There's nothing quite like the sweet aroma of Strawberry Kiss Cookies baking in the oven to bring a smile to your face. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies combine the fruity essence of strawberries with a rich, chocolatey Hershey’s Kiss at the center. They're a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make any day feel special.

I first discovered these cookies while planning for a Valentine’s Day party. Their adorable pink hue and the touch of chocolate make them an instant crowd-pleaser, and they’ve quickly become a family favorite for every celebration. Let’s dive into why these cookies deserve a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You'll Love These Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Get ready to fall head over heels for these irresistible cookies! Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because, Strawberry Kiss Cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.

First off, these cookies are simple and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under an hour, making them a go-to option for last-minute dessert needs.

Their playful pink color adds a festive touch that’s perfect for themed events or as a cheerful treat on a dreary day. You can even customize the color by adjusting the amount of food coloring.

The combination of strawberry flavor and chocolate is pure perfection. The softness of the cookie contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich Hershey’s Kiss, creating a bite-sized treat that’s impossible to resist.

Finally, this recipe is kid-friendly and customizable. From rolling the dough in sugar to placing the kisses, it’s an activity the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Strawberry Kiss Cookies lies in their simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds to the delightful flavor and texture.

Strawberry Cake Mix: The base of the cookies, providing the vibrant color and sweet strawberry flavor. Using a boxed cake mix saves time and ensures consistent results every time.
Cream Cheese: This secret ingredient keeps the cookies soft and slightly tangy, balancing the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened to blend smoothly into the dough.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender texture. Use room-temperature butter for the best mixing results.
Powdered Sugar: Perfect for rolling the dough, giving the cookies a lightly crisp exterior that melts in your mouth.
Hershey’s Kisses: The crowning jewel of these cookies! Opt for classic milk chocolate kisses or experiment with seasonal varieties like white chocolate or dark chocolate.

Special equipment: A cookie scoop is handy for creating evenly-sized cookies, and a cooling rack helps them set without becoming soggy.

How To Make These Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Making Strawberry Kiss Cookies is as easy as 1-2-3. Let me guide you through the steps to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unwrap your Hershey’s Kisses and set them aside – you’ll need them ready to go as soon as the cookies come out of the oven!
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine one box of strawberry cake mix, 4 oz of softened cream cheese, and ½ cup of softened butter. Mix until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
Form the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat it evenly, then place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake and Add the Kisses
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. As soon as you remove them from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss gently into the center of each cookie. The residual heat will slightly melt the base of the chocolate, helping it adhere.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and prevents cracking.

These cookies are ready to enjoy as soon as they’ve cooled, but they also store beautifully for later indulgence!

Storage Options

One of the best things about these cookies is their versatility in storage. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a sheet of wax paper between layers to prevent the kisses from sticking.
Refrigerator: For a slightly longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.

Variations and Substitutions

These cookies are endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes and occasions. Here are some fun ways to customize them:

Flavor Swap: Try using a different cake mix, like lemon or funfetti, for a new twist.
Color Customization: Add a drop or two of gel food coloring to enhance or change the hue – think red for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with various Hershey’s Kiss flavors, like caramel-filled, peppermint, or hugs.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
Add Sprinkles: Roll the dough in colored sugar or sprinkles instead of powdered sugar for a festive look.

The sky’s the limit with these cookies, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Who knows – your new favorite version might be just an experiment away!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are a delightful treat that combines ease, charm, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and let’s get baking – your kitchen is about to smell amazing!