Strawberry Kiss Soft Cookies (Printer-Friendly)

Soft strawberry-flavored cookies with a creamy chocolate kiss center and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
04 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
06 - 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1 tsp baking powder
08 - 1/4 tsp salt
09 - 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
10 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

→ Topping

11 - 24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes to incorporate air for tenderness.
02 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, beating until thoroughly combined. Stir in the strawberry gelatin powder until fully integrated.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and prevent clumping.
04 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft, pink dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, add up to 2 tablespoons of flour to achieve manageable consistency.
05 - Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into smooth balls. Arrange onto a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading during baking.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F and place chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced 2 inches apart. Bake for 11-13 minutes until edges are set and slightly firm.
07 - Remove cookies from oven and let rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. While still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie to create a melty surprise.
08 - Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing chocolate to set. Dust cookies with powdered sugar prior to serving for a delicate finish.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use room temperature butter and egg to ensure smooth mixing and softer texture. Avoid overmixing dough after adding flour to maintain tenderness. Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excess spreading.