Get ready to fall in love with these Strawberry Kiss Cookies, a vibrant and fruity twist on the classic peanut butter blossom. These eye-catching treats feature a soft, chewy strawberry sugar cookie base rolled in sparkling pink sanding sugar and topped with an iconic Hershey’s Kiss. Their bright pink color and delightful berry flavor make them an absolute showstopper for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or any festive celebration.
What makes this recipe a true favorite is its simplicity and incredible texture. By using a clever shortcut with strawberry cake mix and cream cheese, you can whip up a batch of professional-looking cookies in no time. The cream cheese ensures every bite is tender and melt-in-your-mouth soft, while the chocolate center provides the perfect decadent finish. Whether you are a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, these sweet and simple cookies are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
Key Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup pink sanding sugar
- 36-48 Hershey Kisses, unwrapped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a soft dough begins to form.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and beat until well incorporated and smooth.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 60 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the chilled dough into 1-tablespoon sized balls and roll each ball in the pink sanding sugar until evenly coated.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart, and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the hot pan for 2 to 3 minutes to firm up.
- Gently press one Hershey Kiss into the center of each warm cookie, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the perfect addition to any festive gathering, from Valentine’s Day parties to spring baby showers. The combination of the soft, chewy strawberry cake mix base and the iconic chocolate center creates a nostalgic treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With their vibrant pink color and shimmering sugar coating, they are sure to be the star of your dessert platter.
Best of all, this recipe is incredibly simple to whip up using just a few pantry staples, making it a great choice for busy bakers or a fun afternoon project with the kids. Whether you stick with the classic milk chocolate kiss or experiment with different flavored candies, these cookies are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Store them in an airtight container to keep them tender, and enjoy a sweet taste of strawberry and chocolate in every bite.