Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
For Finishing
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
- 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, and beat until thoroughly combined. Stir in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add 1-2 additional tablespoons of flour.
- Shape & Chill the Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form smooth balls. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight to prevent spreading during baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not press an indentation before baking to avoid excess spreading. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until edges appear set and slightly firm, though centers may still look soft.
- Add the Chocolate Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. While still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie; the residual heat will secure the candy without melting it excessively.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool fully, allowing the chocolate kisses to set properly.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: To avoid powdered sugar on the chocolate, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before pressing in the chocolate kisses if preferred; otherwise dust after cooling for a decorative touch.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading and ensure the cookies maintain their shape.
- If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour a tablespoon at a time.
- Do not make indents in the dough before baking; this causes the cookies to spread too much.
- Allow cookies to cool fully on a wire rack for best texture and chocolate setting.
- Optionally, almond extract enhances flavor but can be omitted for a simpler vanilla-strawberry taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American