Name: Irresistible Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a Chocolate Surprise
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix; 1/2 cup Butter (Adds richness and moisture; ensure it's melted and slightly cooled for optimal mixing.); 1 large Egg (Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive dough.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Contributes to a soft, thick texture; there’s no direct substitute, as alternatives may alter the final result.); 24 pieces Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses; 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I reached for the last cookie on the plate, I was greeted by its cheerful pink hue and the promise of a chocolate surprise nestled inside. These Strawberry Kiss Cookies have swiftly become my go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. Made with simple ingredients like strawberry cake mix and cream cheese, not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but the melt-in-your-mouth texture is truly irresistible. Perfect for celebrations or just a cozy snack at home, these cookies bring joy not only to the taste buds but also to the heart. Have you ever tasted a cookie that warms your soul like this? Let’s dive into this fun, delicious recipe together!

Why Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies Irresistible?

Vibrant Color: Each cookie boasts a cheerful pink hue that instantly brightens any dessert table.
Sweet Surprise: The hidden chocolate kiss at the center adds a delightful richness, making every bite uniquely satisfying.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to switch up the cake mix flavor—think lemon or vanilla for a fun twist! For even more cookie inspiration, check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies that are equally delicious.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress!

Strawberry Kiss Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides a delightful strawberry flavor and vibrant color; avoid using fresh strawberries as they can make the dough runny.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s melted and slightly cooled for optimal mixing.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive dough.
Cream Cheese – Contributes to a soft, thick texture; there’s no direct substitute, as alternatives may alter the final result.

For the Center

Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – These tasty chocolates serve as a sweet surprise in each cookie; be sure to have them unwrapped for efficiency.

Optional Sugar Coating

Powdered Sugar or Pink Granulated Sugar – Use for rolling the dough balls prior to baking for a touch of sweetness and extra visual appeal.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix with the melted butter and the egg. Use a spatula to blend the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps and the batter has a vibrant pink hue.

Step 2: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Next, add the softened cream cheese to the dough mixture. Blend it in using the spatula or an electric mixer on medium speed until fully incorporated, ensuring a thick, creamy texture. This should take about 3-4 minutes, and the dough will become smooth and luxurious, perfect for your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.

Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This chilling step is crucial as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. While waiting, you can take a moment to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheets
Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to prepare your baking sheets. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while you line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Strawberry Kiss Cookies bake evenly and release easily once done, creating a delightful treat for you and your family.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop the chilled dough into tablespoon-sized balls, roughly 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. If you’d like, roll each ball in powdered sugar or pink granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. This step not only adds flavor but also enhances the appeal of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the centers remain slightly soft—this perfect balance will yield that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be careful not to overbake them, as you want a chewy center that complements the chocolate surprise.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Once the cookies are out of the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 1-2 minutes. As they cool, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Don’t worry if they crack slightly; this is perfectly normal and adds to their character!

Step 8: Cool Completely
Finally, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain their delightful texture. After they cool, you can serve these irresistible Strawberry Kiss Cookies, perfect for any occasion with that unexpected chocolate delight at the heart of each bite.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Chill Dough Properly: Ensuring the dough is well-chilled for at least 1 hour is essential to prevent spreading during baking, achieving that perfect cookie shape.
Avoid Runny Dough: Don’t substitute the strawberry cake mix with fresh strawberries, as they release moisture and can make the dough too runny.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them when the edges are set and the centers are soft results in a soft, chewy texture for your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.
Store for Freshness: To maintain the cookies’ delightful freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Roll in Sugar: For added visual appeal and sweetness, consider rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar or pink granulated sugar before baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. To do this, simply mix the ingredients as instructed and then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and bake as directed. Just remember to press a chocolate kiss into the center right after they come out of the oven for that warm, gooey center. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy delicious Strawberry Kiss Cookies with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies?

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your sweet experience to new heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate kiss and fruity cookie.
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh strawberries and blueberries adds a refreshing, tart balance to the sweet cookies, enhancing their berry flavor.
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in the ultimate treat! The thick, creamy texture complements the cookies while the chocolate flavor echoes the surprise in the center.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: The bright citrus notes in lemonade or refreshing iced tea offer a vibrant, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for summer gatherings.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For double the chocolatey goodness, serve these alongside some decadent chocolate-covered strawberries—perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat to share!
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Whip up a light, fluffy cream cheese frosting for dipping, adding a luscious element that marries beautifully with the cookies and enhances their moist texture.
Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad featuring melons, kiwi, and citrus brings a lightness to balance the richness of the cookies, making for a refreshing dessert spread.
Sparkling Water with Mint: This refreshing drink keeps things light and bubbly, offering a palate cleanser that refreshes you between bites of these sweet, tender cookies.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment and make these Strawberry Kiss Cookies truly your own!

Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the cookie’s flavor profile.
Different Cake Mix: Swap the strawberry cake mix for lemon or vanilla for a fresh twist; the chocolate kiss will still shine!
Cream Cheese Alternative: Use mascarpone cheese for a lighter texture, but keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Nutty Surprise: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to add a delightful crunch and depth.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate a half-cup of mini chocolate chips or a handful of dried strawberries for an exciting texture change.
Zesty Touch: Add the zest of half a lemon to brighten the flavor, complementing the sweetness beautifully.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a plant-based version.
Strawberry Topping: Instead of a chocolate kiss, top each cookie with a slice of fresh strawberry for a fun and fruity twist.

By making these simple adjustments, you can create unique variations of the original recipe that cater to different tastes and occasions. And if you’re in the mood for other delightful cookies, check out my Tiramisu Cookies Melt or try some Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a burst of springtime flavor!

Storage Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their fresh, soft texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-dusted cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying!
Reheating: To restore warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to gently melt the chocolate center of your Strawberry Kiss Cookies.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting a strawberry cake mix?
Absolutely! When picking a strawberry cake mix, check the expiration date to ensure freshness. Opt for a brand that lists real strawberry flavor prominently, and avoid any that have dark spots, indicating possible moisture damage.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
For best results, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you find them too soft after a day, placing them in the fridge can also help maintain their texture, lasting up to a week.

Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your un-dusted Strawberry Kiss Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy their melt-in-your-mouth goodness again.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it’s likely that the dough wasn’t chilled adequately. Make sure you chill the dough for at least an hour. Also, always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, as an overheated oven can lead to spreading.

Can my pets eat Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate can be toxic to animals, especially dogs. Always be cautious with leftovers around curious pets.

Are there any vegetarian options for these cookies?
Yes! The recipe is vegetarian as it uses no meat products. If you’re looking for vegan options, you can replace the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to maintain a similar texture.