Valentine’s Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Strawberry Kiss Cookies

Strawberry Kiss Cookies are the perfect way to bring a touch of sweetness and charm to any occasion. These delightful treats feature a soft, buttery base infused with the irresistible flavor of strawberries and crowned with a chocolate kiss. Perfect for a holiday gathering or just a sweet indulgence, these cookies are sure to win hearts.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup strawberry jam or strawberry puree
• 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
• Red or pink sanding sugar (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

4. 

   Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stir in the strawberry jam or puree until fully incorporated.

5. Shape Cookies: Roll tablespoons of dough into balls. If desired, roll each ball in red or pink sanding sugar for a festive touch.

6. 

   Bake: Place the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Add Chocolate Kisses: Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie as they come out of the oven. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritious Value and Pairing Suggestions

Strawberry Kiss Cookies, while indulgent, offer occasional boosts of energy from simple carbohydrates. The buttery texture provides essential fats, while strawberries bring a hint of vitamin C and antioxidants. As these cookies are a treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

To complement their sweetness, consider pairing Strawberry Kiss Cookies with a fresh fruit salad featuring strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, enhancing the meal's nutritional profile. For a refreshing beverage, opt for a cool glass of iced tea, fresh lemonade, or a warm cup of chamomile tea to balance the sweetness of the cookies. These combinations make for a delightful afternoon tea or an elegant dessert course.