Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer, look no further than these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! These cookies are not just any ordinary sweet; they are bursting with berry flavors and topped with creamy icing that will make your taste buds dance. I love making these cookies for family gatherings or simply to brighten up a busy weeknight. They’re a joy to share, whether at a picnic or just with friends over coffee.

What makes this recipe extra special is how simple and fun it is to prepare. You can whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for those spontaneous moments when you crave something sweet. Trust me, once you try these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously fruity: The freeze-dried strawberries infuse each cookie with intense strawberry flavor, making every bite a burst of joy.
• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze, even for beginners!
• Perfect for sharing: With 20 cookies in one batch, they’re great for sharing at parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying with loved ones.
• Customizable icing: The creamy icing can be adjusted to your liking, whether you want to dip the cookies or drizzle it on top.
• Kid-approved: These cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike—everyone loves the combination of sweet strawberry and rich cream cheese!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to create these 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add chocolate chips: For a delicious twist, mix in some chocolate chips with the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try other fruits: Substitute freeze-dried strawberries with other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity experience.
• Use almond flour: For a gluten-free version, swap out all-purpose flour for almond flour—just keep an eye on the cookie texture!
• Experiment with extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract or lemon extract to give your cookies a new flavor profile.

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by pulverizing the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender. This step is important because it allows you to incorporate that vibrant strawberry flavor directly into the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and salt until everything is well combined. Finally, mix in the strawberry jam—this adds moisture and enhances that lovely berry taste.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Roll your dough into small balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Remember to leave some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 4: Bake Them Up

Pop those delicious balls of dough into your preheated oven for about 8 minutes. Afterward, lightly tap the baking sheet to flatten them slightly before returning them to bake for another 2-3 minutes. This step ensures they have that perfect chewy center!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Icing

While your cookies cool down on a wire rack, it’s time to prepare the icing! In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and the remaining strawberry powder until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed—it should be thick but pourable.

Step 6: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, dip each cookie into the prepared icing or drizzle it generously over the tops. This final touch transforms them from delightful cookies into irresistible treats!

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Making cookies is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you create the best Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies ever!

• Use fresh freeze-dried strawberries: Opting for high-quality freeze-dried strawberries enhances the flavor and aroma of your cookies. Freshness ensures that the vibrant berry taste shines through in each bite.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: If your dough feels too soft to work with, consider chilling it for 30 minutes before rolling. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.

• Check your oven temperature: To avoid under or over-baking, use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. This simple tool can help you achieve perfectly baked cookies every time.

• Experiment with icing consistency: Adjust the thickness of your icing by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner drizzle. A well-balanced icing enhances both presentation and flavor.

• Store cookies properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness. Adding a slice of bread can help keep them moist longer!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

When it comes to serving these delightful cookies, creativity can go a long way in making your dessert table truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries: Sliced strawberries on top or beside the cookies add a beautiful, vibrant touch that complements their flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can provide a lovely contrast in color and a refreshing hint of flavor that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these strawberry cookies, creating a delightful contrast that is perfect for warm days.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness to your dessert spread, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the overall experience of enjoying these cookies.
• Strawberry lemonade: A refreshing glass of strawberry lemonade complements the flavors perfectly and adds a fun touch to any gathering.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your deliciously sweet Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have sweet treats ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For added freshness, layer parchment paper between cookies.

Freezing

• Flash freeze cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave for 15-20 seconds if you prefer!

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

Can I use fresh strawberries in Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

While freeze-dried strawberries give these cookies their unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with fresh strawberries. Just chop them finely and reduce the strawberry jam slightly to balance moisture.

How do I get the icing to the right consistency?

For the icing on your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies, start with the given amounts. If it’s too thick, gradually add more hot milk until you reach your desired drizzling consistency.

Can I substitute ingredients in this cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Additionally, swap out all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! Their vibrant flavors and creamy icing make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them yourself, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!