Strawberry Kiss Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun, festive dessert that’s as easy to make as it is eye-catching, strawberry kiss cookies are the perfect choice. These soft and chewy cookies are made with a simple strawberry cake mix base, giving them their vibrant pink color and rich strawberry flavor. Rolled in sugar for extra sparkle and topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss, they’re ideal for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or any time you want to brighten up a dessert table.

Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing treats for a cookie exchange, these cookies will quickly become a go-to favorite. With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Kiss Cookies

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with strawberry kiss cookies:

• Quick and simple to make – Uses cake mix for a shortcut.
• Festive and fun – Bright pink color makes them ideal for holidays or themed events.
• Kid-friendly – Easy enough for children to help roll and decorate.
• Versatile – Can be made with different flavors of Hershey’s Kisses for creative variations.

These cookies are not just beautiful—they’re also irresistibly delicious. The soft texture, enhanced by chilling the dough, pairs perfectly with the smooth chocolate center.

Tools and Preparation

To make these cookies, you won’t need any fancy equipment. Just a few basic tools will help ensure success every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Cookie scoop (#30 recommended)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
• Cooling rack allows cookies to cool without becoming soggy.

Proper preparation makes a big difference. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately and keep Hershey Kisses unwrapped and ready before baking begins.

Preparation Tips

• Chill the dough for at least one hour. This step helps control spreading and maintains the cookies’ thick, chewy texture.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing.
• Keep the remaining dough in the fridge between batches.
• Gently press the Kiss into the center of the cookie immediately after baking, while cookies are still soft.

Ingredients

Here’s a clear list of what you’ll need:

• 1 box strawberry cake mix
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Granulated sugar, for rolling
• Hershey Kisses, unwrapped

Optional Variations

• Swap the milk for heavy cream for richer texture.
• Use different Hershey’s Kisses: dark chocolate, white chocolate, or Hugs.
• Add a drop of strawberry extract for a stronger flavor punch.

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of strawberry kiss cookies.

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and eggs until fully combined.
2. Add the strawberry cake mix and flour. Stir to combine.
3. Add the milk and mix until a soft, even dough forms.

2. Shape and Chill

1. Use a #30 cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons) to portion dough.
2. Roll each portion into a ball.
3. Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar to coat them fully.
4. Place on a tray, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

3. Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Place chilled dough balls onto the baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are set and tops have a slight crackle.

4. Add the Hershey Kisses

1. Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie.
2. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet to prevent the chocolate from melting or becoming misshapen.

Pro Tip

Chilling the dough is not optional—it’s essential for preventing spreading and achieving the best cookie texture. If you’re short on time, place the tray in the freezer for 30 minutes instead.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies

These cookies are more than just adorable. Their vibrant color and soft texture make them ideal for a variety of presentations. Here are some creative and practical ways to serve strawberry kiss cookies:

1. Holiday Dessert Trays

Arrange the cookies with other red and pink treats like raspberry truffles or red velvet brownies for a cohesive Valentine’s Day or holiday platter.

2. Cookie Exchanges

Because they hold their shape well and remain fresh for several days, strawberry kiss cookies are an excellent choice for cookie swaps.

3. Party Favors

Wrap a few cookies in a clear treat bag tied with a ribbon. These make thoughtful and easy party favors for birthdays, bridal showers, or baby showers.

4. Afternoon Tea or Coffee Break

Serve them alongside tea or coffee for a sweet, fruity bite that complements warm beverages beautifully.

5. Kid-Friendly Dessert Stations

The bright pink color and candy center make these cookies a hit with kids. Set them out on a tiered dessert stand for added flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will help you get the best results every time you bake strawberry kiss cookies.

1. Skipping the Chill Time

Why it matters:
Chilling the dough prevents cookies from spreading too much in the oven. If you skip this step, the cookies may become too flat and lose their chewy texture.

Fix:
Always chill the dough for at least one hour. If in a rush, use the freezer for 30 minutes.

2. Overbaking the Cookies

Why it matters:
Overbaking can result in dry, crumbly cookies. These cookies are meant to be soft and chewy.

Fix:
Take them out when the edges are just set and the tops are slightly crackled. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Pressing the Kisses Too Late or Too Hard

Why it matters:
If you wait too long to press in the Hershey Kisses, the tops may harden, causing the candy to crack the cookie. Pressing too hard can also cause the cookie to collapse.

Fix:
Insert the Kisses immediately after removing the cookies from the oven. Press gently—just enough to secure the candy.

4. Using an Uncoated Baking Sheet

Why it matters:
Cookies can stick or brown unevenly if baked directly on an unlined sheet.

Fix:
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

5. Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Why it matters:
Too much flour or not enough oil can throw off the dough texture, making it too dry or too wet.

Fix:
Use proper measuring tools and follow the ingredient list closely.

Side Dish Recommendations

While strawberry kiss cookies are typically served on their own, they pair well with a variety of light and sweet treats. These combinations create an appealing dessert spread:

1. White Chocolate Raspberry Bark

The tartness of raspberries and creaminess of white chocolate contrast perfectly with the fruity flavor of the cookies.

2. Strawberry Milkshake

Double down on the strawberry flavor with a chilled milkshake. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the chewy cookies.

3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

A romantic favorite that complements the chocolate center of the cookies.

4. Mini Cheesecake Bites

The tangy cream cheese base offers a rich contrast to the sweet cookies.

5. Whipped Cream Fruit Cups

Light and airy, these add freshness to your dessert table without overpowering the cookies.

6. Sugar-Dusted Donuts

A classic pairing that adds a bit of variety in texture and form.

7. Pink Lemonade

A light beverage that enhances the fruity profile of strawberry kiss cookies without overwhelming it.

8. Strawberry Parfaits

Layered with yogurt and granola, this is a healthier companion that keeps with the strawberry theme.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly, a few professional baking strategies can make your cookies stand out.

Use Cold Hershey Kisses

Store your Hershey Kisses in the refrigerator before baking. Cold candy holds its shape better when placed on warm cookies, reducing the chance of melting.

Chill Longer for Thicker Cookies

If you prefer thick, bakery-style cookies, chill the dough for up to 2 hours instead of just one. A longer chill time creates denser, chewier cookies with a more defined structure.

Try Different Kisses for Flavor Variety

This recipe works well with a variety of Hershey’s Kiss flavors. Some great options include:

• White chocolate
• Dark chocolate
• Hershey’s Hugs
• Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses (limited edition)

Each option adds a new twist to the classic strawberry kiss cookies.

Enhance Flavor with Strawberry Extract

For an even stronger strawberry flavor, add ½ teaspoon of strawberry extract to the dough. It intensifies the taste without altering the texture.

Add Texture with Freeze-Dried Strawberries

Fold crushed freeze-dried strawberries into the dough before chilling for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Once baked, storing strawberry kiss cookies properly is essential to preserve their soft texture and fresh taste.

Room Temperature Storage

• Place cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Keep away from heat or direct sunlight to prevent the Kisses from softening or melting.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls after rolling in sugar. Place them on a tray to flash-freeze, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Freeze baked cookies by placing them in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks.

Reheating Tips

• Strawberry kiss cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• Do not microwave baked cookies with Hershey Kisses, as the chocolate can melt unevenly.
• If desired, warm briefly in the oven at 275°F for 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye on the Kisses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes, this recipe works well with other flavors like lemon, vanilla, or chocolate. However, the strawberry flavor pairs best with the chocolate Kiss center.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling is crucial. It helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Yes, use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten free. The texture may vary slightly.

Can I use mini Hershey Kisses?

Mini Kisses are not recommended as they may melt too quickly or not hold shape well in warm cookies.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

They stay fresh for 3 to 5 days when stored properly. For longer storage, freezing is your best option.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough or baked cookies for later use.

Conclusion

Strawberry kiss cookies combine nostalgic charm with bold flavor, making them a go-to treat for holidays, celebrations, and everyday indulgence. Their vibrant pink hue, chewy texture, and rich chocolate center make them both visually striking and irresistibly tasty.

With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a cookie that looks like it came from a bakery. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with your own twist, this is one dessert that consistently impresses.

These cookies are more than just a pretty treat—they’re a celebration of simplicity and sweetness. Keep this recipe bookmarked and share it with anyone who loves easy, eye-catching desserts.