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.
