Strawberry Sugar Cookies: A Sweet Summer Memory

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are the perfect way to capture the bright, fresh flavors of summer in a soft and chewy cookie. With a delicate strawberry flavor and a hint of vanilla, these cookies are irresistibly sweet and slightly crisp on the edges. Whether you’re making them for a picnic, a family gathering, or just because, they’ll remind you of warm summer days with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with strawberry flavor – Made with fresh or freeze-dried strawberries for a natural fruity taste.
• Soft and chewy texture – Perfectly tender with a slight crisp on the edges.
• Beautiful pink color – Naturally tinted by strawberries, no artificial dyes needed.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and a quick baking process.
• Perfect for any occasion – A great summer treat, holiday dessert, or homemade gift.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Freeze-dried strawberries (ground into a fine powder) or fresh chopped strawberries
• Optional: Pink sanding sugar for decoration

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and strawberry powder (or fresh strawberries).
   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough
   • Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and prevent spreading.
4. Shape and Bake
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll the dough into small balls, then coat with pink sanding sugar if using.
   • Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
5. Cool and Serve
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
   • Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 18-20 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Strawberry Lemon Cookies – Add lemon zest for a bright citrus twist.
• White Chocolate Strawberry Cookies – Fold in white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
• Strawberry Glaze – Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and strawberry puree.
• Extra Soft Version – Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the dough for a richer texture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
• Reheating: No reheating needed—just enjoy as is!

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Yes, but chop them finely and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

How do I make these cookies extra pink?

Use more strawberry powder or add a touch of natural food coloring.

Can I use strawberry jam in the dough?

Yes, but slightly reduce the sugar to balance the sweetness.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavors.

Can I substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar?

Yes, but it will slightly change the texture, making the cookies chewier.

Can I turn this into a cookie bar recipe?

Yes, press the dough into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.

How do I keep my cookies from getting too dry?

Avoid overbaking and use room-temperature ingredients for the best texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and bake the next day.

Do these cookies work with other fruits?

Yes, try freeze-dried raspberries or blueberries for a fun variation.

What pairs well with these cookies?

They go great with tea, lemonade, or vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the fresh, fruity flavors of summer. With their soft, chewy texture, beautiful pink hue, and sweet strawberry taste, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Try them today and savor a little bite of sunshine!

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