Sweet Pink Valentine Cookies (Printer-Friendly Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Cookie Base
01 -
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
02 -
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
03 -
1 large egg, room temperature
04 -
1 tsp vanilla extract
05 -
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
06 -
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
07 -
1 tsp baking powder
08 -
1/4 tsp salt
09 -
1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
→ Toppings
10 -
1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
11 -
24-30 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped
# Let's Cook!:
01 -
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), beating until well combined. Mix 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.
02 -
Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick and soft.
03 -
Gently press the center of each dough ball with your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create a shallow indentation. Twist slightly to make the indentation smooth and rounded.
04 -
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Pull them out when the edges look set. Let the cookies rest on the sheet for a minute or two, then move them to the Wire Cooling Rack.
05 -
While the cookies are still warm, press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will slightly soften the chocolate, allowing it to stick without melting too much.
06 -
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set. Once cooled, dust a light layer of powdered sugar over each cookie.
# Cook's Notes:
01 -
For bright pink color, add a drop of food coloring if desired
02 -
Ensure dough balls are smooth when rolling for best texture
03 -
30-minute chill time helps cookies hold shape better