There’s nothing quite like the cheerful aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when those cookies are adorned with a chocolate kiss at their center. I found myself in a delightful baking mood one sunny afternoon, inspired by a vibrant pink cake mix sitting in my pantry. That’s when the idea for Strawberry Kiss Cookies was born—an effortless and delicious creation that blends playful flavors with comfort.

These cookies are a delightful escape from the ordinary, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a hug in every bite. With a simple list of ingredients, including a dash of cream cheese for that extra softness, this recipe is perfect for pleasing friends and family or rekindling nostalgia on a quiet evening at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Strawberry Kiss Cookies bring joy to every occasion. Get ready to unlock the secrets of this easy, vegetarian treat that’s sure to impress!

Why are Strawberry Kiss Cookies a Must-Try?

Delightful Appearance: Their cheerful pink color makes these cookies visually stunning, perfect for any gathering.
Easy to Make: With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is approachable for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Each bite offers a soft, chewy cookie with a rich chocolate center, creating a heavenly experience.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to swap in different cake mixes or chocolate varieties, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or an everyday treat, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are sure to steal the show. For more fun cookie ideas, check out Acorn Candy Cookies that are equally irresistible!

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delightful treat!

For the Cookie Base

Strawberry Cake Mix – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their vibrant color and flavor.
Butter (8 tablespoons, melted) – Adds a rich, moist texture; swap for vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Large Egg – Essential for binding the ingredients together; no substitutes are recommended for best results.
Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Keeps the cookies extra soft and chewy, making each bite a delight.

For the Center

Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (30, unwrapped) – The dreamy chocolate-filled center that elevates each cookie’s joy; feel free to use other similar candies if desired.

Optional Topping

Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar – A light dusting adds sweetness and enhances the cookies’ appearance.

How to Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until smooth. This simple start sets the foundation for your delightful cookies!
Add Cream Cheese: Mix in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated and the dough is thick and creamy. This step ensures your cookies will have that delightful texture.
Chill Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is key to keeping your cookies thick and preventing them from spreading while baking.
Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation will have you ready to bake!
Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. For an extra touch, roll the balls in sugar before placing them on the baking sheet.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set while the centers remain soft. Watch closely; you’ll want that perfect balance!
Add Chocolate Kisses: Once out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. This creates that iconic chocolate center.
Cool Down: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack until they are completely cooled. This final step lets the chocolate set perfectly!

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked Strawberry Kiss Cookies (without sugar dusting) for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove the cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes if you prefer them warm.

Dough Storage: If you have leftover dough, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Chilling the dough overnight helps to intensify the flavors before baking.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies by exploring various substitutions and twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Vanilla Twist: Swap strawberry cake mix for vanilla to create a delightful new flavor; add a splash of almond extract for extra pizzazz.
Chocolate Lovers: Substitute Hershey’s Kisses with dark chocolate or white chocolate for a rich, decadent variation that will satisfy every chocolate craving.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts to the dough for a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture.
Berry Blast: Mix in ½ cup of dried strawberries or raspberries into the dough for an added fruity punch, perfect for those who adore berry flavors.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the dough for an extra burst of chocolate in every bite, enhancing the cookie’s overall indulgence.
Spiced Touch: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a unique, warm flavor that brings an unexpected twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix as a base to make these delightful cookies accessible for everyone.
Creamy Center: Instead of chocolate kisses, use peanut butter cups or caramel-filled chocolates for a gooey, unexpected center that pairs perfectly with the strawberry flavor.

Each variation offers a fresh take on the classic Strawberry Kiss Cookies, allowing you to savor and share unique experiences with each delightful batch!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Chill Is Key: Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading. This keeps your Strawberry Kiss Cookies thick and perfect.
Watch Your Bake Time: Avoid overbaking by keeping a close eye on the cookies. They should be set at the edges but soft in the center for the best texture.
Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor of the dough, making your strawberry cookies even more delightful.
Easy Rolling: If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands or chill it a bit longer, which will make rolling everything into balls much easier.
Try Different Centers: Experiment with different chocolate-filled candies for the center. White chocolate or caramel-filled varieties can add a fun twist to your Strawberry Kiss Cookies!

What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

Create a delightful spread that pairs beautifully with these charming cookies.

Fresh Strawberries: The perfect complement, fresh strawberries enhance the fruity flavor, adding a refreshing touch and a pop of color to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
Chocolate Milk: Indulge in nostalgia with a glass of chocolate milk. The rich, chocolaty drink enhances the cookie’s chocolate center, making each bite even more delicious.
Lemonade: A zesty lemonade offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of strawberry cookies. Its bright flavor brightens up any gathering.
Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffee or herbal tea makes for a lovely pairing. The warmth of the drink complements the softness of the cookies while adding a cozy touch.
Cheesecake Bites: For an indulgent treat, tiny cheesecake bites will delight your guests. Their creamy, tangy taste pairs surprisingly well with the sweet strawberry flavor.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with mixed berries and citrus complements the cookies perfectly, making your dessert options vibrant and fresh.

These pairings will elevate your Strawberry Kiss Cookies into an unforgettable treat that everyone will adore!

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberry cake mix should I use?
I recommend using a quality strawberry cake mix to ensure the best flavor and vibrant color in your cookies. Look for one without artificial colors if you prefer a more natural option.

How long can I store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They will maintain their lovely texture and sweetness, but trust me, they won’t last that long!

Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies (without sugar dusting) for up to 3 months. Ensure they are in a single layer in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky to roll?
If you find your dough is too sticky, simply chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes. This will not only make it easier to roll into balls, but it also enhances the flavor!

Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies safe for pets?
While the cookies are vegetarian-friendly, they are not suitable for pets. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so always keep the cookies out of their reach.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
To avoid spreading, ensure that you chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking. Also, make sure the oven is preheated correctly and that the baking sheets are lined with parchment paper. If you follow these steps, your Strawberry Kiss Cookies will turn out thick and delightful!