If you have a soft spot for sweet, fruity treats that melt in your mouth, you are going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine the delightful freshness of finely chopped strawberries with the rich, melty goodness of a chocolate kiss right in the center. Each bite bursts with juicy flavor and a perfect balance of sweet and buttery textures. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon snack or a special occasion, these cookies promise to charm everyone lucky enough to try them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward creating cookies that are as fresh as they are flavorful. Each component plays an important role: from the tender crumb of the all-purpose flour to the natural sweetness and moisture from fresh strawberries, every element contributes to the irresistible texture and taste.
- All-purpose flour (1½ cups): The foundation that gives your cookies structure and a soft bite.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness and helps create that tender, slightly crisp edge.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Brings richness and moisture, enhancing every bite.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, finely chopped): Provides natural juiciness and vibrant color, making these cookies truly special.
- Chocolate kisses (12 pieces, unwrapped): The delightful, melty surprise that crowns each cookie.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Strawberries
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. While the oven warms, finely chop the fresh strawberries. This step is crucial because finely chopped strawberries will evenly spread their flavor and moisture throughout the cookie dough, ensuring every bite bursts with that fresh fruit goodness.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture looks fluffy and light. This is where the magic begins—creaming these two together incorporates air, making your cookies tender and slightly airy once baked. Take your time here; it’s worth the effort.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients and Strawberries
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder into your creamy mixture. Gently fold these dry ingredients together so you maintain a light texture without overworking the dough. Then, delicately fold in the chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly without breaking down their juicy charm.
Step 4: Bake and Add Chocolate Kisses
Scoop your dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each dollop comfortably apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a warm golden brown. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, press a chocolate kiss right into the center of each warm cookie. The residual heat will soften the chocolate slightly, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth center. Allow cookies to cool on wire racks to set perfectly.
How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are stunning on their own, but you can easily elevate them by adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of finely shredded white chocolate on top of the kisses. Fresh strawberry slices nearby also make for a beautiful, fresh garnish that complements the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a chilled glass of milk, a cup of freshly brewed coffee, or even a light herbal tea. They also harmonize wonderfully alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, arrange these cookies in decorative tins or stack them between parchment paper in a glass jar tied with a ribbon. You can also serve them on a platter with seasonal flowers or place each cookie in a paper cupcake liner for a charming touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Strawberry Kiss Cookies left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and soft for up to three days, but be sure to keep them away from moisture to maintain that perfect texture.
Freezing
To enjoy these treats later, freeze the baked cookies without the chocolate kiss and add the kisses after thawing and warming slightly. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to two months. This way you preserve the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, gently reheat the cookies in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes. If you’ve frozen them, allow thawing at room temperature first. Warm cookies with a softened chocolate kiss are pure bliss.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe?
While fresh strawberries offer the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh aren’t available—just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the dough.
What type of chocolate kisses work best?
Classic milk chocolate kisses are perfect for these cookies, but feel free to experiment with dark or white chocolate for a different flavor twist.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before scooping and baking to ensure even cooking.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe uses all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free as is, but you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend. Just check that the blend includes a binder for the best results.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough briefly before baking and using parchment paper will help maintain their shape and keep them from spreading too thin.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about making and sharing this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe. It’s the kind of sweet treat that feels both homey and special, perfect for any occasion when you want to spread a little love through baking. So, gather your ingredients, pull out your mixing bowl, and get ready to delight yourself and those around you with these unforgettable cookies. You’ll be so glad you did.
Print
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies (approximately 4-4.4 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Strawberry Kiss Cookies are delightful soft cookies infused with fresh strawberries and topped with a classic chocolate kiss. These sweet treats combine a tender, fruity cookie base with a melty chocolate center, perfect for any occasion or a special snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
Topping
- 12 pieces chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Finely chop the fresh strawberries to ensure even distribution throughout the cookie dough.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aerates the dough and helps create a tender texture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft cookie consistency.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the finely chopped strawberries into the dough, ensuring they are evenly incorporated but not mashed, preserving their fresh flavor and texture.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, place dough portions onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them to allow for slight spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown around the edges.
- Top with Chocolate Kisses: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press one unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks so the chocolate can set slightly while the cookies firm up.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and moisture balance.
- Press chocolate kisses into the cookies while warm so they melt slightly, creating a gooey center.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
- For a firmer cookie, chill the dough before baking.
