor, making them a great choice for baking with little ones.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Kiss Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially the eggs and oil, are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can cause them to dry out. You want them to be soft and chewy.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before placing the Hershey’s Kisses on top. This prevents the kisses from melting too much and losing their shape.
The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
The secret to the soft and chewy texture of Strawberry Kiss Cookies lies in the combination of cake mix, oil, and eggs. The cake mix adds a slight fluffiness and moistness, while the oil ensures the cookies remain tender. The powdered sugar coating gives them a subtle crunch on the outside, adding to the contrast of textures. The chocolate Kiss on top melts slightly when placed on the hot cookies, creating a perfect gooey center that pairs wonderfully with the strawberry flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a great choice for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:
- Cookie Tray: Pair these cookies with other treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread, and chocolate chip cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
- Afternoon Snack: Serve them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
- Gift Idea: These cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift. Package them in a cute tin or jar and give them to loved ones for birthdays, holidays, or just because.
Variations on Strawberry Kiss Cookies
If you want to switch things up, try these fun variations:
- Chocolate Strawberry Kiss Cookies: Use chocolate cake mix instead of strawberry cake mix for a different flavor combo. The chocolate and strawberry pairing is a classic!
- Add Nuts: For some added crunch, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough before baking.
- Double Kisses: For a double dose of chocolate, press two Hershey’s Kisses onto each cookie instead of one. This creates an extra gooey center and more chocolatey goodness.
FAQ about Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cookies ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to add the Hershey’s Kisses just after baking, as they may melt if stored for too long.
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies? Yes! These cookies freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Can I use a different type of candy on top? While Hershey’s Kisses are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of chocolate or even caramel candies. Just make sure the candies are large enough to sit on top of the cookies without melting into the dough.
Conclusion
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are an irresistibly fun, fruity twist on a classic cookie recipe. The strawberry flavor adds a unique freshness, while the Hershey’s Kiss provides a touch of chocolatey indulgence. Whether for a special occasion or as a simple treat, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family. They’re easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for those who love a soft, chewy cookie with a burst of flavor. Give them a try, and enjoy the deliciousness in every bite!
