If you’re on the lookout for a cookie that’s bursting with fresh, fruity flavor and melt-in-your-mouth softness, this Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These delightful treats combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with the vibrant tang of freeze-dried strawberries for a cookie that looks as pretty as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a casual get-together, or just because, these cookies will brighten any moment with their beautiful, rosy hue and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these strawberry sugar cookies comes down to a handful of straightforward ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays its part—whether it’s creating that soft texture, lending sweetness, or infusing the cookies with a natural strawberry punch that elevates them beyond the everyday.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the cookies tender and moist.
- Granulated sugar: Adds classic sweetness and helps create a delicate crisp edge when baked.
- Large egg: Binds the dough together while contributing to a soft crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor complexity with its warm, sweet notes.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookies, making them perfectly chewy yet sturdy.
- Baking powder: Ensures a gentle rise, giving the cookies that light texture.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Freeze-dried strawberries: Ground into a powder, they deliver an intense strawberry flavor and a pretty pink color without extra moisture.
- Powdered sugar: Used in the glaze, it adds a sweet, smooth finish that beautifully complements the strawberry essence.
How to Make Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar
Start by beating the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This not only aerates the dough but also ensures that your cookies bake up with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impossible to resist.
Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract
Next, mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. The egg acts as the glue holding your cookie dough together, while the vanilla lends a comforting aroma and depth of flavor that accentuates the strawberry notes perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Ground Strawberries
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and finely ground freeze-dried strawberries. Gradually add this blend to your wet ingredients, mixing just until everything comes together to avoid overworking the dough and keeping the cookies tender.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into small balls and gently flatten them on your prepared baking sheet. This step is where you get to see the dough’s gorgeous pink hue shining through. Bake until the edges just start to turn a light golden color, a sign that they’re perfectly baked but still soft inside.
Step 5: Prepare Glaze and Drizzle
While your cookies cool, whip up a simple glaze from powdered sugar mixed with a touch of milk or water. Drizzle this over the cooled cookies for a glossy finish that doubles down on sweetness and gives your cookies a charming look that’s both inviting and delicious.
How to Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your strawberry sugar cookies even more tempting, try topping them with a sprinkle of finely crushed freeze-dried strawberries or edible flower petals. These little touches add a pop of color and a hint of sophistication that’s perfect for impressing guests or building a beautiful dessert table.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with fresh berries or a light, whipped cream for a refreshing contrast. They also go beautifully alongside a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a fruity sparkling beverage for an indulgent snack break or afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your strawberry sugar cookies on a pretty cake stand or arrange them in decorative tins for gifting. You could also sandwich a tangy strawberry jam or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a playful twist everyone will adore. Presentation is all about bringing out their cheerful vibe and making the experience even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover strawberry sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft, chewy texture. They’re best enjoyed within a few days for maximum freshness and that vibrant strawberry flavor to shine through.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a sealed freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop your cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This step refreshes the texture and intensifies the lovely strawberry aroma—like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried in the Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Fresh strawberries contain more moisture, which can alter the dough’s consistency and cause spreading or soggy cookies. Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred because they add concentrated flavor without extra moisture.
How do I get the cookies to have that perfect soft texture?
Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour, and be careful not to overbake. Removing the cookies when the edges are just golden but centers still look a little soft helps keep them tender.
Is there a way to make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or another egg replacer. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might shift slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
Can I add other flavors to the Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Sure! A pinch of cinnamon or almond extract can complement the strawberry beautifully. Just add small amounts to avoid overpowering the main flavor.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Beyond that, they may start to lose their soft texture but can still be enjoyed.
Final Thoughts
Making this Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe is like giving yourself a little gift of sweetness and sunshine. Easy to make yet wonderfully impressive, these cookies are a fantastic way to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to treat yourself, these strawberry sugar cookies will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create something truly special!
Print
Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Strawberry Sugar Cookies, a perfect blend of buttery sweetness and vibrant strawberry flavor. Made with freeze-dried strawberries incorporated into a tender sugar cookie dough, each bite offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Finished with a luscious powdered sugar glaze, these cookies are ideal for parties, holidays, or anytime you crave a fruity, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely ground
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes and is essential for a tender cookie.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack in the large egg and add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and the finely ground freeze-dried strawberries to ensure even distribution. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the cookie dough into approximately 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare and Drizzle Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract if using. Adjust with an extra tablespoon of liquid if needed to achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Freeze-dried strawberries add intense flavor without moisture; finely grind them for even distribution.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep cookies tender and soft.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, add a teaspoon of strawberry extract to the dough or glaze.
