Description
Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are delightful treats that combine the rich, buttery texture of traditional shortbread with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries. By incorporating freeze-dried strawberries into the dough, these cookies achieve a natural strawberry taste without adding extra moisture, ensuring a perfect crumbly texture.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder (see note)
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- Optional: sparkling sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Powder:
- Place freeze-dried strawberries in a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Blend until they form a fine powder.
- Sift the powder to remove any larger pieces.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and strawberry powder, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape and Chill:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a disk.
- Wrap the disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm.
- Roll and Cut:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Optional Decoration:
- If desired, lightly brush the edges of each cookie with a beaten egg white and roll them in sparkling sugar for a decorative touch.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder: To make the strawberry powder, blend freeze-dried strawberries into a fine consistency. This method ensures the cookies have a natural strawberry flavor without adding moisture.