Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

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There is something utterly magical about these tender, buttery Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe that brings together the perfect balance of sweet strawberry jam and rich milk chocolate. Each bite melts with a fruity punch and a velvety chocolate center, making them an irresistible treat that’s as fun to make as it is to share. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy afternoon snack, or just because, these cookies will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple but crucial for achieving those soft, flavorful cookies with a luscious center. Every component plays its part, from the vanilla-scented dough to the strawberry jam that infuses a bright color and taste, rounded off with the iconic milk chocolate kisses to complete the cookie’s charm.

• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation that gives your cookies structure while keeping them tender.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the cookies rise just perfectly for a soft bite.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps with browning.
• One large egg: Binds ingredients together and lends moisture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Strawberry jam or preserves (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that brings bright color and fruity sweetness.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Keeps the cookies soft and delicate.
• Milk chocolate kisses (24, unwrapped): The delightful surprise that melts into a creamy center.
• Powdered sugar (optional): For a pretty, festive dusting on top.

How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by warming up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This little prep step ensures your cookies bake evenly and slide off effortlessly once done.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Combining these dry ingredients in advance makes sure they’re evenly distributed, which is key for that perfect cookie texture throughout.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. This creaming step traps air in the dough, giving your cookies a tender crumb and subtle lift.

Step 4: Add the Wet Goodies

Next, mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and delicious strawberry jam. The strawberry jam infuses fruity sweetness and moisture, making these cookies uniquely irresistible. Make sure everything is combined well before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is beautifully incorporated. Don’t overmix here; just enough to bring the dough together ensures the cookies stay soft instead of tough.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and carefully space them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. This spacing lets the cookies spread perfectly without merging into one another.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely light golden color and the centers are set. You want them just done for that soft, chewy texture.

Step 8: Add the Chocolate Kisses

While the cookies are still warm, gently press an unwrapped milk chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth helps slightly melt the chocolate, creating a gooey, irresistible core. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Optional Finishing Touch

Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar for that extra festive, snowy look—totally optional but highly recommended for special occasions.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop, try sprinkling crushed freeze-dried strawberries or a light drizzle of white chocolate over your cookies. These little finishing touches enhance both flavor and presentation, perfect for impressing family and friends.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of textures and temperatures creates a delightful dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe on a festive platter with fresh strawberries and mint sprigs for a beautiful gift or holiday centerpiece. Wrapping individual cookies in cellophane tied with a colorful ribbon makes a charming edible gift too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and soft for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked dough balls or fully baked cookies. For dough, freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, wrap tightly and freeze in a container—this preserves freshness and flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen or refrigerated cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. The chocolate kiss will soften beautifully, and the cookie will regain its just-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I substitute the strawberry jam with another flavor?

Absolutely! Raspberry or cherry preserves work wonderfully and bring a unique twist. Just choose your favorite fruit jam to personalize your cookies.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch helps create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. While you can leave it out, your cookies might be a bit firmer and less delicate.

Can I use dark or white chocolate kisses instead of milk chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different chocolate varieties to suit your taste. Dark chocolate adds a richer flavor, while white chocolate makes them extra creamy and sweet.

Why do I press the chocolate kiss into the cookie right after baking?

Pressing the chocolate while the cookies are warm allows it to melt slightly, creating a luscious, gooey center that’s the hallmark of this recipe.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough briefly if it feels too soft. Also, using parchment paper and proper spacing helps maintain shape.

Final Thoughts

Making the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe is like opening a little box of joy—each cookie bursting with strawberry sweetness and chocolatey goodness. Once you try them, these tender treats will become a staple for all your celebrations and cozy moments. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delightful cookies today. Your taste buds will thank you!

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