Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the sweetness of strawberries and the comforting goodness of cookies. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also bursting with juicy strawberry flavor. Perfect for dessert, a snack, or any occasion, they will surely bring a smile to your face.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Strawberry Shortcake Cookies because they are easy to prepare and require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. These cookies are a great way to enjoy fresh strawberries, especially during the warmer months. They are also a hit at gatherings and can make any day feel special. Baking these cookies fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma that everyone will love.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Making Strawberry Shortcake Cookies is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have delicious cookies baked in no time!

Ingredients

8 oz. strawberries, hulled and cut into small pieces
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Coarse sugar, for sprinkling

Directions

Prepare the Strawberries: Start by chopping the strawberries into small pieces and blotting them with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Place the strawberries in the freezer.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Then, incorporate the chilled butter until you achieve a coarse crumb texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then stir this mixture into the flour mixture until a thick dough forms.
Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the chilled strawberries into the dough until evenly distributed.
Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Shape them into balls and press them down slightly. Top each one with extra strawberries and sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sparkle.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 16-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

These cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. They also make a delightful addition to any picnic or dessert table.

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven.

Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Make sure the butter is very cold to ensure the cookies are tender.
Don’t skip the step of blotting the strawberries to keep the dough from becoming too wet.
Experiment with different types of berries or add chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Variation

You can try making these cookies with different fruits, such as blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. Each variation will give you a unique flavor while keeping the base of the recipe the same.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it is a blend made for baking.

3. Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch to the cookies. Just fold them in with the strawberries.

Now you’re ready to make delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cookies and enjoy their delightful flavors!