Baking Strawberry Sugar Cookies is a delightful experience that melds the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the comforting softness of a sugar cookie. There’s something undeniably special about these cookies, especially when the strawberries add a vibrant color and juicy flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a summer gathering, planning a special treat for your family, or just looking to elevate your cookie game, these strawberry-infused delights will leave everyone craving more. As someone who has baked these cookies repeatedly, I can vouch for their heavenly taste and the joy they bring.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
One of the many reasons to whip up these Strawberry Sugar Cookies is their unique flavor profile that stands apart from traditional cookies. The fresh strawberries not only add a burst of fruitiness but also a beautiful hue if you choose to use some food coloring. These cookies bake up soft and chewy, making them incredibly kid-friendly and enjoyable for adults, too! Perfect for a summer picnic or any casual get-together, they can easily take center stage at dessert time.
“These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are an absolute hit! The fresh strawberry flavor shines through, and they are just the right amount of sweetness. My family can’t get enough!” – Happy Baker
How to make Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Step-by-step overview
Making Strawberry Sugar Cookies is surprisingly simple and fun! You’ll start by creating a homemade strawberry syrup, then mix the ingredients to form a dough, and finally shape and bake your cookies. The entire process takes a bit of time, mainly due to chilling the dough, but the results are undoubtedly worth the wait.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Here’s a complete list of the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering strawberry delights:
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for the syrup)
- ½ cup vegan butter or dairy-free baking stick (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (for the dough)
- ¼ cup cooled strawberry syrup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (egg replacement)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups gluten-free flour (with xanthan gum)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: red or pink food coloring
- Extra sugar for rolling
If you’re not keen on using gluten-free flour, all-purpose flour works just as well for those without dietary restrictions!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Make the Strawberry Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Simmer on medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, gently mashing the strawberries until the mixture thickens. Strain the syrup to remove solids and chill it for at least 30 minutes.
Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the chilled strawberry syrup, the cornstarch-water mixture, and vanilla extract. Blend everything thoroughly.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. If desired, add food coloring until you reach your preferred shade.
Chill: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 2½ hours (or overnight for even better results).
Shape & Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, roll them in extra sugar, and place them on a lined baking sheet with adequate spacing. Bake for 14–16 minutes until the edges are set and the tops crackle. Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
How to serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Best ways to enjoy it
These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are delectable on their own but can be enhanced with creative serving ideas. Consider pairing them with a scoop of strawberry sorbet for an ice-cream sandwich twist. They also look lovely arranged on a platter dusted with powdered sugar to give a festive feel. If you want to elevate the experience, serve them alongside a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for a delightful summer treat!
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Strawberry Sugar Cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just remember to stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- Use room temperature vegan butter for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the dough firm up, resulting in a better texture once baked.
- Experiment with the strawberry syrup—add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang or try infusing it with mint for subtle herbaceous notes.
Variations
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with your Strawberry Sugar Cookies:
- Substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
- Add a dash of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for an elegant touch that complements the fruitiness beautifully.
FAQs
Common questions
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly beforehand.
2. How do I ensure my cookies are gluten-free?
Be cautious and check labels on the flour and other ingredients to avoid any cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.
3. What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn!
Baking these Strawberry Sugar Cookies will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of summer. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Strawberry Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 166 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delightful cookies that blend the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the comforting softness of sugar cookies, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for the syrup)
- ½ cup vegan butter or dairy-free baking stick (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (for the dough)
- ¼ cup cooled strawberry syrup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (egg replacement)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups gluten-free flour (with xanthan gum)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: red or pink food coloring
- Extra sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Make the Strawberry Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Simmer on medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, gently mashing the strawberries until the mixture thickens. Strain the syrup to remove solids and chill it for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the chilled strawberry syrup, cornstarch-water mixture, and vanilla extract. Blend thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. If desired, add food coloring until you reach your preferred shade.
- Chill: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 2½ hours (or overnight for even better results).
- Shape & Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, roll in extra sugar, and place on a lined baking sheet with spacing. Bake for 14–16 minutes until the edges are set and the tops crackle. Allow to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Use room temperature vegan butter for easier mixing. Don’t skip the chilling step for better texture. Experiment with the strawberry syrup for added flavors.
- Prep Time: 150 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: strawberry cookies, sugar cookies, vegan dessert, summer treats, baking recipes