Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a soft, chewy cookie, then you’ll absolutely love these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent baking with friends and family. The vibrant strawberry flavor and creamy icing make these cookies perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a celebratory gathering.

These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun strawberry flavor and the creamy icing, making them ideal for family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you need a sweet treat.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy the delicious strawberry taste that pairs perfectly with various occasions or desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to gather everything you need for these scrumptious cookies. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies to life!

For the Cookies

• 3 cups freeze-dried strawberries
• 1 cup salted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/3 cup strawberry jam

For the Icing

• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup hot milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: If you have fresh strawberries on hand, try mashing them finely instead of using freeze-dried ones.
• Experiment with Other Berries: Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry-flavored cookie.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Powder

Start by pulverizing your freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender. This step is crucial as it infuses each cookie with intense strawberry flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheating ensures even baking and helps the cookies rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This process is important as it helps create airy cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Beat in the egg followed by gradually incorporating flour, baking soda, part of your strawberry powder, and salt. Finally, mix in the strawberry jam for an extra burst of flavor! This combination creates a rich dough filled with berry goodness.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes before lightly tapping the baking sheet to flatten them slightly. Bake for another 2-3 minutes until they’re just golden around the edges.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

In another bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and the remaining strawberry powder. Mix until smooth; if it’s too thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency. This icing adds that creamy touch we all love!

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, dip them into the prepared icing or drizzle it over the tops. The creamy icing beautifully complements the chewy texture of the cookies while enhancing their strawberry flavor.

Enjoy every bite of your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! They’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, especially the baking soda and butter. Fresh ingredients lead to better flavor and texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the chilling: If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and results in a chewier texture.

• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Over-measuring can lead to dry cookies, while under-measuring can make them too sticky.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try adding sprinkles or crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top of the icing for an extra pop of color and flavor.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help retain moisture.

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

These charming cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A couple of mint leaves add a refreshing touch and vibrant color that complements the strawberry flavor.
• Crushed freeze-dried strawberries: Sprinkle some on top of the icing for an extra burst of berry goodness and a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Berry salad: A light and refreshing salad made with mixed berries will enhance the fruity theme and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Lemonade or iced tea: These beverages are perfect accompaniments, helping to cleanse your palate between bites while keeping things cool and refreshing.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh strawberries for a wholesome side that complements the cookie’s flavors without overpowering them.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes, just until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?

While fresh strawberries provide delicious flavor, they contain moisture that can alter the cookie’s texture. Stick to freeze-dried strawberries for the best results!

How do I make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cookie, try reducing the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup. The icing will still add sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Can I substitute the cream cheese in the icing?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as alternatives for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Their burst of berry goodness paired with creamy icing makes every bite special. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!