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A perfect blend of buttery sweetness and fresh strawberry essence comes together in these charming pink cookies. Each one cradles a chocolate kiss like a precious jewel, creating a delightful treat that's as beautiful as it is delicious. These Strawberry Kiss Cookies bring a touch of romance to any cookie platter.
I started making these for my daughter's Valentine's Day school parties, and now they're requested year-round. The secret to their popularity? The unexpected combination of strawberry and chocolate that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults.
Essential Ingredients
- Butter: Must be properly softened - you should be able to leave a fingerprint but not sink through
- Strawberry Gelatin: Adds both flavor and that lovely pink color naturally
- Room Temperature Egg: Cold eggs can cause the butter to seize
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla creates depth of flavor that balances the sweetness
- Chocolate Kisses: Unwrap them before baking so they're ready when needed
- All-Purpose Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measuring
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Detailed Instructions
- Step 1:
- Start by leaving your butter and egg out for at least 2 hours to reach proper room temperature
- Step 2:
- Beat the butter alone first until it's creamy and smooth - this usually takes about 1 minute
- Step 3:
- Add sugar gradually while beating, watching for the mixture to become lighter in color
- Step 4:
- Crack your egg into a separate bowl first to ensure no shell pieces get into your dough
- Step 5:
- Mix in the extracts until just combined - overmixing can cause tough cookies
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the gelatin powder slowly while mixing to prevent clumps
- Step 7:
- Whisk your dry ingredients separately to distribute the leavening evenly
- Step 8:
- Add flour mixture in three parts, mixing just until combined each time
- Step 9:
- Roll dough balls between your palms until perfectly smooth
- Step 10:
- Make thumbprints with a gentle twisting motion for clean indentations
- Step 11:
- Watch cookies carefully while baking - edges should be just set but still soft
- Step 12:
- Press kisses in immediately after removing from oven while cookies are soft
Perfect Presentation Tips
Create a stunning display by arranging cookies in concentric circles on a pretty plate, with the chocolate kisses creating an eye-catching pattern.
Storage Secrets
These cookies maintain their texture best when stored in an airtight container with wax paper between layers.
My grandchildren love helping make these cookies. Their little thumbs make the perfect-sized indentations, and they take such pride in precisely placing each chocolate kiss.
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These strawberry kiss cookies have become more than just a recipe in our family - they're part of our traditions. Every Valentine's Day, three generations gather to make batch after batch, filling the house with sweet memories and the irresistible aroma of strawberries and chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
- Yes, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- → Why do my cookies spread too much?
- Make sure your butter isn't too soft and chill the dough if it feels warm before baking.
- → Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
- Yes, sugar-free gelatin works but may slightly affect the texture and sweetness.
- → When's the best time to add the chocolate kiss?
- Add kisses while cookies are still warm but not hot, about 2-3 minutes after removing from oven.
- → Can I skip the almond extract?
- Yes, you can omit it or replace with additional vanilla extract.