Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Bursting with flavor and topped with creamy icing, Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a bake sale, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these delightful cookies will impress everyone. Their unique strawberry essence and soft texture make them a standout dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of freeze-dried strawberries and creamy icing creates a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies quickly, making them perfect for novice bakers.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are suitable for various occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Shareable Goodness: With 20 cookies in one batch, they are great for sharing with friends or family.
• Fun for Kids: Involving kids in the baking process can make it an enjoyable activity while teaching them essential cooking skills.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Perfect for pulverizing freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder, ensuring even distribution in your cookie dough.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Baking Sheet: Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

Bursting with berry flavors and creamy icing, these cookies are perfect for sharing.

• 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

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 ensures that the strawberry flavor is intense in each cookie.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prepare your cooking surface and help prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cream the Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, cream together the salted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and kosher salt into the mixture. Finally, mix in the strawberry jam until evenly combined.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure enough space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 8 minutes. Lightly tap the baking sheet to flatten the cookies slightly. Then return to the oven for an additional 2–3 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

In another bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and remaining strawberry powder. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed to achieve a smooth icing.

Step 8: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cooled, dip each cookie into the prepared icing or drizzle it over the tops for an appealing finish. Enjoy your delicious Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies make a delightful treat for any occasion. Their vibrant flavor and creamy icing can elevate your dessert table or snack time. Consider these serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Serve cookies alongside fresh strawberries for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create a delicious ice cream sandwich with your favorite flavor of ice cream.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Present them on a decorative platter at your next gathering for an eye-catching dessert option.

Drizzled with Extra Icing

• Add a drizzle of extra icing on top right before serving for an appealing finish.

Paired with Milk or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for the perfect pairing.

How to Perfect Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

To ensure your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Properly measure flour: Avoid packing flour into the measuring cup; instead, spoon it in and level it off for accurate measurements.
• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
• Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweet flavors of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing treat that balances sweetness with tartness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cookies, offering a savory element.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruit and cookie pieces into warm chocolate for an indulgent side dish.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of cookies.
6. Creamy Pudding: Serve vanilla or strawberry pudding as a smooth side that pairs well with the cookie’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

• Using too much flour: This leads to dry cookies. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Not creaming butter and sugar enough: Insufficient creaming results in dense cookies. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy for the best texture.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment for easy removal.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them to avoid dryness. Cookies should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Cold butter or eggs can affect dough consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies? Here are some common questions.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries add moisture, which may alter the cookie texture. Stick with freeze-dried strawberries for best results.

How do I customize my Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

You can add white chocolate chips, nuts, or even different jams to create unique flavors that suit your taste!

What can I substitute for cream cheese icing?

For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla extract as a delicious alternative.

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Avoid overbaking and store them properly in an airtight container after cooling. This helps maintain their softness.

Final Thoughts

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies burst with flavor and offer delightful versatility. You can easily customize them with various mix-ins or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!