Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful treat that bursts with fruity sweetness and chocolaty goodness, the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe is just what you need. These charming cookies combine the soft, tender crumb of strawberry jam-infused dough with a luscious milk chocolate kiss right in the center, making every bite feel like a mini celebration. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and a subtle cornstarch-treated texture, these cookies are irresistibly soft and buttery. Whether you bake them for a party, a cozy afternoon snack, or a special gift, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step towards these scrumptious Strawberry Kiss Cookies. Each component plays an important role: from the butter lending richness to the powdered sugar adding a gentle finish, every element contributes to flavor, texture, and that signature look.

• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the structure of the cookie, providing the perfect tender base.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Ensures just enough rise for a soft, light texture.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances the cookie’s flavors.
• Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Brings richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies and helps create that slight crisp edge.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s tenderness.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds aromatic warmth to complement the strawberry notes.
• Strawberry jam or preserves (1/2 cup): Infuses the dough with fresh fruity flavor and beautiful pink color.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Lightens the dough for that perfectly soft, delicate texture.
• Milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped (24): The star of the show that fills each cookie with creamy chocolate bliss.
• Powdered sugar (optional): Adds a pretty, festive dusting for a charming finishing touch.

How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the stage for even baking and easy cleanup, and it ensures your cookies won’t stick and will bake to a light golden perfection.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening evenly, making sure each cookie rises just right and that the cornstarch brings that tender crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key for incorporating air that gives the cookies their wonderful texture and slight crisp on the edges.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and strawberry jam to the butter and sugar mixture. The jam isn’t just for flavor; it also contributes moisture and a subtle pink hue that makes these cookies visually inviting and irresistibly fruity.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make cookies tough. This fusion of ingredients yields a soft, luscious dough that’s ready to become your next favorite cookie.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Keeping some space allows the cookies to spread evenly while baking and maintain a nice round shape.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden and the centers appear set. The aroma while baking is heavenly; the perfect combination of butter, strawberry, and vanilla will fill your kitchen with warmth.

Step 8: Add the Chocolate Kiss

Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press one milk chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The chocolate softens slightly, melding with the fruity cookie for that signature hit of luxury in every bite.

Step 9: Cool and Add a Sweet Finish

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes so they set with the chocolate kiss in place, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired to add a festive, snowy effect that makes these cookies even more special.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For a pretty presentation, dust the cooled cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or add a small fresh strawberry slice next to the cookie on the serving tray. This simple touch highlights the strawberry flavor and adds visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. A bowl of fresh berries or a light vanilla yogurt can also complement the fruity and chocolate notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies in a mason jar or wrapping a small bundle with a colorful ribbon as a lovely gift. For parties, arrange them on a platter with alternating shapes or colors of kisses for a fun twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cookies maintain their softness nicely, and the chocolate centers stay deliciously melty yet firm.

Freezing

To freeze, place baked and cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

Warm cookies gently in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to revive that soft texture and slightly melted chocolate center. Be careful not to overheat, or the cookies might become too soft or the chocolate too runny.

FAQs

Can I use other types of jam besides strawberry?

Absolutely! While strawberry jam is classic for this recipe, raspberry, cherry, or even apricot preserves make delicious alternatives. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the dough’s texture.

Do I need to use cornstarch? What does it do?

Cornstarch is key for creating that incredibly tender, soft texture. It lightens the dough by reducing gluten formation, giving the cookies a delicate crumb that you won’t get with flour alone.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help maintain the cookie’s structure and chewiness.

Why do I press the chocolate kiss into the cookie while it is still warm?

Pressing the chocolate kiss into warm cookies allows it to melt slightly and stick perfectly, creating that signature gooey chocolate center that distinguishes these cookies from ordinary ones.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This can even enhance the flavor and texture by allowing the ingredients to meld.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out, the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe offers a wonderfully simple way to create something truly special. Bright, charming, and packed with flavor, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe a few happy tears from anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of sweet, strawberry-kissed happiness!

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