Ingredients
Method
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cookie mix, softened cream cheese, and egg. Stir until everything comes together into a smooth, thick dough. The cream cheese makes the texture extra tender and gives the cookies a rich bite. If the dough feels too soft to handle, pop it into the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or up to an hour) to firm up.
2. Shape and Coat
Pour the sanding sugar into a shallow dish. Scoop out portions of dough and roll them gently between your hands to form balls. Roll each dough ball in the sugar until fully coated. Place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1½ inches apart so they have room to spread.
3. Bake and Finish with Kisses
Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 8–12 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers remain slightly soft. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then press a Strawberry Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow them to cool completely — or enjoy them warm if you love that soft, melty chocolate top.
Notes
Helpful Tips for Beautiful, Soft Kiss Cookies
Dealing with Sticky Dough
If the dough sticks while rolling, lightly coat your hands with sanding sugar. Chilling the dough longer will also make shaping much easier.Getting the Perfect Chocolate Texture
For defined, picture-perfect Kisses, wait a few minutes before pressing them into the cookies. Prefer a softer, melty center? Press the chocolates in right away while the cookies are hot. Adjust the timing based on the texture you love most.Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Refrigerated, they’ll stay fresh for about a week. To freeze, layer the fully cooled cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine at Valentine’s Day parties, classroom celebrations, or tucked inside gift tins. Serve alongside hot cocoa, milk, or strawberry lemonade for a festive touch. You can even swap the Strawberry Kisses with other seasonal flavors — peppermint for winter holidays or caramel for autumn gatherings.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different flavor of Kisses?Absolutely. Any Hershey’s Kiss variety works beautifully in this recipe. Do I have to chill the dough?
Not always. Chill only if the dough feels too sticky to roll comfortably. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Why are my cookies cracking too much?
Overbaking can dry them out. Remove them when the centers still look slightly soft.