Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a sweet treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, they’re not just perfect for Valentine’s Day but also a delightful snack year-round. The use of strawberry cake mix offers a shortcut to intense flavor, making them easy to whip up. Topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The strawberry cake mix infuses each cookie with vibrant strawberry goodness that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Toppings: You can swap out the Hershey Kisses for different flavors to match any occasion or preference.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make an excellent gift for loved ones or a tasty addition to any gathering.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will enjoy helping roll the dough in sugar and placing the Kisses on top!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Kiss Cookies seamlessly, having the right tools will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Cookie scoop: This tool ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking, resulting in beautifully shaped cookies.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 box strawberry cake mix
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk

For Rolling

• Granulated sugar (for rolling)

For Topping

• Hershey Kisses (unwrapped)

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How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil and eggs until well combined. Gradually add in the flour and strawberry cake mix. Stir in the milk and mix just until a dough forms.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Using a #30 cookie scoop or about 2 tablespoons per cookie, scoop the dough into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Bake cookies one sheet at a time for 8–10 minutes. Keep remaining dough chilled between batches.

Step 4: Add the Kisses

Immediately after baking, gently press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring or storing.

Enjoy these Strawberry Kiss Cookies as a treat that is both fun to make and delicious!

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies offer versatility in serving.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the sweet strawberry flavor perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package these cookies in decorative bags with ribbon for a charming take-home gift at parties.

At a Valentine’s Day Celebration

• Serve these cookies as part of a romantic dessert platter alongside strawberries and whipped cream.

With Ice Cream

• Top your Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

How to Perfect Strawberry Kiss Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps maintain the shape of the cookies and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check expiration dates on your cake mix and eggs for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
• Experiment with Kisses: Try different varieties of Hershey Kisses, like caramel or almond, to create unique flavors.
• Roll in Sugar Generously: Rolling the dough balls in sugar adds sweetness and a lovely sparkly finish.

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Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

While Strawberry Kiss Cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with other treats can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great side dishes to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve melted chocolate for dipping alongside your cookies; it creates an interactive dessert experience.
3. Yogurt Parfaits
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy option that complements the cookies nicely.
4. Cheesecake Bites
   Small cheesecake portions provide a rich contrast to the lightness of Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
5. Coffee or Tea
   A warm beverage pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of strawberry and chocolate in your cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes
   Choose flavors that match or contrast well with strawberries, like vanilla or lemon, for extra sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Kiss Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Chill: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill for at least 1 hour.
• Incorrect Measurements: Using more or less than the recommended ingredients can alter the texture. Use precise measurements for best results.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are set but centers are still soft.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on sheets can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always line your sheets with parchment paper.
• Ignoring Flavor Customization: Sticking only to Hershey’s Kisses might limit flavors. Try different varieties of Kisses for a fun twist!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Strawberry Kiss Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag after frozen.
• Cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Kiss Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm cookies for about 1-2 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Strawberry Kiss Cookies from scratch?

You can make these cookies without cake mix by using flour, sugar, baking powder, and strawberry puree instead.

Can I use other types of cake mix?

Yes! You can experiment with different flavored cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate for unique variations of strawberry kiss cookies.

What is the best way to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for longer preservation.

How do I customize my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or nuts, or try different flavors of Hershey’s Kisses like caramel or almond.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy delicious gluten-free Strawberry Kiss Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are not only adorable but also simple to make and perfect for various occasions. Their soft and chewy texture combined with customizable flavors makes them a delightful treat to share. Try them today and explore different variations!

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