Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Introduction

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delicious twist on the classic sugar cookie, bringing a burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. These soft, chewy cookies are made with real strawberries and a touch of vanilla, giving them a sweet, fruity taste that pairs perfectly with a subtle, sweet sugar coating. The vibrant pink color adds a playful touch, making them as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

I first made these cookies when I wanted something different for a bake sale, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The strawberry flavor is so fresh, and the soft texture makes them impossible to resist. The sweet sugar coating adds just the right amount of crunch, and the pop of pink makes them extra fun to share.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to be a hit. The combination of the sweet strawberry flavor and the classic sugar cookie texture makes them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Summer gatherings
• Birthday parties
• Afternoon tea
• Gift-giving
• Strawberry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Here’s why Strawberry Sugar Cookies will become your new favorite:

• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are wonderfully soft and chewy thanks to the addition of fresh strawberry puree in the dough.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Real strawberries provide a natural sweetness and refreshing flavor, making these cookies stand out from traditional sugar cookies.
• Easy to Make: This simple recipe uses basic ingredients and requires only a few steps, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Colorful and Fun: The vibrant pink hue makes these cookies a fun addition to any occasion, and they’re sure to brighten up any dessert table.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can enhance the flavor and texture by adding sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of glaze on top.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 100-120 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 1g, Carbs: 16g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup fresh strawberry puree (about 3-4 fresh strawberries)
• ½ teaspoon strawberry extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for topping, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Strawberry Puree: Using fresh strawberries gives these cookies a natural sweetness and a fruity, fragrant flavor that can’t be replicated with artificial flavoring.
• Butter: Butter adds a rich flavor and contributes to the soft, chewy texture of these cookies.
• Sugar Coating: Rolling the cookies in sugar before baking gives them a delicate crunch and extra sweetness on the outside.
• Strawberry Extract (Optional): A small amount of strawberry extract can intensify the strawberry flavor if desired.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Puree: In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries until smooth. Set aside.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until smooth and well combined.
6. Add the Strawberry Puree: Stir in the strawberry puree and, if using, the strawberry extract. Mix until evenly incorporated.
7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
8. Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to scoop and roll.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

9. Roll the Dough in Sugar: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat them evenly.
10. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
11. Flatten the Dough: Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your palm to ensure even baking.
12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft.
13. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways:

• As a Dessert: Serve them on a dessert table at any event, whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal celebration.
• With a Hot Beverage: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• As a Gift: Pack these cookies into a cute box or jar for a sweet homemade gift for friends and family.
• For a Summer Treat: These cookies are perfect for a picnic or summer party, offering a light and refreshing bite.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and moisture for these cookies. If you use frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can result in dense cookies, so mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
• Chill the Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape the cookies.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, increase the sugar slightly or add more sugar to the coating.
• Add a Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cookies for extra sweetness and a glossy finish. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and a bit of vanilla extract to make the glaze.

Recipe Variations for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

• Strawberry Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Strawberry Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent addition to the cookies.
• Strawberry Coconut Sugar Cookies: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flavor.
• Strawberry Almond Sugar Cookies: Add almond extract and chopped almonds for a nutty, aromatic variation.
• Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies: Serve these cookies with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a strawberry shortcake-inspired dessert.
• Strawberry Oatmeal Sugar Cookies: Add rolled oats to the dough for a chewy, heartier version of these cookies.
• Gluten-Free Strawberry Sugar Cookies: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
• Strawberry-Matcha Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the dough for a unique green tea flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Strawberry Crumble Cookies: Top each cookie with a small amount of crumb topping made from flour, sugar, and butter for a crunchy texture.
• Strawberry Buttercream-Filled Sugar Cookies: Sandwich two cookies together with a layer of strawberry-flavored buttercream for an extra indulgent treat.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully. Place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Strawberry Sugar Cookies easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you cream the butter and sugar to the perfect consistency.
• Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures even-sized cookies for consistent baking.
• Baking Sheets: Use parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheets for easy removal of the cookies.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Prevent sticking and ensure even baking with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack lets the cookies cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?
   Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just scoop and bake when ready.
3. Can I add other fruits to the dough?
   Yes, you can experiment with adding other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Just be sure to chop or puree them to avoid too much moisture in the dough.
4. How can I make the cookies more colorful?
   If you’d like a more vibrant pink color, feel free to add a few drops of food coloring to the strawberry puree.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful, sweet treat that brings a burst of fresh strawberry flavor to your cookie repertoire. With their soft texture, vibrant color, and subtle sweetness, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re baking for a special event or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon. These cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!

This recipe is as fun to bake as it is to eat, making it ideal for everything from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or savoring a few with a cup of tea, these strawberry sugar cookies are sure to brighten up your day.

I’d love to see how your Strawberry Sugar Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!