There’s an undeniable joy in the first bite of a cookie that practically melts in your mouth, and my Strawberry Kiss Cookies deliver just that. The scent of warm strawberries and sweet cream cheese fills the air, beckoning friends and family to gather around. These little delights are a true celebration of flavor, combining the softness of a freshly baked cookie with the whimsical touch of a strawberry kiss nestled in the center.
Perfect for holiday get-togethers, cozy afternoons, or simply when you want to indulge in something special, these cookies are both incredibly easy to make and utterly irresistible. With just six ingredients and a quick 20-minute prep time, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can whip up these mouthwatering treats. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply craving something sweet, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are your go-to solution for all occasions!
Why are Strawberry Kiss Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible sweetness: Each bite offers a burst of strawberry flavor combined with creamy goodness.
Super easy to make: You only need six ingredients and 20 minutes—perfect for busy bakers!
Versatile options: Get creative by swapping cake mix flavors or using different candies.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for festive gatherings or casual get-togethers, they’re sure to impress!
Gluten-free friendly: A simple tweak to the cake mix makes this recipe accessible for everyone.
Each cookie brings a smile, making them an absolute favorite among friends and family.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; be sure to bring it to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Strawberry Cake Mix (15.25 ounces) – Simplifies the recipe while enhancing the strawberry flavor; feel free to explore alternative cake mix flavors for a twist.
• Powdered Sugar – Provides a touch of sweetness and ensures a fine coating around the cookie dough; don’t substitute with granulated sugar for best results.
• Cream Cheese (8 ounces) – Creates a creamy texture in the cookies; it must be at room temperature for proper incorporation.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and enhances the cookie’s structure; ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth mix.
For the Topping
• Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses (36 pieces) – The delightful topping for each cookie, adding sweetness and visual flair; these kisses make your Strawberry Kiss Cookies truly irresistible.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Beat the Base: In a large bowl, combine the unsalted butter, egg, and cream cheese. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Mix in Cake Mix: Gradually add the strawberry cake mix to the bowl, mixing until thoroughly combined. The dough should be soft and well-blended, showcasing that delicious strawberry flavor.
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Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape.
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Preheat Your Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Shape the Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to form balls of dough, then roll each ball in powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Aim for about 1-inch in diameter for perfect cookie size.
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Arrange on Sheets: Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1.5 inches apart. This allows them to spread out while baking without merging together.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until you notice that the edges are set. They should look slightly puffy but still soft in the middle.
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Add the Kisses: As soon as they come out of the oven, gently press a strawberry kiss into the center of each cookie. Let them cool on the baking sheets to maintain their shape and form.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Soft Dough: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth, easy-to-mix dough. Cold ingredients can lead to clumps.
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Chill Thoroughly: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the dough firm up, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies without spreading too much while baking.
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Watch Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Remove them from the oven while they still look slightly underbaked for that desired soft texture.
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Cookie Spacing: Space cookie balls 1.5 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for spreading. This prevents them from merging into each other.
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Variety in Flavors: Experiment with different flavored cake mixes. You can create unique twists on classic Strawberry Kiss Cookies that suit any season or festivity!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this delightful recipe and make it your own!
- Chocolate Twist: Swap out the strawberry cake mix for a chocolate mix for a deliciously rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the kisses.
- Vanilla Dreams: Use vanilla cake mix instead of strawberry for a classic taste that lets the cream cheese shine through while maintaining that soft texture.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in half a cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and a lovely flavor contrast in every bite.
- Coconut Lovers: Add unsweetened shredded coconut (1/4 cup) to the batter for a tropical twist that enhances each cookie with a subtle chewiness.
- Festive Colored Kisses: Replace strawberry kisses with festive colored candies like M&Ms or seasonal candy corn to match any holiday theme you are celebrating.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful treats, making them perfect for gatherings!
- Minty Fresh: Replace kisses with mint chocolate candies for a refreshing twist that brings a cool flavor to every cookie.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warm hint of spice that balances the sweetness in a uniquely delightful way.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness, keeping them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container, but they may lose some texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
Thawing: To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, which will bring back their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all ingredients and chill the wrapped dough in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or refrigerate for freshness. To enjoy them at their best, reheat cookies in a warm oven for a few minutes before adding the kisses. This ensures that each bite remains soft, chewy, and just as delicious as when freshly baked!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Indulging in these delightful cookies invites a variety of accompaniments that can elevate your dessert experience even further.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and vanilla flavor perfectly balance the fruity strawberry kiss, creating a delightful contrast. A scoop alongside your cookies brings a new level of indulgence.
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Fresh Berries Medley: Slices of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add freshness and a pop of color, enhancing the fruitiness already present in the cookies. This vibrant combination makes for a beautiful presentation.
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Decadent Chocolate Drizzle: A simple melt of dark or white chocolate drizzled over the cookies can elevate their visual appeal and taste. The sweet, silky chocolate envelops the strawberry flavor, making every bite extra special.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy component, perfectly complementing the dense cookie texture. It can also be flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond for added sophistication.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade cuts through the sweetness and enhances the fruity notes of the cookies. Its fizzy tang will leave your taste buds dancing for joy.
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Café-Style Coffee: Whether it’s a rich espresso or a milky cappuccino, coffee pairs beautifully with these cookies. The warm, robust flavors of coffee contrast delightfully with the sweetness of the Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced strawberries for a delightful dessert that beautifully complements the cookies. The creamy, tangy yogurt adds richness, making this a satisfying choice.
With these pairing ideas, your Strawberry Kiss Cookies will shine even brighter at gatherings or cozy family nights!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my strawberries are ripe enough for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm to the touch, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may not provide the best flavor for your cookies. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, using high-quality strawberry cake mix works beautifully too!
What is the best way to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer-lasting cookies, refrigerate them in the same container for up to 5 days but be aware that they may lose some of their initial texture. If you’d like to save them even longer, follow the freezing method below.
How do I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies properly?
You can easily freeze your cookies for up to 3 months! First, ensure they are completely cooled and placed in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then layer them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to bring them back to that delightful fresh-baked texture.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry. You can add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough for a bit longer can help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape without sticking to your hands.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely, it’s easy to adapt! Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of standard strawberry cake mix. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the powdered sugar and strawberry kisses, are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies!
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, you can substitute regular cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for mixing. This way, you can keep that creamy texture while catering to dietary restrictions!
Sweet Strawberry Kiss Cookies: Easy Treats in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the unsalted butter, egg, and cream cheese. Beat until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add the strawberry cake mix, mixing until blended.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Use a cookie scoop to form balls, rolling in powdered sugar.
- Place cookie balls on baking sheets, spaced 1.5 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and cookies are puffy.
- Press a strawberry kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after baking.