There's nothing more delightful than the combination of strawberries and cookies, and Strawberry Kiss Cookies deliver this in the most charming way. These soft, chewy cookies are bursting with strawberry flavor and topped with a sweet chocolate kiss for the perfect bite-sized treat.

I first made these cookies as a Valentine's Day surprise, and they were an instant hit. With their pretty pink hue and irresistible flavor, they're perfect for celebrations or just a little indulgence. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these adorable treats! Strawberry Kiss Cookies are easy to make, fun to share, and packed with flavor.

First, they’re a visual delight. The vibrant pink cookies topped with a chocolate kiss make them almost too pretty to eat. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion, they’re sure to stand out on any dessert table.

Second, they’re incredibly simple to whip up. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including a shortcut of strawberry cake mix, these cookies come together in no time. They’re a lifesaver when you need a quick dessert.

The combination of flavors is another reason to adore these cookies. The sweet and fruity strawberry base pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy chocolate kiss on top. Every bite feels like a tiny celebration.

Finally, these cookies are wonderfully versatile. You can switch up the flavors, use different toppings, or even experiment with festive sprinkles to customize them for any event.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these cookies lies in a few carefully chosen ingredients that balance simplicity with flavor.

Strawberry Cake Mix: This is the base of the recipe and where most of the strawberry flavor comes from. Using cake mix simplifies the process while still delivering great taste.
Eggs and Vegetable Oil: These provide structure and moisture to the dough. The oil keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
Powdered Sugar: A quick roll in powdered sugar before baking gives the cookies a slightly crisp exterior and adds an elegant finishing touch.
Hershey’s Kisses: The crowning jewel of each cookie, these classic chocolates add the perfect touch of indulgence. You can experiment with flavors like dark chocolate or white chocolate kisses for variety.

No special equipment is required for this recipe. A mixing bowl, spatula, and baking sheet are all you’ll need.

How To Make This Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Making these cookies is as simple as it is fun. Follow these steps to create the perfect batch.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until the dough is smooth and no lumps remain. It will be slightly sticky but manageable.

Scoop out small portions of dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls. For a polished look, roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cookies are puffed and just set. Be careful not to overbake, as this can make the cookies dry.

While the cookies bake, unwrap your Hershey’s Kisses and set them aside. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each one. The residual heat will slightly melt the base of the kiss, helping it stick to the cookie.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are easy to store, making them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over several days.

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the kisses from smudging.
Refrigeration: If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the firmness of the chocolate kisses.
Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, simply leave the cookies at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften the chocolate.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, offering plenty of opportunities for creativity.

Flavor Twist: Swap the strawberry cake mix for another flavor, like chocolate or lemon, to create a completely different cookie.
Different Toppings: Instead of chocolate kisses, try topping the cookies with mini marshmallows, a dollop of cream cheese frosting, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.
Add Sprinkles: Roll the dough balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking to add a festive touch for holidays or special events.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix to make these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Extra Mix-Ins: Add white chocolate chips or freeze-dried strawberry pieces to the dough for extra bursts of flavor and texture.

With so many ways to customize them, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Why not try them today and spread a little sweetness?