Strawberry Kiss Cookies for Valentine’s Day – Soft, Pink & Irresistible

Valentine’s Day has a gentle sweetness all its own. It’s a day filled with handwritten notes, shared smiles, and little treats that say “I care” without needing many words. In many kitchens, this season is marked by baking—simple recipes passed down, lovingly adapted, and made special with a festive touch. These Strawberry Kiss Cookies are inspired by that warm tradition, blending classic cookie comfort with a playful Valentine flair.

What makes these cookies so special is their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate strawberry flavor. The dough is tinted a lovely pink, making them instantly eye-catching, while the chocolate kiss pressed gently into the center adds both charm and richness. They’re nostalgic, cheerful, and perfect for sharing—whether tucked into a Valentine’s box, served at a party, or enjoyed quietly with a cup of tea.

These cookies are especially loved because they’re simple and joyful. No complicated techniques, no fancy tools—just wholesome ingredients, a little patience, and a lot of heart. They’re wonderful for baking with family, gifting to friends, or surprising someone special. One bite, and you’ll understand why these Strawberry Kiss Cookies have become a Valentine favorite in so many homes.

Ingredients 🍓💕

For the Cookies

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pink food coloring (gel preferred)

For Rolling & Topping

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar or pink sanding sugar
• 24 chocolate kisses, unwrapped (milk chocolate or strawberry-filled)

Step-by-Step Directions 👩‍🍳💗

1. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step gives the cookies their soft texture.
2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and strawberry extract until well combined and smooth.
3. Add a few drops of pink food coloring and mix until the dough reaches a soft, rosy pink. Adjust color as desired.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
6. Cover the dough and chill for 30–45 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into smooth balls.
9. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar or pink sanding sugar for a sparkling finish.
10. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
11. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft. They should not brown.
12. Remove cookies from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie.
13. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes & Traditional Tips 💌

• For extra strawberry flavor, use strawberry-filled chocolate kisses.
• If kisses soften too much, place cookies in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help them set.
• Gel food coloring gives the best pink color without thinning the dough.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them soft.
• These cookies are perfect for gifting—stack them in clear bags with ribbons for a sweet Valentine surprise. 🎀

Nutritional Information 🍪📊

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 10 minutes per batch
⏳ Total Time: 1 hour
⚡ Calories per serving: ~150
🍽️ Servings: 24 cookies

Approximate per cookie:

• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Sugar: 11 g

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!