With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the kitchen is buzzing with excitement! Enter my irresistible Strawberry Kiss Cookies—a delightful treat that perfectly marries the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies with the fruity charm of Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses. Imagine the joy as you pull these soft, sparkling cookies from the oven, ready to share with loved ones or bring to that special gathering. What’s more, they’re not only easy to whip up but also a heartwarming gesture for your friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a romantic evening or simply indulging in a ‘just because’ moment, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression. Are you ready to create a sweet masterpiece in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure together!

Why are Strawberry Kiss Cookies irresistible?

Softness: These cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Flavor Explosion: Topped with Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses, they deliver a delightful fruity twist.
Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all levels, you can whip them up without any hassle.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap the Kisses for other flavors, like mint or caramel, to suit your taste!
Perfect for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a cute box for a charming gift, just like my Chocolate Chip Cookies. You’ll earn extra brownie points with friends and family!

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these delightful cookies!

For the Cookie Base

Funfetti Sugar Cookie Mix – This is your flavor foundation; feel free to substitute with a regular sugar cookie mix or even strawberry cake mix if you like.
Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Adds richness and moisture, keeping the cookies soft; opt for full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
Large Egg (1) – This ingredient binds everything together and helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s at room temperature for smoother mixing.

For the Coating

Pink or White Sanding Sugar (½ cup) – Provides a delightful sugary crunch on the outside; can be swapped for non-pareils or crushed freeze-dried strawberries.

For the Topping

Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses (18) – The star of the show, these Kisses give a burst of sweetness; feel free to use any other variety of Kisses to switch up the flavor.

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies will not only please your sweet tooth but also warm your heart, making them perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This preparation ensures a smooth baking process and keeps your Strawberry Kiss Cookies from becoming a sticky situation.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Funfetti sugar cookie mix, softened cream cheese, and the large egg. Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until a soft, cohesive dough forms, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky, ready for the next step.

Step 3: Chill the Dough if Necessary
If you find the dough too sticky to handle comfortably, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to scoop and roll into balls, which is essential for shaping your Strawberry Kiss Cookies perfectly.

Step 4: Roll in Sanding Sugar
Pour the pink or white sanding sugar into a shallow bowl. Using a cookie scoop (about 1½ tablespoons), take small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Once formed, gently roll each ball in the sanding sugar, coating it evenly for a sparkling finish.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced approximately 1½ inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread beautifully while baking without touching each other, giving each Strawberry Kiss Cookie the room it needs to flourish.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8–12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should be set and lightly golden, while the centers will remain slightly soft and puffy. This visual cue is key to achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 7: Press the Kisses
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 3–5 minutes. Then, gently press a Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kiss into the center of each slightly cooled cookie. This touch adds a delightful burst of flavor right where it counts.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After pressing the Kisses in, you can either let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet or serve them warm for a gooey delight. Whichever way you choose, these Strawberry Kiss Cookies are sure to be a hit, perfect for enjoying or sharing during special moments!

What to Serve with Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Imagine a charming spread perfect for sharing, celebrating love, and indulging sweet cravings, all centered around the delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of cocoa pairs beautifully with the fruity sweetness, bringing extra comfort on chilly days.
Pink Lemonade: The tartness of pink lemonade complements the cookies’ sweetness, creating a refreshing balance for your taste buds.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream enhances the cookie experience and softens the Kisses, creating a decadent dessert.
Berry Fruit Salad: Fresh berries add a light, juicy contrast, enhancing the fruitiness while introducing vibrant colors to your dessert table.
Whipped Cream Topping: A fluffy layer of whipped cream adds richness to the cookies, making each bite feel indulgent.
Sparkling Rosé: Elevate your dessert experience with a glass of bubbly rosé, its subtle sweetness enhancing the overall flavors.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Double down on berry love by serving chocolate-covered strawberries alongside your cookies; it’s a delightful pairing for any occasion!
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of almond biscotti offers a nice contrast while complementing the strawberry flavor in your cookies.
Strawberry Shortcake: This classic dessert mirrors the flavors of your cookies, creating a delightful harmony that invites seconds.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer chilled cookies, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Strawberry Kiss Cookies for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy their delightful texture once again.

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these delightful Strawberry Kiss Cookies! Each tweak can bring a new twist to their irresistible charm.

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative to keep these cookies dairy-free and just as creamy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix in place of the Funfetti sugar cookie mix for a celiac-friendly treat.
Flavor Swap: Try using caramel or cookies and cream Kisses for a new flavor experience that still delivers sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that will melt your heart.
Citrus Zing: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus twist that complements the fruity Kisses beautifully.
Textural Twist: Mix in crushed nuts or finely chopped dried strawberries for added texture and flavor in each bite.
Seasonal Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for warmth, especially delightful during the fall season.
Fruity Fun: Play around with flavored Kisses such as raspberry or mint, and pair them with some of my favorite treats like Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a charming dessert platter.

Every variation allows you to tailor the recipe to your taste, ensuring each batch is unique and loved!

Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smoother dough. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and texture.
Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, don’t skip chilling it. This will make it easier to handle and form into perfect cookie balls.
Pressing Technique: For a melted center, press the Kisses into the cookies while they’re still warm. For a firmer texture, let them cool slightly before adding the chocolate.
Spacing Smartly: Maintain a distance of at least 1½ inches between cookie balls on the baking sheet to prevent them from merging while baking.
Storage Savvy: Keep your Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container to preserve their softness, and consider freezing them if you’d like to make them ahead!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making them perfect for busy bakers! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which helps to enhance the flavors and maintain that delightful softness. Simply mix the Funfetti sugar cookie mix, cream cheese, and egg, then chill the dough. You can also roll the cookie balls in sanding sugar beforehand; just store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and press the kisses into the cookies right after baking them for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while still treating your loved ones to homemade goodness!

Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for my recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red and have a sweet aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or dull coloring, as these may be overripe. If you’re using any fresh strawberries as a garnish or alternative, ensure they’re firm yet slightly yielding to the touch for optimal flavor.

What’s the best way to store Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
I recommend keeping your Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to retain their softness. If you have leftover cookies, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to place them in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Strawberry Kiss Cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No need to worry! If you find that the dough is too sticky to handle, just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls ready for coating in sanding sugar.

Are Strawberry Kiss Cookies safe for my pets?
Very! While Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, it’s crucial to keep them away from pets. Especially regarding chocolate—a main ingredient in Hershey’s Kisses—chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. It’s best to stick to treats specifically designed for your furry friends!

Can I replace the Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses with another variety?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the Hershey’s Strawberry Kisses for any of your favorite flavors, like caramel or cookies and cream. This flexibility not only adds variety but makes these cookies even more fun and personalized for your gatherings.