Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the sweet, subtle essence of fresh strawberries into a classic buttery cookie. This recipe is your go-to for creating perfectly soft and chewy cookies bursting with natural fruity flavor, proving that homemade goodness is always the best option for a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Key Ingredients for Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for intensified strawberry flavor)
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries, well-drained (pat dry with paper towels)
• Red or pink food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)

How to Make Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Get ready to experience the joy of baking these incredibly easy Strawberry Sugar Cookies. In just under 30 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of baking per batch, you’ll have a delightful batch of soft, chewy cookies that are bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Their simple preparation makes them perfect for beginners, and the burst of fruit ensures they are a satisfying treat for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This crucial step incorporates air, which contributes to the cookie’s tender texture.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if using. If you desire a more vibrant pink cookie, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring at this stage and mix until evenly distributed.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing pockets of bitterness or uneven rising.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and lead to tough cookies. Mix until no dry streaks of flour remain.
5. Incorporate Strawberries: Gently fold in the finely chopped and well-drained fresh strawberries using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure the strawberries are as dry as possible to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cookie dough’s texture.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period is essential. It allows the fats to firm up, making the dough easier to handle, and it also helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more intense strawberry taste.
7. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
8. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. For a classic sugar cookie look, you can gently roll each ball in additional granulated sugar before placing it on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies. Or, for a slightly flatter cookie, gently press down on each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but still slightly soft. Overbaking will result in dry, hard cookies.
10. Cool Completely: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set up properly and prevents them from breaking.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with these incredible Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Their star feature is the delightful burst of authentic strawberry flavor that comes from using fresh, juicy strawberries, making them a refreshing alternative to plain sugar cookies. Making these at home is not only incredibly rewarding but also a fantastic money-saver compared to store-bought treats, allowing you to control the quality and quantity of your ingredients.

The subtle sweetness, complemented by the optional hint of almond extract, creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting, reminiscent of a delicate strawberry shortcake but in a delightful cookie form. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones, brightening up any afternoon tea, or simply enjoying as a sweet moment to yourself. Why not try them today and experience a taste of pure, homemade happiness?

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the deliciousness of your Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

• Room Temperature Storage: Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Layering them between sheets of parchment paper can prevent them from sticking together.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: For longer storage, you can freeze baked and cooled cookies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Usually, these cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you do prefer a warmer cookie, a very brief moment in a low-heat oven (around 250°F or 120°C for 2-3 minutes) can revive a slightly stale cookie, but be mindful not to overbake them.
• Freezing Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking. Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a charming and tasty way to bring a touch of fruity delight to your baking repertoire. They offer a delightful balance of sweetness and strawberry essence that’s perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to give these simple yet sensational cookies a try at home; you’ll be delighted by the delicious results!