Strawberry Kiss Cookies: A Deliciously Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor and joy to any occasion. These charming cookies, with their soft texture and sweet strawberry essence, are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Originating from the classic tradition of cookie-making, these cookies have become a favorite in many households, especially during festive seasons and family gatherings. The combination of buttery goodness and the fruity zing of strawberries creates a harmonious balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.

People love Strawberry Kiss Cookies not only for their irresistible taste but also for their convenience. They are easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. The vibrant pink hue and the signature chocolate kiss on top add a playful touch, making them a hit at parties and potlucks. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to all who enjoy them.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 1 cup chocolate kisses, unwrapped
• Extra powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Preparing the Dough

Let’s get started on these delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies! First, we need to prepare our dough. Follow these steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. I usually use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. This will add a lovely flavor to our cookies!
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to be tender!
5. Now, gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries. I like to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but you can also use freeze-dried strawberries if you prefer.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is an important step that helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Here’s how to do it:

1. Once the dough is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container.
2. Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. If you have time, chilling it overnight will enhance the flavors even more!

Preparing to Bake

After the dough has chilled, it’s time to prepare for baking. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly.
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
3. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. I usually aim for about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Baking the Cookies

Now comes the exciting part—baking the cookies! Follow these steps:

1. Once your oven is preheated, place the baking sheets in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack.
3. While the cookies are still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth will help the chocolate melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey center!
4. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. If you like, you can dust them with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Storing the Cookies

Once your Strawberry Kiss Cookies are cool, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh:

1. Place the cookies in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days.
2. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure they are completely cooled, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature

Conclusion:

In summary, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add a delightful twist to their dessert repertoire. The combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and the rich, creamy chocolate kiss creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Not only are they a treat for the taste buds, but their vibrant color also makes them a stunning addition to any dessert table, perfect for celebrations or just a cozy night in. For serving suggestions, I love to pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. You can also experiment with variations by substituting the strawberry jam with raspberry or blueberry for a different fruity flavor, or even try using dark chocolate kisses for a richer taste. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve baked your batch of Strawberry Kiss Cookies, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a picture of your delicious creations. Let’s spread the joy of baking together! Happy baking!

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