As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a box of strawberry cake mix tucked away, and suddenly, memories of summer picnics flooded my mind. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Strawberry Kiss Cookies, which have quickly become a cherished recipe in my home. These delightful treats not only bring a pop of color to your dessert table but also offer the incredible perk of being an effortless crowd-pleaser. With just 25 minutes of active time, you can make cookies that are soft, sweet, and wonderfully chewy, thanks to the irresistible Hershey Kisses nestled in the center. Whether you’re looking to sweeten up a gathering or just need a quick fix for your sweet tooth, these cookies promise a delicious escape from the ordinary. Ready to take your cookie game to the next level? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Effortless Preparation: These Strawberry Kiss Cookies come together in just 15 minutes of prep, making them an easy choice for any baking novice or busy home chef.
Burst of Flavor: The sweet flavor of strawberry cake mix paired with gooey chocolate Hershey Kisses brings a delightful twist to your traditional cookie, ensuring each bite is packed with joy.
Charming Presentation: Their vibrant hue and inviting appearance make these cookies an eye-catching addition to any dessert spread, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations, these cookies are guaranteed to impress your friends. Check out our Cookie Tips for extra inspiration!
Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the little ones involved in the baking process—who doesn’t love rolling cookie dough in sugar? This recipe transforms baking into a fun family activity.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- ½ cup vegetable oil – This keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for binding the dough together and adding richness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies so they bake well.
- 15.25 oz strawberry cake mix – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their delightful strawberry flavor.
- 2 tablespoons milk – A splash of milk helps to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
For Rolling & Topping
- Granulated sugar – Rolling the dough in sugar adds a sweet crunch and helps with caramelization.
- 24 Hershey Kisses – A delicious surprise in the center that melts beautifully when baked.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of vegetable oil and 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This should take about 2 minutes. The consistency will be shiny and slightly thicker. Next, begin to incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 15.25 oz of strawberry cake mix, mixing just until no dry flour remains.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Add in 2 tablespoons of milk, stirring gently to create a cohesive dough. It should be soft and slightly sticky. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Once combined, scoop the dough using a #30 cookie scoop or about 2 tablespoons for each cookie. Shape each scoop into a ball, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform baking.
Step 3: Roll in Sugar
Take each dough ball and roll it generously in granulated sugar, ensuring each cookie is well-coated. This step adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the exterior of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies. Once coated, place the sugar-encrusted balls on a tray. You can fit them close together, as they won’t spread much.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover your tray with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour, which helps to firm up the cookies and maintain their shape while baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture, so don’t skip it!
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375ºF and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This setup ensures that your Strawberry Kiss Cookies bake evenly and can be easily removed after baking. While the oven heats, keep the remaining dough chilled to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Once the oven is ready, bake the cookies one sheet at a time for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look set but still soft. Keep an eye on them, as every oven varies slightly in temperature.
Step 7: Add the Kisses
Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will cause the chocolate to melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey center that enhances your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely, as this helps them set properly and makes them easier to store. Once cooled, these vibrant Strawberry Kiss Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or neatly stored in an airtight container.
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Imagine your kitchen filled with the sweet, mouthwatering aroma of strawberry and chocolate, creating a delightful backdrop for any gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla melts into the warm cookies, creating a luscious sweet treat that elevates the experience.
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Fresh Strawberries: The juicy freshness balances the rich flavors of the cookies; their bright color and tartness make for a lovely presentation.
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Chocolate Milk: Rich and creamy, this classic drink is perfect for dunking and pairs beautifully with the sugary sweetness of your cookies.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly-sweetened whipped cream on the side adds a light, airy texture that complements the chewy cookies.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert spread.
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Mint Tea: The herbal notes of mint tea provide a refreshing cleanse between bites, enhancing the flavors of both the cookies and any accompanying treats.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty fizz brings an effervescent twist, perfectly cutting through the sweetness of the Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a delightful pairing.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The crunchy saltiness and chocolatey goodness create a fun snack that can enhance the overall flavor experience.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent twist, serve a side of cream cheese frosting for dipping, adding a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the strawberry notes.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty option that anyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the dough for a delightful crunch and richness. Nuts bring a whole new texture that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Chocolate Lover: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips along with the dough for an extra chocolatey treat. The combination of strawberry and chocolate is a classic match that will keep your taste buds dancing.
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Berry Burst: Substitute the strawberry cake mix with blueberry or raspberry cake mix for a fruity twist that’s just as delightful. You’ll be surprised at how these vibrant flavors turn everyday cookies into something special!
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace the eggs with ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce and use a plant-based milk alternative for a vegan version, allowing everyone to join in on the fun.
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Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough. This little heat can elevate the flavors and offer a surprising twist in each bite.
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Easy Cream Cheese Filling: For an indulgent surprise, create a small thumbprint in the center of the cookie before baking and fill it with cream cheese filling. This will make every bite creamier and even more luscious.
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Festive Sprinkles: Roll the cookie dough balls in colorful sprinkles instead of granulated sugar for a fun, festive look, especially during celebrations. Kids will love the added pop of color!
These variations will elevate your baking game! Consider pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee, perhaps even exploring some delightful Cookie Pairing Ideas to create the ultimate dessert experience.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Perfect Chilling Time: Chill the dough for at least 1 hour. This crucial step prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring a delightful, chewy texture.
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Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry cookie.
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Rolling Technique: When rolling the dough balls in sugar, make sure they’re evenly coated. This adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
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Hershey Kiss Placement: Press the Hershey Kisses gently into the cookies right after they come out of the oven. This allows the chocolate to melt just enough for a gooey center without losing its shape.
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Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for portioning your dough. This ensures that all your cookies bake at the same rate, preventing some from being over or undercooked.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember, refrigeration might slightly change their texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, allowing your Strawberry Kiss Cookies to regain their gooey chocolate center!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients, scoop the dough into balls, and roll them in granulated sugar. Then cover and refrigerate the unbaked cookie dough. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the cookies as instructed, pressing a Hershey Kiss into each one right after they come out of the oven. This method allows you to enjoy fresh, warm cookies in minutes, ensuring they’re just as delicious as if you had made them on the spot!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries are best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, use a high-quality strawberry cake mix. While fresh strawberries can be tempting, they won’t yield the same delightful sweetness and texture as the cake mix. Opt for a brand you trust or one that you know delivers delicious results!
How long can I store these cookies?
You can keep your Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Just note that refrigeration might alter the texture slightly.
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a quick treat!
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much in the oven?
Be sure to chill your dough for at least 1 hour before baking. This is a crucial step! It helps to firm up the dough, allowing the cookies to maintain their shape and achieve a wonderfully chewy texture. Also, make sure not to overmix the dough, as this can make cookies spread more than desired.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Yes, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for kids! They are simple to make, and the fun of rolling the dough in sugar and pressing in the Hershey Kisses makes for a delightful baking activity. Just be mindful of any potential allergies to chocolate or gluten in the cake mix.
What if I don’t have Hershey Kisses?
If you're out of Hershey Kisses, worry not! You can substitute them with other chocolates like chocolate chips, peanut butter cups, or even a white chocolate bar cut into smaller pieces. Just be sure that the substitute melts well, as the gooey center is a key delight in these Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
Irresistibly Chewy Strawberry Kiss Cookies to Swoon Over
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- cookie scoop
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- whisk
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil Keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
- 2 large eggs Essential for binding the dough.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure.
- 15.25 oz strawberry cake mix Star ingredient for flavor.
- 2 tablespoons milk Helps achieve perfect dough consistency.
For Rolling & Topping
- granulated sugar Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 24 Hershey Kisses Delicious surprise in the center.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of vegetable oil and 2 large eggs until fully combined.
- Incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 15.25 oz of strawberry cake mix until no dry flour remains.
- Add in 2 tablespoons of milk, stirring gently to create a cohesive dough.
- Scoop the dough using a #30 cookie scoop and shape into balls.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar.
- Cover the tray with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Bake cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
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