Strawberry Kiss Valentine Cookies are sweet, soft, and full of fun flavors that make any day feel special. These cookies have a tender strawberry base with a little surprise chocolate kiss right in the center, making every bite a perfect mix of fruity and chocolatey goodness.
I love making these cookies because they’re not only delicious but also bring a smile to everyone’s face, especially around Valentine’s Day. The combination of fresh-tasting strawberries and melty chocolate is a crowd-pleaser, and I find that sharing them with friends or loved ones makes the moment even sweeter.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these cookies is with a cup of warm tea or cold glass of milk. They’re great for gifting too—just pack them in a pretty box and watch how quickly they disappear! Plus, baking them always brings back cozy memories of holiday baking and spending time with my family in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberry Puree: This gives the cookies their fresh strawberry flavor and pink tint. If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen ones work just fine. Make sure to thaw and blend them well.
Butter: Using unsalted softened butter helps control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based butter substitute for similar texture and taste.
Candy Kisses: Strawberry or pink candy kisses are perfect here, but you can swap them with regular milk chocolate or white chocolate kisses for a different twist.
Food Coloring: This is optional. The strawberry puree gives some natural color, but a few drops of pink or red food coloring boost the Valentine’s vibe and make the cookies look extra festive.
How Do I Make Sure the Strawberry Kisses Don’t Melt Too Much?
The secret to keeping the candy kiss shape while still melting slightly is to add them right after baking:
- Bake the cookies until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Take the tray out of the oven and immediately press one candy kiss into each cookie’s center.
- Let the cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes so the candy melts just enough to stick well but doesn’t lose its shape.
This simple timing trick keeps the kisses looking neat and adds a soft, melty spot in each cookie without losing their pretty peak.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – great for even baking and fits nicely in most ovens.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll want at least two for wet and dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – helps cream butter and sugar quickly for light cookies.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – makes uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try white chocolate or milk chocolate kisses instead of strawberry for a classic sweet touch.
- Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a little crunch.
- Mix in dried cranberries or freeze-dried strawberries to boost the berry flavor.
- Stir in a teaspoon of almond extract in place of vanilla for a nutty twist that pairs well with strawberry.
How to Make Strawberry Kiss Valentine Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or thawed frozen strawberries, blended)
- Pink or red food coloring (optional, for enhanced color)
- About 24 strawberry or pink candy kisses (such as Hershey’s)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5 minutes to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. Total time is about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the cookies from sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt—then set this mixture aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
Use a large bowl and beat the softened butter with the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes and gives the cookies a nice texture.
3. Add Egg, Vanilla, and Strawberry:
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, add the strawberry puree and a few drops of pink or red food coloring if you want a bolder color, mixing until the dough looks pink and even.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir just until everything comes together—try not to overmix, or the cookies can turn out tough.
5. Shape and Bake the Cookies:
Drop spoonfuls or use a cookie scoop to place balls of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges look set but the centers are still soft.
6. Add the Candy Kisses and Cool:
Right after taking the cookies out of the oven, press one strawberry or pink candy kiss gently into the center of each cookie. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes so the kisses soften a bit but keep their shape, then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, arrange your Strawberry Kiss Valentine Cookies on a pretty plate. They’re perfect to share with loved ones or enjoy with a cup of tea or cold milk!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Puree?
Yes! Just thaw the frozen strawberries completely and blend them into a smooth puree before measuring. This works just as well as fresh strawberries and adds great flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Strawberry Candy Kisses?
If you can’t find strawberry or pink candy kisses, regular milk chocolate or white chocolate kisses make a tasty alternative. You can also chop up your favorite chocolate if needed.
How Should I Store These Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them (without the candy kisses) and add fresh kisses after thawing.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bring it back to room temperature slightly before scooping and baking for best results.