Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s soft, sweet, and just a little bit magical, you’ve got to try this Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe. These little delights combine fluffy, cream cheese-infused dough with a surprise strawberry-flavored chocolate kiss right in the center. Honestly, they’re perfect for Valentine’s Day or any time you want to make someone smile — or treat yourself. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step to get these perfect every single time.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe is a great example of how simple base ingredients can come together for big flavor and fun texture. There’s a little bit of magic in using cream cheese with your sugar cookie mix — it seriously makes a difference in softness and richness. And the sanding sugar? Not just pretty — it adds a slight crunch and sparkle that makes these cookies shine.

• Funfetti sugar cookie mix: Adds colorful sprinkles and a reliable sugar cookie base, saving you from making everything from scratch.
• Cream cheese: Softens the dough for a tender bite and gives a subtle tang that balances sweetness.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough, giving it structure and moisture.
• Pink or white sanding sugar / non-pareils: Coats the cookies for extra visual appeal and adds a delicate crunch.
• Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kisses: The star of the show — strawberry-flavored chocolate centers that melt just right.

Make It Your Way

I love that the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe is so flexible. Sometimes I swap out sanding sugar colors depending on the occasion — bright red for Valentine’s, pastels for spring. You can also adapt it for dietary needs or even get a bit adventurous with different flavored kisses or cookie mixes.

• Variation: I once tried a lemon zest twist by adding a bit of finely grated lemon peel to the dough, which gave the cookies a fresh zing that paired surprisingly well with the strawberry center.
• Dietary modifications: For those avoiding dairy, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese alternatives, though the texture will shift slightly.
• Seasonal changes: Swap the strawberry kisses for peppermint or caramel ones during the holidays for festive flair.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper — trust me, it’ll save you from cookie stickiness and make cleanup a breeze. Having everything ready to go here makes the whole process smoother, especially when your dough is ready to roll.

Step 2: Mix the Magic Dough

In a large bowl, combine your Funfetti sugar cookie mix with softened cream cheese and one large egg. I like using room temperature cream cheese because it blends so much easier, yielding a silky dough. Mix until soft dough forms — not too sticky, but pliable. If it’s sticking to your hands, just pop it in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes — I’ve found this step helps the dough behave beautifully.

Step 3: Sugar-Coat and Shape the Dough

Pour your pink or white sanding sugar (or non-pareils if you prefer) into a shallow bowl. Using a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out dough balls. Roll each smoothly in the sugar until fully coated. I like how this adds just enough sparkle and crunch without overpowering the softness inside. Place your coated balls on the baking sheet about 1½ inches apart so they have room to spread.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 8 to 12 minutes. You’re aiming for edges that look set but centers that remain soft. It’s that softness that makes these cookies melt in your mouth. Don’t overbake — the strawberry kiss will seal the deal.

Step 5: Press in the Strawberry Kisses

Once the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool just 3 to 5 minutes before pressing a Hershey’s Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Kiss right into the center. I’ve learned that giving the cookies a little cooldown makes the kiss stay firm and prevent melting everywhere. But if you love a gooey, melted center (and I won’t judge), press the kiss immediately while the cookie’s hot!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet, or if you’re impatient like me, dig in warm. These cookies are a hug in cookie form — the combination of soft dough and strawberry chocolate center just hits all the right notes.

How to Serve Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to dust these cookies lightly with a bit of extra sanding sugar once they cool to give them an extra sparkle — it’s simple but adds a little festive vibe that guests always notice.

Side Dishes

They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk (classic, right?). If you want to go fancy, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small fresh fruit salad for a light balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a Valentine’s gathering, I arranged these cookies on a heart-shaped platter and tucked some fresh strawberries around them—it made the whole presentation pop and felt so special. You can also gift them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a DIY treat that’s sure to wow.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store my leftover Strawberry Kiss Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and delicious for about 3-4 days — if you notice they’re firming up, just pop one in the microwave for 10 seconds to get that fresh-baked feel back.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! I like to freeze the dough balls pre-baking so I can bake fresh batches whenever I want. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to the recipe. If you freeze baked cookies, keep them sealed tightly and thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheating is easy — just 10-15 seconds in the microwave maintains that soft texture and helps the strawberry kiss get a little melty again. Avoid overheating or the cookie can get dry quickly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Strawberry Kiss Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen — it’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug wrapped in sprinkles and chocolate. Whether you’re baking for your family, a party, or just because, these cookies bring smiles and a little wow-factor every time. I can’t wait for you to try them, and once you do, they’ll probably become one of your favorites too.

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