Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth while releasing the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries. Strawberry Sugar Cookies combine the lusciousness of ripe strawberries with the satisfying sweetness of classic sugar cookies. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering, enjoying them as a delightful tea-time treat, or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are sure to enchant every palate. The strawberry reduction provides a concentrated strawberry essence that permeates each cookie, while the optional addition of red gel food coloring enhances their visual appeal without altering the natural flavors. These cookies are perfect for bakers who love adding a fruity twist to traditional recipes, and they’re sure to become a favorite in any cookie-loving household.
Ingredients about Strawberry Sugar Cookies
List of Ingredients with Measurements
Creating Strawberry Sugar Cookies involves a thoughtfully curated list of ingredients that bring the recipe to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup sliced strawberries, fresh or frozen and thawed (150g)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
- 2 Tbsp water (30g)
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch (8g)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 3 Tbsp strawberry reduction – made above (70g)
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (76g)
- Red gel food coloring – optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (5g)
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour – fluffed then spooned and leveled (325g)
- 2 tsp baking powder (8g)
- 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
- 1/4 cup strawberry reduction – recipe above (80g)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – for coating the outside of the cookies (50g)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Parchment paper or 2 silicone baking mats
- 2 large baking sheets
- 3 Tbsp cookie scoop
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
To customize your Strawberry Sugar Cookies or cater to dietary needs, consider these substitutions:
- Butter: Substitute with an equal amount of plant-based margarine for a vegan option.
- Granulated Sugar: Use cane sugar or coconut sugar as alternative sweeteners.
- All-Purpose Flour: Swap with gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the cookies gluten-free.
- Vanilla Extract: If you’re out of vanilla extract, almond extract can be a delightful alternative.
How to Make Strawberry Sugar Cookies Directions
Crafting Strawberry Sugar Cookies requires a few thoughtful steps to amplify the flavors and ensure the perfect texture. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Step 1: Preparing the Strawberry Reduction
Begin by making the strawberry reduction, which serves as the cornerstone of flavor for your cookies. In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally and allow the mixture to come to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the strawberries break down into a thick sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and stir until fully incorporated, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to simmer until the mixture has reduced to a thick consistency. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the reduction cool completely.
Step 2: Preparing the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Next, add the cooled strawberry reduction, 1 large egg, and 1 egg yolk to the mixture. If using, add a few drops of red gel food coloring to achieve a more vibrant color. Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine salt. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined after each addition. Be cautious not to overmix, as it can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Roll each dough ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until fully coated.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring enough space between each ball to accommodate spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft. Remove the cookies from the oven and cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Strawberry Sugar Cookies are versatile and can be served in various settings, making them a delightful addition to any occasion:
- As a Dessert: Serve the cookies as a standalone dessert at parties or celebratory gatherings.
- With Tea or Coffee: Pair them with your afternoon tea or morning coffee for a sweet treat.
- At picnics or barbecues: These cookies are easy to transport and make a perfect summer picnic snack.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
- With Ice Cream: Pair the cookies with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- With Fresh Berries: Serve the cookies with a side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries to enhance their fruity flavor.
- As a Cookie Sandwich: Spread cream cheese or strawberry jam between two cookies to create a whimsical cookie sandwich.
How to Store Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your Strawberry Sugar Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
- At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to keep them soft.
- In the Refrigerator: If you prefer a firmer texture, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
- Freezing Cookies: Place the cooked and cooled cookies in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Frozen Cookies: Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving, or reheat them briefly in the oven at a low temperature for a fresher taste.
Tips to Make Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Avoid overbaking to maintain their soft and chewy texture. The edges should be set, but the centers should remain soft when you remove them from the oven.
- Inadequate Mixing: Ensure that the butter and sugar are well creamed to achieve the right cookie texture.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Chill the Dough: If your cookie dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
- High-quality Vanilla Extract: Utilizing pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Variations of Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate over cooled cookies for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a hint of citrusy brightness that complements the strawberry flavor.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Vegan Variation: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
- Keto-Friendly: Substitute sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener and use almond flour instead of regular flour for a low-carb option.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
- If your cookies are spreading too much, ensure the dough is cold and the flour measurements are accurate. Too much butter can cause excess spreading.
- If the cookies taste bland, double-check that you’ve used the right amount of strawberry reduction and add a little more vanilla or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
- Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake the cookies just before you need them for optimal freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
- If strawberries are out of season, consider using high-quality strawberry preserves in place of fresh strawberries.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free baking blend with a one-to-one ratio.
