Strawberry Sugar Cookies

These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, bursting with the sweet and fruity flavor of strawberries. Soft, chewy, and vibrantly pink, they make the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a summer picnic, or just an afternoon snack. Finished with a touch of sugar sparkle and a fresh strawberry slice on top, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful. The strawberry essence infuses each bite, while the sugar coating gives a satisfying crunch to the soft and chewy center. This recipe is easy to follow, requires simple ingredients, and yields cookies that are guaranteed to impress both in taste and presentation. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead or gifting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Strawberry extract or strawberry puree
• Red or pink food coloring (optional)
• Fresh strawberries, halved (for topping)
• Sparkling sugar or sanding sugar (for coating)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add in the egg and strawberry extract or puree, and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
6. Add food coloring if using, and stir to evenly distribute the color.
7. Roll dough into balls and then into sparkling sugar to coat.
8. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and gently press a halved strawberry into the center of each.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 35 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant finish.
• Strawberry Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a zesty twist.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Sandwich two cookies with a layer of sweetened cream cheese for a more decadent treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Storage/Reheating

Store Strawberry Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave (5–10 seconds) to soften.

FAQs

What kind of strawberry flavoring should I use?

You can use either strawberry extract or real strawberry puree, depending on the intensity of flavor you prefer. Extract will give a stronger, more concentrated taste.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but they should be thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.

Do I need food coloring?

Food coloring is optional. It enhances the visual appeal but is not necessary for flavor.

How do I make the cookies chewier?

Do not overbake the cookies; remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still appear soft.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to slice strawberries for topping?

Use a sharp knife to slice the strawberries in halves or quarters, depending on the size of your cookies.

Can I use this recipe without a mixer?

Yes, you can cream the butter and sugar by hand with a sturdy spatula or whisk, though it may take longer.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, this recipe can be doubled to make a larger batch for parties or gatherings.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, these cookies hold up well and look beautiful when packaged in gift boxes or cookie tins.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, portion the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a charming and delicious treat that bring a burst of fruity flavor and a pop of color to any dessert table. Easy to prepare and versatile in presentation, they’re perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these cookies are bound to become a new favorite.

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