Description
Strawberry kiss cookies are soft, strawberry-flavored cookies topped with a rich chocolate Hershey’s Kiss. Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a homemade dessert. Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
– 1 box (15.25 oz.) strawberry cake mix (substitute gluten-free cake mix if needed)
– 8 tbsp melted butter (substitute plant-based butter for vegan diets)
– 1 large egg
– 4 oz softened cream cheese (substitute plant-based cream cheese for vegan diets)
For Garnish (Optional):
– Powdered sugar or pink granulated sugar
For Topping:
– 30 chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped, substitute caramel-filled chocolates, peanut butter cups, or white chocolate kisses for variety)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Add softened cream cheese and mix until thick and fully incorporated.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading and keep cookies thick.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Roll in powdered sugar or pink sugar if desired, or place plain on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Rest cookies for 1–2 minutes, then gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and cool completely before serving.
Notes
– Use high-quality cake mix: This ensures maximum flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.
– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for longer storage; thaw at room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving if possible.
– Customizations: Swap chocolate kisses with caramel-filled chocolates, peanut butter cups, or white chocolate kisses. Add sprinkles, chopped nuts, or edible glitter for added complexity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Festive Desserts
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: ~120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg