Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings smiles to everyone around, these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are just the ticket! With a burst of berry flavors and creamy icing, they are a favorite in our home. I love how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a bake sale, or simply treating yourself, these cookies will surely brighten your day with their sweet and fruity charm.

These cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to share love and joy with those you care about. Plus, they look as beautiful as they taste—perfect for impressing friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The simple steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-friendly: Kids adore the fruity flavor, making it a great choice for family get-togethers.
• Perfect for sharing: These cookies are ideal for parties or as gifts; everyone will want to try them!
• Deliciously unique: The combination of freeze-dried strawberries and creamy icing gives these cookies a special twist.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies use simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delicious treats!

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

The beauty of these cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variation ideas:

• Add other fruits: Mix in some freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries for an extra fruity twist.
• Use different extracts: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to give the icing a unique flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate any dietary needs.
• Change the icing style: Instead of dipping, try spreading the icing on top for a frosted cookie look!

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Powder

Start by using a blender to pulverize those freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. This step is crucial because it not only intensifies the strawberry flavor but also gives our cookies that beautiful pink hue.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick—no one likes a broken cookie!

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This airiness is key; it helps create soft, tender cookies. Once mixed well, add in the egg and beat until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and salt. Gently fold in the strawberry jam at this stage too. This combination creates a sweet dough bursting with strawberry goodness.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Give them space; they’ll spread while baking!

Step 6: Bake

Pop them in the oven for about 8 minutes. After that time, lightly tap the baking sheet to flatten them slightly before returning them to bake for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help achieve that perfectly chewy texture!

Step 7: Make the Icing

While your cookies cool down, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and the remaining strawberry powder in a bowl. Whisk until smooth—if it’s too thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, dip each cookie into the icing or drizzle it over the tops. It adds such a lovely finishing touch that complements those yummy strawberry flavors beautifully!

Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Baking can be such a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your cookie game to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh butter and quality strawberries. This ensures the best flavor and texture in your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If time allows, refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out; they will continue to set as they cool.

• Experiment with Icing Consistency: Adjust the milk in your icing to achieve either a thicker consistency for dipping or a thinner one for drizzling. This versatility allows you to customize how you want your cookies to look.

• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them, which preserves their deliciousness!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Presentation is key when it comes to serving these delightful cookies! Here are some creative ways to make them shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding a sprig of mint not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing aroma that complements the strawberry flavor.
• Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful edible glitter or sugar can bring a festive touch to your cookies, making them perfect for celebrations.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these cookies, enriching each bite with creamy goodness that balances the sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring berries can be a refreshing side dish that brightens up your dessert table and adds a healthy element.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies and makes for a delightful snack pairing.
• Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese alongside crackers. The savory notes will balance beautifully with the sweet flavors of your cookies.

With these ideas, your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors over several days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For optimal freshness, layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Freezing

• Place cooled 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 warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer texture.

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?

Using fresh strawberries isn’t recommended as they contain too much moisture. Stick with freeze-dried strawberries for the best flavor and texture in your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies!

How do I store my leftover Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them layered with parchment paper to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze the cookies after they’ve cooled completely. Place them in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months!

How can I make the icing thicker for my Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

If you’d like a thicker icing, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that it will thicken as it sits!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! They blend sweetness and berry goodness into every bite, making them the perfect treat for sharing or enjoying solo. Whether you’re baking for yourself or someone special, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor each scrumptious bite!