Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Delicate cookies infused with strawberry gelatin, topped with chocolate kisses for a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
For the dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened room temperature, not oily or warm
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature warms the dough and gives structure
- 1 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract anchors the berry note
- 1/2 tsp alcohol-free almond flavouring (optional) adds a complementary flavor
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour spoon and level or weigh for accuracy
- 1 tsp baking powder light lift without chewiness
- 1/4 tsp salt balances sweetness
- 1 pkg (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix adds strawberry aroma and pink color
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- 24-30 pieces chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped choose bittersweet or milk based on desired sweetness
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.
- Add the egg, alcohol-free vanilla extract, and alcohol-free almond flavouring (if using). Beat until well combined.
- Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated and the batter reads uniformly pink.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms.
- If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add 1–2 extra tablespoons of flour.
Shape & Chill the Cookies
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for best results).
Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Do NOT press an indentation into the dough before baking.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the edges look set and slightly firm.
Finish with the Kisses & Powdered Sugar
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes.
- Dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar first, then gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
Notes
Serve these cookies at room temperature for the best texture. Pair with black tea or espresso for a delightful contrast.