When the first hints of spring fill the air, I can’t help but think of sweet treats that capture the essence of love and warmth. Enter my delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies—soft, buttery morsels that whisper “Valentine’s Day” in every bite. As the delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen, I find joy in the moment when a cheerful batch comes together effortlessly from just a Funfetti sugar cookie mix.
These cookies aren’t just about taste; they embody the spirit of sharing and connection. With the unexpected twist of fruity Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses nestled in the center, you’ll experience a perfect blend of flavors that charm both friends and family alike. Plus, their easy prep makes them a fantastic option for anyone tired of the same old fast food routine. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just craving something comforting, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies will have everyone reaching for seconds! Ready to bake some love? Let’s get started!
Why are Strawberry Kiss Cookies a must-try?
Delightful Flavors: These Strawberry Kiss Cookies marry sweet and fruity flavors, thanks to the unique Hershey’s Kisses at their core.
Easy to Make: Using a Funfetti sugar cookie mix means you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy bakers!
Sharing is Caring: Their cheerful appearance and delightful taste make them ideal for gatherings, ensuring smiles all around.
Versatile Options: With different Hershey’s Kiss flavors available, you can customize these cookies to suit any occasion or personal preference.
Perfect Texture: Experience the ideal combination of chewy richness and crunchy sweetness that turns every bite into a memorable treat.
Bake these cookies as a sweet gift for loved ones or a special treat for yourself; they’re sure to impress!
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Funfetti Sugar Cookie Mix – Adds a delightful sweetness and vibrant sprinkles; feel free to swap it with regular sugar cookie mix or strawberry cake mix for a different twist.
• Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Introduces richness and moisture into the cookies, keeping them soft; make sure it’s softened for easy blending.
• Large Egg (1) – Acts as a binder, providing fat for a tender texture that holds the cookie together nicely.
For Decorating
• Pink or White Sanding Sugar (½ cup) – Gives a crunchy, decorative finish; you can use colored sprinkles or even crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a unique touch.
For the Center
• Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses (18) – The fruity chocolate surprise that makes these cookies irresistible; try using other flavors like milk chocolate or caramel for a delightful variation.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the cookies from sticking.
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Combine the Funfetti sugar cookie mix, softened cream cheese, and egg in a large mixing bowl. Blend until a soft dough forms, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
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Chill the dough if it’s sticky by placing it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
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Scoop approximately 1½ tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Coat each ball in sanding sugar by dipping it into a shallow bowl filled with sugar to add a sweet crunch.
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Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1½ inches of space between each one. This allows them to spread without sticking together.
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Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft. A beautiful golden hue will appear, inviting you to taste!
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 3–5 minutes. Then, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie before letting them cool completely or enjoying them warm.
Optional: Serve with a glass of milk for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Ready to add your own personal twist to these delightful cookies? Let’s make them uniquely yours!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan cream cheese or coconut cream for a lighter option.
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Flavor Boost: Substitute the strawberry Kisses with chocolate or caramel-flavored Kisses to create a whole new cookie experience that your taste buds will love!
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Sprinkle Joy: Replace sanding sugar with colorful jimmies or coarse sugar for a festive touch that’s sure to cheer everyone up.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough to evoke warm, cozy feelings with every bite.
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Citrusy Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into your dough for a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Decadent Layers: Make sandwich cookies by adding a layer of frosting or whipped cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of traditional flour mixes to cater to your gluten-sensitive friends while keeping the flavor intact.
Feel free to explore these variations to suit your taste, gather around with loved ones, and enjoy a batch of warm, personalized strawberry kisses!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies
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Check Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not overly sticky; if it feels too sticky, chilling it for 30–60 minutes will help.
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Perfectly Bake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden on the edges, with centers staying soft for a perfect texture.
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Kiss Placement: Gently press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies just after baking—waiting until they cool slightly helps them maintain their shape and create a melty surprise.
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Storage Matters: Store your Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Refrigerate for a week or freeze with parchment layers for up to 3 months.
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Colorful Coating Options: Experiment with colored sanding sugar or sprinkles to match different occasions; they add a festive touch to your cookies!
What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Savor the sweetness of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies with delightful accompaniments that elevate both flavor and fun.
- Chilled Strawberry Lemonade: Refreshing and zesty, this drink complements the fruity notes of the cookies, creating a bright contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds richness and balances the fruity sweetness of the Kisses, making every bite indulgent.
- Milk Hot Chocolate: The cozy warmth of chocolatey milk invites a nostalgic touch, perfect for pairing alongside these sweet treats on chilly days.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of diced strawberries, blueberries, and oranges introduces juicy freshness, enhancing the overall dessert experience with vibrant colors.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a fun, sweet-and-salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the cookies.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of brewed coffee brings out the rich flavors in the cookies, perfect for a delightful afternoon treat or cozy gathering.
- Red Velvet Cupcakes: For a festive feel, serve these alongside your cookies; their rich flavor and creamy frosting harmonize wonderfully with the fruity hints.
- Festive Spritzer: A sparkling drink with a splash of fruit juice adds a fizzy uplift, making your gathering feel extra special as you share your treats.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the Funfetti sugar cookie mix, cream cheese, and egg, then refrigerating it. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in sanding sugar, and proceed with baking as usual. You can also store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For the best taste and texture, press the Hershey’s Kisses into the warm cookies just after baking, ensuring a gooey center that melts in your mouth. Enjoy effortless baking on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep your cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, layer cooled cookies with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container—these Strawberry Kiss Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop frozen cookies into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re warmed through.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is softened and at room temperature for easy mixing. When choosing your Hershey’s Kisses, look for any packaging that is free of damage and has a good date—this helps ensure a fresh taste!
How should I store the Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them lasting a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be sure to keep them sealed tight to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies for later?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first, let them cool completely. Then, layer the cookies with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, reheat them at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to enjoy that fresh-baked goodness all over again.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky to handle?
Very common! If your dough feels overly sticky, simply chill it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and roll into balls. Additionally, lightly coating your hands with sanding sugar while handling the dough can help manage stickiness.
Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies safe for people with allergies?
It’s essential to consider allergies! These cookies contain common allergens like wheat (from the cookie mix), eggs, and dairy (from the cream cheese). Be cautious and check the labels for cross-contaminants or substitutes if you or someone you’re baking for has dietary restrictions. For a nut-free version, ensure all ingredients are free from cross-contamination with nuts.
Can I use different flavored Hershey’s Kisses?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! Feel free to mix things up by using other flavors of Hershey’s Kisses—milk chocolate, caramel, or even peppermint for a seasonal twist—while keeping the foundation of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies the same. This makes them adaptable for any occasion!
Irresistible Strawberry Kiss Cookies for Sweet Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the Funfetti sugar cookie mix, softened cream cheese, and egg in a large mixing bowl.
- Chill the dough if it's sticky by placing it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes.
- Scoop approximately 1½ tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Coat each ball in sanding sugar.
- Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1½ inches of space between each one.
- Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 3–5 minutes. Then, gently press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie.