1. Prepare the Dough: Building the Strawberry-Flavored Base

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Proper creaming incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to a tender cookie texture.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Mix in the Strawberry Gelatin: Add the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder to the wet ingredients. Beat on medium speed until the gelatin is fully incorporated and the dough turns a vibrant pink color. The gelatin not only adds flavor but also contributes to the cookies’ soft texture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking helps to aerate the dry ingredients and ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed.
5. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

2. Shape the Cookies: Creating the Perfect Canvas for Chocolate Kisses

1. Scoop the Dough: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out portions of dough.
2. Roll into Balls: Roll each portion of dough between your palms to form a smooth, round ball.
3. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

3. Create the Indentation for the Chocolate Kiss: Making Room for the Star

1. Press the Center: Using your thumb or the back of a rounded teaspoon, gently press down in the center of each dough ball to create a shallow indentation. This indentation will hold the chocolate kiss after baking.
   • Tip: If using your thumb, slightly wet it with water to prevent it sticking to the dough.
2. Perfect the Shape: For a more uniform appearance, you can gently twist your thumb or the spoon as you press down to make the indentation smooth and round.

4. Bake the Cookies: Achieving Golden Edges and a Soft Center

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
2. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes.
   • Check for Doneness: The cookies are done when they are set but still slightly soft to the touch, and the edges are just beginning to show faint cracks. They should not be overly browned.
3. Cool Briefly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 2-3 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly, making it easier to add the chocolate kisses without them melting too quickly.

5. Add the Chocolate Kisses: The Crowning Glory

1. Press in Kisses: While the cookies are still warm, gently press an unwrapped chocolate kiss candy into the indentation in the center of each cookie.
   • Tip: The warmth of the cookie will slightly soften the bottom of the kiss, helping it adhere. Press gently but firmly to secure the kiss in place.
2. Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the chocolate kisses will firm up and set.

6. Dust with Powdered Sugar: A Touch of Sweet Elegance

1. Wait Until Cool: Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before dusting with powdered sugar.
2. Dust: Using a fine-mesh sieve or a sifter, lightly dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for a decorative, snowy effect.