Strawberry Kiss Cookies Holiday Cheer in Every Bite
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered if you could capture the essence of Christmas in a bite? Let me introduce you to these beautiful Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a proper dose of festive cheer.
These aren't just any holiday cookie recipes ; they're a mini celebration in every bite! Honestly, I've been making these for years, and they're always a hit.
Strawberry Dreams: A Taste of Christmas Joy
These Strawberry Christmas Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic thumbprint cookie variations . They're like a little taste of summer, but with a festive Christmas hug.
Think buttery shortbread cookie with jam center , exploding with strawberry flavor.
Originally, thumbprint cookies likely came from Scandinavia, evolving into different versions across the globe. Our take on the Christmas classic is moderately challenging and it takes around one hour and 45 minutes of your precious time.
This recipe yields about 24 cookies, perfect for sharing, or… not!
Why You'll Absolutely Adore Them
The highlight? Real strawberries! It makes the cookie shine as a Valentine Cookies For Kids , and the fresh strawberry jam filling is bursting with Vitamin C.
This makes them healthier, right? Perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges or as part of Christmas themed meals for kids .
And let's be real, who can resist a cookie that looks as good as it tastes? These are the Valentine's Strawberry Cookies that bring people together.
They're special because each bite is a burst of buttery goodness with a strawberry kiss. Plus, the almond extract cookies add a sophisticated touch to the festive baking ideas .
It's a shortbread style treat for all to enjoy.
Alright, let's get cracking on these Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a proper festive bake! These are perfect for Christmas, Valentines Strawberry Cookies , or any time you fancy a bit of sweetness.
Ready to roll? Let's talk ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks. Here's what you'll need for these Strawberry Kiss Cookies , designed to bring a smile to anyone's face. Don't worry, it's not rocket science.
Main Ingredients: Let’s get baking!
Dough Time . For the actual cookie dough, grab 1 cup (2 sticks) or 226g of softened unsalted butter. Softened, mind you, not melted.
A simple rule. Then you'll need ½ cup (100g) of granulated sugar and ¼ cup (50g) of powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting at the end.
Lovely! A teaspoon of vanilla extract and a ¼ teaspoon of almond extract rounds it out. Don't forget your 2 ¼ cups (281g) of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
Quality indicators: Butter should be good quality, not oily or rancid, it is essencial for the perfect shortbread cookie with jam center , soft and melting.
Jam Session . Now for the strawberry "kiss" filling! Get yourself 1 pound (454g) of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped. Fresher the better! You’ll also need ½ cup (100g) of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
A ¼ teaspoon of almond extract is optional.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
Think almond extract cookies . Honestly, that little bit of almond extract takes these up a notch! It adds that little "je ne sais quoi" that makes them special.
No almond extract? Just use vanilla. For the strawberry jam, a touch of lemon juice brightens everything up. It stops it from being sickly sweet.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make ! Just a few essentials: a stand mixer or hand mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper, a small saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, and maybe a cookie scoop if you're feeling fancy.
Alternatives: No parchment paper? Use silicone baking mats. If you don't have a saucepan, a regular pot will do.
Honestly, making these Valentine Cookies For Kids or any Christmas Themed Meals For Kids is about having fun. So, get the bits and bobs you need, stick on some tunes, and let's bake! These are truly great holiday cookie recipes or for exploring thumbprint cookie variations .
Festive baking ideas for everyone!
Let's Bake Some Holiday Magic: Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a Festive Treat!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good cookie, especially during the holidays? This recipe for Strawberry Kiss Cookies is a game changer.
We're talking a buttery, melt-in-your mouth cookie with a sweet strawberry jam center. Perfect as Valentine Cookies For Kids and as Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make .
Trust me, these will be the hit of any party.
Prep Like a Pro: Essential Steps for Success
First, mise en place is key. Get all your ingredients measured out. Soften that butter! It needs to be softened, not melted.
Honestly, use a good stand mixer; it saves so much time. Speaking of time, make the jam a day ahead to make things easier.
This will keep your Christmas Themed Meals For Kids enjoyable and stress free.
step-by-step: Baking Bliss
Ready to get baking? Here's how to make these magical cookies.
- Make that lush jam first. Simmer your strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a pan. Cook for about 15- 20 minutes until nicely thickened.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until it is light and fluffy .
- Add the vanilla and almond extracts . The almond extract is optional, but it brings a festive taste, giving it the edge for holiday cookie recipes .
- Gently mix in your flour and salt. Do not overmix! We're after shortbread cookie with jam center perfection.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour . Seriously, do not skip this step.
- Roll into balls. Make a thumbprint. Fill with jam.
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 12- 15 minutes . Watch them carefully; we want a touch of golden brown.
Pro Tips for Cookie Perfection
Here are a few secrets I've learned over the years of festive baking. Make these Strawberry Christmas Cookies stand out.
- Don't overbake the cookies, or they'll be dry. Keep an eye on them!
- Chill the dough. Seriously. This prevents spreading. Nobody wants flat cookies.
- For a bit of a twist, try different thumbprint cookie variations. Add lemon zest to the dough or use raspberry jam, get creative!
Baking these Valentine Cookies For Kids and Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make should be fun, so don't worry too much about mistakes!
Recipe Notes For Perfect Valentines Strawberry Cookies
Right then, let's dive into a few extra bits that'll help you nail these Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a festive baking session.
Honestly, these little delights are worth every bit of effort! These are perfect for Christmas themed meals for kids or Valentine cookies for kids.
Serving these beauties
Plating and Presentation Ideas: Right, picture this: dust those lovely Valentine Cookies For Kids with icing sugar for a proper snowy effect.
Pop 'em on a tiered stand for a bit of drama. Think posh tea party, but with holiday cookie recipes instead of cucumber sandwiches.
Complementary Sides or Beverages: A steaming mug of hot chocolate goes down a treat. Or if you are feeling fancy, try a glass of dessert wine.
Storing them away
Refrigeration Guidelines: These are proper tasty, but store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, max. Nobody wants a soggy biscuit, you know?
Freezing Options (if applicable): Fancy making the dough in advance? Wrap it up tight and freeze it for up to a month.
Just let it defrost fully before rolling out. Remember: Wrap the cookie dough carefully in plastic film before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions: A quick zap in the microwave works. But honestly, they are best at room temperature.
Variations on Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make
1-2 Dietary Adaptations: Want gluten-free? Swap the regular flour for a gluten-free blend. For a nutty twist, try adding ground almonds. These almond extract cookies are super addictive, trust me.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Can’t find fresh strawberries? Use frozen ones for the jam, but fresh are best! Or, try making these Strawberry Christmas Cookies with other festive fruit like cranberries for a twist on this shortbread cookie with jam center.
Nutrition stuff
Simplified Nutrition Information: Each thumbprint cookie variations contains roughly 120 calories. It is also packed with a bit of sugar and some fat. Perfect for a treat, not for every day, right?
Key Health Benefits: Hey, let's be honest, these are festive baking ideas and not exactly health food. But a little treat can boost your mood. And that is good for you.
So there you have it! My secret tips for making these strawberry wonders extra special. Get in the kitchen and make some memories! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a spreading too much in the oven?
Ah, spreading cookies! Sounds like you need to chill your dough for longer! Make sure the dough is properly chilled for at least an hour, or even longer. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, and that your butter wasn't too soft to begin with it should be softened, not melted.
Think of it as a spa day for the dough - it needs that relaxation to stay in shape!
Can I make the strawberry jam filling for these Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the strawberry jam ahead of time is a brilliant idea and can save you time when you're ready to bake. Just whip it up a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. That way, you can channel your inner Mary Berry and focus on perfecting the cookie dough on baking day.
This also allows the jam to fully cool and thicken, perfect for those kiss indentations.
How do I store my Strawberry Kiss Cookies for a to keep them fresh?
To keep your Strawberry Kiss Cookies fresh as a daisy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about 3-5 days. If you live in a humid climate, you can add a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
For longer storage, you can freeze the un-dusted cookies for up to 2 months; thaw completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam in my Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
You certainly can use frozen strawberries for the jam, especially if fresh ones are out of season or a bit pricey. Just be aware that frozen strawberries tend to release more liquid, so you might need to cook the jam for a bit longer to achieve the desired thickness.
Fresh strawberries will give you a brighter, slightly less watered down flavor, though!
I don't like almond extract. Is it necessary for the Strawberry Kiss Cookies?
Not at all! The almond extract is there to add a little extra depth of flavour, a bit like a secret ingredient, but it's completely optional. If you're not a fan, simply omit it, or substitute an equal amount of vanilla extract.
They'll still be scrumptious Strawberry Kiss Cookies without it, don't you worry your pretty little head!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, these cookies can be adapted to be gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to look for a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binding agent, as this will help to give the cookies structure.
You might need to experiment with brands to find one you like, as results can vary.
Strawberry Kiss Cookies Holiday Cheer In Every B
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
