When the first hints of spring arrive and the world starts blooming in vibrant colors, I find myself irresistibly drawn to all things strawberry. Picture this: soft, buttery cookies radiating a cheerful pink hue, hiding a luscious chocolate surprise in the middle. These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes—perfect for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply indulging yourself after a long day.
This easy recipe combines the convenience of strawberry cake mix with the richness of cream cheese, creating cookies that are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for something fun to bake with the kids or someone who wants to impress guests with minimal stress, these cookies promise to deliver joy in every bite. So, let’s dive into this sweet adventure and get baking!
Why are Strawberry Kiss Cookies a must-try?
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of these cookies is a heavenly mix of strawberry sweetness and rich chocolate, making them a favorite for dessert lovers.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these treats in no time, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss.
Visually Stunning: Their beautiful pink color and delightful appearance make these cookies perfect for parties, holidays, or just because!
Kid-Friendly Fun: Baking together can be a joyful experience; these cookies are easy enough for kids to help make, bursting with flavor they’ll love.
Versatile Treats: Feel free to customize them with different cake mixes or extracts for a unique twist, or try variations like a lemon cake mix for a zesty surprise.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Strawberry Cake Mix – This is your base ingredient, delivering concentrated strawberry flavor and a soft texture.
- Butter (8 tablespoons / 1/2 cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; let it cool slightly before mixing in.
- Egg (1 large) – Essential for structure and binding, making your cookies perfectly soft.
- Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Guarantees pillowy softness and a rich flavor; substitute with dairy-free cream cheese for a non-dairy version.
For the Surprise Center
- Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (30, unwrapped) – The delicious surprise that melts in your mouth; feel free to swap with different chocolate varieties if desired.
For Rolling (Optional)
- Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of sparkle to your cookie balls; this extra detail makes your Strawberry Kiss Cookies even more irresistible!
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. -
Incorporate Cream Cheese:
Gently fold in the softened cream cheese until it is fully incorporated into the dough, resulting in a thick, creamy texture that promises delicious softness. -
Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. -
Preheat Oven:
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. -
Shape Cookie Balls:
Scoop out chilled dough using a tablespoon and roll it into balls. If you like, roll the cookie balls in powdered sugar or pink granulated sugar for extra sweetness and visual appeal. -
Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring you leave about 2 inches of space between each for even baking. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8–10 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers remain soft, allowing for a chewy texture. -
Add the Chocolate Kiss:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes. Then, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. -
Cool Completely:
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the chocolate to melt just enough to create that perfect center surprise.
Optional: Sprinkle with a little extra powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Imagine delighting in the sweet, soft goodness of strawberry-filled cookies paired with complementary treats that elevate your dessert experience.
- Fresh Strawberries: The natural tartness and juiciness of ripe strawberries enhance the cookie’s sweet flavor, creating a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a deliciously creamy texture that balances the chewy, chocolate-filled cookies beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream against the vibrant strawberry cookies creates a delightful juxtaposition of warmth and chill. Wrap up the evening with ice cream sandwiches for a fun twist!
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies introduces a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Strawberry Milkshake: Pair these cookies with a thick strawberry milkshake for a nostalgic treat that delights both kids and adults alike.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and zesty, this drink cleanses the palate, allowing the sweet flavors of the cookies to shine after each blissful bite.
- Fruit Salad: A bright medley of tropical fruits adds a light, zesty element that beautifully contrasts with the buttery cookies.
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee perfectly complements the sweet richness of the cookies, creating an inviting atmosphere for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix together the cake mix, melted butter, egg, and softened cream cheese, then cover and refrigerate. This not only helps the flavors meld but also prevents excess spreading while baking. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and shape the chilled dough into balls, rolling them in powdered sugar if desired. Bake as directed, pressing a chocolate kiss into the center while still warm. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have deliciously fresh cookies with minimal effort, making busy weeknights feel a little sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week; just be sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Strawberry Kiss Cookies warm, simply reheat them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 5 minutes.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these delicious twists on the classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan butter for a completely dairy-free version that maintains the soft texture.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of strawberries beautifully.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add crunch and depth to the soft cookie texture.
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Chocolate Variants: Experiment with different chocolate centers, like caramel-filled or dark chocolate Kisses, to surprise your taste buds with each bite.
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Fruity Remix: Swap the strawberry cake mix for raspberry or vanilla for a delightful flavor experiment while keeping the wonderful texture intact.
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Coconut Finish: Roll the cookie balls in sweetened shredded coconut before baking for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
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Chunky Style: For a more rustic style, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough, providing extra gooeyness in every bite.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 1 hour to maintain the cute shape of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies while baking.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies; take them out once the edges are set but centers are soft. Overbaking turns them hard.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened and butter is slightly cooled for smooth incorporation, enhancing texture.
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Customize with Flavors: Feel free to add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for a delightful flavor boost to your cookies.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Always space the cookie balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet for even baking and to prevent sticking.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose strawberry cake mix?
When selecting strawberry cake mix, look for one that lists natural flavors and vibrant color on the ingredients label. It’s also best to choose a box with a good shelf life, ensuring quality and flavor when you bake your cookies.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week; just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If your cookies have spread more than desired, it might be due to warm dough or insufficient chilling time. To troubleshoot, ensure the dough is chilled for at least 1 hour. If your kitchen is warmer, consider chilling the rolled cookie balls for an additional 10 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies suitable for those with allergies?
These cookies contain common allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs. For a dairy-free version, swap out the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and ensure your cake mix doesn’t contain milk. Always check labels for specific dietary needs, especially if serving to guests with allergies.
Can I use another flavor of cake mix?
Yes, feel free to mix things up! You can swap the strawberry cake mix for other flavors like lemon or vanilla for a delightful twist. Just bear in mind that this will change the overall flavor profile of the cookies, but it could lead to delicious new creations!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
Irresistibly Soft Strawberry Kiss Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Gently fold in the softened cream cheese until it is fully incorporated into the dough.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop out chilled dough using a tablespoon and roll it into balls.
- Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring you leave about 2 inches of space between each.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes.
- Gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while they're still warm.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
