Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 24 Hershey's Kisses

Instructions:

  1. Cream the softened butter with the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Slowly incorporate the strawberry cake mix into the wet ingredients, mixing only until no dry streaks remain to avoid over-airing the dough.
  3. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to prevent excessive spreading and reduce stickiness.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop 1.5 tablespoon portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat thoroughly in granulated sugar.
  5. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 10 minutes.
  6. Remove from oven and let sit for exactly 120 seconds. Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie while the residual heat is high enough to bond but low enough to maintain the chocolate's shape.