Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a soft, chewy texture, you’ve just found your new favorite recipe: Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! These cookies are bursting with berry flavors and topped with creamy icing that makes every bite a little piece of heaven. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert or bringing something special to a family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the vibrant pink hue from the strawberries adds a fun pop to any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious cookies without stress.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh strawberry taste and creamy icing makes these cookies truly special.
• Great for sharing: Bake these beauties and watch them disappear at parties, potlucks, or bake sales!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these cookies is not only easy but also fun thanks to the simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make our Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies!

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, allowing you to get creative with flavors and textures. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Try different jams: Substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or apricot for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.
• Enhance the flavor: Add lemon zest to the cookie dough for a refreshing citrus note.

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Using a blender, pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. This step is crucial because it helps infuse that delightful strawberry flavor throughout the cookies.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheating ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This aeration process creates tender cookies. Next, beat in the egg before gradually adding in the flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and salt. Finally, fold in the strawberry jam for added flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have space between them as they will spread while baking.

Step 5: Bake!

Bake your cookies for about 8 minutes. After this initial time, lightly tap the baking sheet to flatten them just slightly before baking for an additional 2-3 minutes. This technique helps create that lovely chewy texture we all adore.

Step 6: Make the Icing

In another bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and remaining strawberry powder until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed; it should be thick yet pourable.

Step 7: Frost Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, dip each cookie into your prepared icing or drizzle it over their tops for an extra sweet touch.

And there you have it—your own batch of delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the best Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies yet!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and eggs lead to a more flavorful cookie. They also contribute to better texture, creating that soft, chewy bite we all love.
• Don’t skip the chilling: If your dough feels too soft after mixing, consider refrigerating it for about 30 minutes. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add 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 fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it. You can bake fresh cookies whenever you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Presenting your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies can turn a simple treat into an irresistible delight! Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these serving ideas will elevate your cookie experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A couple of mint leaves on each plate not only adds a pop of color but also offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Crushed freeze-dried strawberries: Sprinkle some crushed berries over the icing for an eye-catching and flavorful finish that ties back to the cookie’s strawberry goodness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavors, making for a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal berries complements the cookies perfectly while keeping things fresh and vibrant.
• Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade balances out the sweetness of the cookies with its zesty citrus notes.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, creates a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying these delicious treats.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for meal prep. You can make them in advance and enjoy them fresh throughout the week or share them with family and friends!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you’re worried about them getting stale, place a slice of bread in the container to help keep them soft.

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 an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
• For a warm cookie, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds in the microwave.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

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

While fresh strawberries can add flavor, they contain moisture that could affect the dough’s consistency. It’s best to stick with freeze-dried strawberries for this recipe.

How can I ensure my Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. They should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese for the icing?

If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use a non-dairy cream cheese alternative or even whipped coconut cream for a lighter icing option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create these delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! They not only bring a burst of berry goodness but also add a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!