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Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Soft Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the kind of dessert that instantly feels festive and fun. Made with strawberry cake mix, cream cheese, and butter, these cookies bake up tender, thick, and perfectly pink. Each one is finished with a classic chocolate kiss pressed into the center, creating that signature cracked look everyone loves. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough for parties, gifting, or holiday dessert tables. Whether you’re planning Valentine’s Day treats or just craving a sweet, bakery-style cookie at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort—and guaranteed smiles.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Course: Appetizer, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Strawberry-flavored cake mix 15.25 oz – One box does all the heavy lifting with flavor, color, and lift.
  • Butter ½ cup / 8 tablespoons – Melted, then cooled slightly so it doesn’t scramble the egg.
  • 1 large egg – Holds everything together and adds richness.
  • Cream cheese 4 oz – Fully softened for a smooth, creamy dough that stays ultra-soft.
  • Chocolate kisses about 30 – Unwrapped and standing by.
  • Optional sugar coating – Powdered sugar for a snowy finish or pink sanding sugar for sparkle.

Method
 

1. Mix the Base

Grab a large bowl and stir together the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Once combined, blend in the softened cream cheese. The dough should look thick, creamy, and slightly sticky.

    2. Chill Time (Don’t Skip This!)

    Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 60 minutes. This step keeps the cookies thick and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

      3. Shape the Cookies

      Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the chilled dough into tablespoon-sized portions and roll into smooth balls.

      Optional: Roll each ball in powdered sugar or pink sugar now for extra flair.

        4. Bake Just Right

        Arrange cookies about 2 inches apart and bake for 8–10 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers stay soft and pale—overbaking is the enemy here.

          5. Add the Kisses

          Let cookies rest for 1–2 minutes after removing from the oven. Gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Expect some cracks—that classic look is part of the charm. Move cookies to a wire rack and cool completely.

            Notes

            Expert Tips & Fixes

            • Want thicker cookies? After rolling, chill the dough balls for 10 extra minutes before baking—especially helpful in warm kitchens.
            • Chocolate losing its shape? Let the cookies cool slightly longer before adding kisses.
            • Storage tip: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days. Thanks to the cream cheese, they stay wonderfully soft.
            • Picture-perfect finish: Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar again for that bakery-style look.

            FAQs (Rewritten)

            Why do my cookies spread too much?
             The dough is naturally soft because of the melted butter and cake mix. Insufficient chilling is usually the culprit. Chill longer if needed, especially in warm climates.
            Can I swap the cake mix for fresh strawberries or extract?
             Not recommended. Fresh strawberries add too much moisture, and extracts won’t replicate the structure. The cake mix gives these cookies their signature texture and flavor.
            How long do they last?
             Up to 4 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can also freeze baked cookies (skip the sugar coating) for up to 3 months.
            Can I prep the dough ahead?
             Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Overnight chilling actually improves structure and flavor.
            Should I add vanilla or almond extract?
             Totally optional. The cake mix already delivers strong flavor, but a teaspoon of vanilla or ½ teaspoon almond extract can add a gourmet twist.

            Final Thoughts 💕

            These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. They’re soft, playful, and packed with nostalgic charm—perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaking straight from the cooling rack (no judgment). Whether you’re baking for Valentine’s Day or just craving something pink and cozy, this recipe delivers every single time. Happy baking! 🍓💗