Name: Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 1 h 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional); 2 cups + 2 tbsp (280g) all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix; 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting; 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

I absolutely adore sharing my Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe with friends because it’s one of those delightful treats that brings a smile with every bite. These cookies capture the perfect balance of sweet, fruity strawberry flavor and rich chocolate, wrapped into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a little hug in cookie form. I find the gorgeous pink hue inviting, and the way the chocolate kiss nestles right in the center adds that perfect touch of indulgence. When I bake these, my kitchen instantly feels like a celebration, and I just know you’re going to love them just as much as I do.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

What really excites me about this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe is the bright yet subtle strawberry taste that’s infused right into the dough thanks to the strawberry-flavored gelatin. It gives the cookies a delicate pink color and a lightly tangy sweetness that’s refreshingly different from the usual cookie flavors. The chocolate kiss on top creates a delightful contrast, making every bite a little surprise of rich cocoa goodness that perfectly complements the fruity base.

Another thing I absolutely love is how easy these cookies are to prepare. The dough comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, and chilling the dough gives you a relaxing pause while you get everything else ready—or just unwind for a bit! Plus, I think these cookies are incredibly versatile — whether it’s a holiday party, a casual family gathering, or just when I want a special treat with my afternoon coffee, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies fit right in and never disappoint.

What really makes this recipe stand out to me is the nostalgic feel. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the traditional cookie shape with a twist: the bright strawberry flavor and the chocolate kiss center always bring back wonderful memories and create new ones every time I bake them.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows seven small white bowls and one wooden bowl arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. Each bowl holds a different ingredient: in the center, there is a bowl filled with white flour; above it to the left, a bowl contains pink crushed pieces; to the right of that is a bowl filled with white granulated sugar; next to the sugar, there is a stick of yellow butter placed directly on the surface; below the flour bowl, a bowl holds a raw egg with a bright yellow yolk; to the right of the egg bowl, a speckled white bowl contains several round chocolate pieces and chocolate kisses; to the left of the flour is a small teardrop-shaped bowl with a clear liquid, possibly water or oil; finally, a small wooden bowl contains coarse salt. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward yet so essential for building the perfect taste and texture. Each one has its role, from the creamy softness of butter to the slight tang of the strawberry gelatin that brightens the dough beautifully.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these cookies irresistible.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect cookie structure.
Egg, room temperature: Provides moisture and binds the dough together beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting aroma.
Almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty undertone that complements the strawberry flavor wonderfully.
All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies structure and tenderness when combined correctly.
Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, soft bite.
Salt: Balances sweetness, bringing out the richness of all ingredients.
Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix: The magical ingredient that infuses a bright pink color and irresistible strawberry flavor.
Powdered sugar: For a delicate dusting that adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
Chocolate kiss candies: The crowning glory of each cookie, adding a rich chocolate surprise in every bite.

Directions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, I start by beating the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes with a hand mixer. This step is key to achieving a tender cookie. Then, I add the egg along with the vanilla extract and almond extract if I’m using it, beating everything until it's well combined.

Step 2: Next, I stir in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until it’s completely incorporated, giving the dough that lovely pink hue and burst of flavor. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. The dough should form soft, pink balls—if it feels too sticky, I add an extra tablespoon or two of flour.

Step 3: After the dough is ready, I scoop about one tablespoon at a time and roll each into a smooth ball between my palms. I place these dough balls onto a lined baking sheet and pop them in the refrigerator for at least an hour (sometimes overnight) so they chill nicely. This chilling step is very important because it prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 4: When the dough has chilled, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). I arrange the dough balls spaced about two inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. I never press an indentation into the dough before baking since this can cause spreading. Then, I bake the cookies for 11 to 13 minutes or until the edges look set and slightly firm. The centers may look soft, but trust me, they will firm up as they cool.

Step 5: As soon as I pull the cookies out of the oven, I let them sit on the baking sheet for about two minutes. While still warm, I gently press an unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth ensures the chocolate sticks perfectly without melting too much.

Step 6: Then I transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set perfectly. Just before serving, I dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar—doing this before pressing in the kisses helps keep the chocolate looking shiny and neat.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 delicious cookies, perfect for sharing or saving a few for yourself (though they rarely last long!). Prep time is about 15 minutes, plus a chilling time of at least 1 hour, which I genuinely recommend for that perfect texture and shape. Baking takes around 12 minutes per batch, and cooling takes about 15-20 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including chill and bake time.

How to Serve This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

The image shows rows of pink thumbprint cookies with cracks on their surface, each dusted lightly with white powdered sugar. In the center of each cookie is a single, large, glossy milk chocolate drop shaped like a pointed kiss. The cookies are evenly spaced on a black metal cooling rack that sits atop a white marbled surface. The contrast between the soft pink cookies, white powdered sugar, and dark chocolate drops creates a visually appealing arrangement. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve these Strawberry Kiss Cookies, I love to present them on a bright, festive platter that highlights their pretty pink color. They look wonderful dusted with a little extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect, especially during holiday gatherings. For a special touch, I sometimes add a few fresh strawberries and mint leaves around the platter, tying the flavors and presentation together beautifully.

These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. I personally enjoy them with a cold glass of milk because the creaminess balances the sweet strawberry and chocolate perfectly. For adults, they’re great alongside a light rosé wine or a sparkling cocktail with a hint of fruitiness. And if you’re serving at a brunch or tea party, pairing them with a hot cup of black tea or strawberry-infused herbal tea makes the experience extra cozy.

I recommend serving them at room temperature so the chocolate kiss is firm but not hard, allowing the gooey strawberry-infused cookie to shine. They’re ideal as a sweet finale at family dinners, a festive holiday treat, or even a charming addition to a cookie swap. Portion-wise, one or two cookies per person is usually just right depending on the occasion and what else you might be serving.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you want to switch things up, try substituting the strawberry gelatin with raspberry or cherry gelatin for a different fruity twist. For an extra pop of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough—trust me, it gives an amazing brightness!

If you need these cookies to be gluten-free, I’ve had success swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure to check the gelatin for any hidden gluten ingredients. For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, you can substitute the butter for plant-based margarine and use a flax egg instead of the chicken egg. The cookies still come out soft and flavorful, though the chilling time may need to be slightly longer to firm up the vegan dough.

Another idea I often try is swapping the chocolate kisses for white chocolate or even caramel-filled chocolates for a completely different but equally irresistible center. And if you want a softer texture, you can reduce the baking time by a minute or two, though watch carefully so they don't underbake. I’ve also experimented with baking these as thumbprint cookies by making a little well and filling with strawberry jam instead of chocolate kisses—equally delicious!

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They usually stay fresh and soft for up to 4 days this way, although they taste best within the first couple of days. If your kitchen is warm, you might want to keep them in a cooler spot to avoid the chocolate from melting.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! I like to freeze them in a single layer first on a baking sheet so they don't stick together, then transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. You can freeze fully baked cookies for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy them again, just thaw at room temperature for about an hour—easy and convenient for last-minute treats or holiday planning.

Reheating

To refresh your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, I recommend warming them gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This softens the cookie and brings back the fresh-baked aroma without melting the chocolate too much. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cookies to become chewy or the chocolate to melt unevenly. Reheating this way always makes them taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry gelatin for this recipe?

That’s a great question! While fresh strawberries add natural flavor, I don’t recommend swapping them directly for the gelatin powder because the gelatin not only flavors but also colors the dough and affects its texture. If you want a fresher taste, consider adding a small amount of strawberry puree alongside the gelatin, but expect a slightly softer dough and a different color.

What happens if I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling the dough is key to preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you skip this step, your cookies might turn out flatter and thinner, and the texture could be less tender. Plus, the chilling gives the strawberry flavor time to meld in, so I always recommend at least one hour in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different chocolate candy instead of the Hershey’s kiss?

Absolutely! While I love the classic kiss shape and size, chocolate drops, mini truffles, or even small squares of your favorite chocolate bar can be used. Just make sure to press them into the cookies right when they come out of the oven so the residual heat helps them stick without melting excessively.

Is almond extract necessary?

Not at all. The almond extract is optional, but I find it adds a subtle nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the strawberry and vanilla flavors. If you don’t have any on hand or prefer to keep the flavor straightforward, just skip it.

How do I make sure the cookies don’t get too sweet?

Balancing sweetness is important to me as well. The combination of granulated sugar and the sweetness in the gelatin usually hits the right note, but if you prefer less sweet cookies, you can slightly reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or so. The powdered sugar dusting is very light and can be omitted if you want to keep sweetness minimal.

Conclusion

I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe as much as I do. There’s something so comforting and joyful about these cookies—their tender pink dough, the burst of strawberry flavor, and that iconic chocolate kiss that brings it all home. They’re perfect for sharing with family, gifting to friends, or simply indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee these cookies will become one of your favorite treats to bake and enjoy time and time again.