Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of summer, these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are just the ticket! Bursting with berry flavors and topped with creamy icing, they are sure to bring joy to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, these cookies are easy to whip up and share with loved ones. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite in my household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves strawberries! These cookies are perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. They stay fresh and delightful!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of freeze-dried strawberries and creamy icing makes each bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy for you to bake up a batch of happiness. Gather these items before you start, and get ready to enjoy some delightful Double Strawberry Sugar 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
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup hot milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add a Citrus Twist: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs well with strawberries.
• Use Different Berries: Swap out freeze-dried strawberries for freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries for a fun berry medley!
• Try Different Icings: Experiment with different flavors like almond or coconut extract in the icing for an exciting twist.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.

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 as it concentrates the strawberry flavor into your cookies. The more flavor we can pack in, the better!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture we all love!

Step 4: Mix in Egg and Dry Ingredients

Beat in the egg next. Gradually incorporate the flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and salt. Finally, mix in the strawberry jam for added moisture and sweetness. Each ingredient plays its part in creating that delightful cookie base.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry if they look a bit rustic – they will spread beautifully while baking!

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Bake them 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 technique helps create those soft centers we adore.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and the remaining strawberry powder in another bowl. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where your cookies will shine!

Step 8: Icing Time!

Once your cookies have cooled completely, dip them into the prepared icing or drizzle it over their tops for that signature finish. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and egg are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, resulting in softer, fluffier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, while gentle mixing encourages tenderness.

• Chill the dough (optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help maintain the cookie shape and enhance flavors, making them even more delicious.

• Experiment with different jams: While strawberry jam is a star ingredient, feel free to mix it up with raspberry or blueberry preserves for a unique twist on flavor.

• Adjust icing consistency: If your icing is too thick, add a little more hot milk; if too runny, add powdered sugar. The right consistency makes for beautiful drizzles or dips!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

These cookies are not just tasty but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberry slices: A few thin slices of fresh strawberries on top of each cookie add a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.

• Mint leaves: A small sprig of mint beside each cookie provides a refreshing contrast and enhances the presentation with vibrant green.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the fruity flavor of the cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.

• Whipped coconut cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream adds a tropical touch that complements the strawberry flavor without overpowering it.

• Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus brings brightness to your dessert table and perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.

• Lemonade or iced tea: A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea enhances your cookie experience by adding brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies will shine at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To maintain the icing’s texture, store the cookies without icing and frost just before serving.

Freezing

• Flash freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, simply place frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5 minutes.
• For frosted cookies, reheat them in the oven without the icing on top; add it once they cool down again.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some common inquiries about these delightful cookies.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries in Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

While fresh strawberries are delicious, they contain moisture that can alter the cookie’s texture. For the best results, stick with freeze-dried strawberries for that intense flavor and perfect consistency.

How long will my Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for optimal texture.

What should I do if my icing is too thick?

If you find your icing too thick after mixing it, simply add a little more hot milk until you reach your desired consistency. This will help it drizzle beautifully over your cookies!

Can I skip the icing altogether?

Of course! These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are wonderfully tasty on their own. If you’re looking for a lighter treat or want to keep things simple, feel free to enjoy them plain!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these delicious Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! With their vibrant flavors and creamy icing, they’re sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging yourself, these cookies are bound to make any moment sweeter. Enjoy every step of creating this delightful treat — happy baking!