Name: Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cup freeze dried strawberries; 2 sticks salted butter, at room temperature (1 cup); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp kosher salt; ⅓ cup high-quality strawberry jam; 2 oz cream cheese; 2 cup powdered sugar; ¼ cup hot milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Introduction to Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Baking cookies at home is more than just a culinary task; it’s a delightful journey filled with mouthwatering scents and the joy of togetherness. When you whip up a batch of double strawberry sugar cookies, the walls of your kitchen will come alive with the sweet aroma of strawberries mingling with buttery goodness.

There's something truly special about crafting your treats from scratch. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, baking can actually enhance your mood, making it a fantastic way to unwind after a long day. Imagine gathering your friends or family in the kitchen, laughing and sharing stories, while the cookies bake to perfection.

These double strawberry sugar cookies are a vibrant twist on a classic favorite, showcasing both freeze-dried strawberries and a luscious strawberry jam. The result is a chewy cookie that's bursting with flavor—perfect for any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. Plus, you can personalize the icing to make them even more special!

Now, let’s dive into the world of baking as we explore how to make these delightful treats from the comfort of your home. Curious about how they come together? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Essential Ingredients for Cookie Perfection

To whip up your delicious double strawberry sugar cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together beautifully for a chewy, flavorful treat. Here’s what you’ll want to grab:

3 cups freeze-dried strawberries, ground into powder
2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar for that sweet kick
1 large egg to bind everything
2 teaspoons vanilla extract to enhance flavor
2 cups all-purpose flour to create the base
1 teaspoon baking soda for a perfect rise
½ teaspoon kosher salt to balance sweetness
⅓ cup high-quality strawberry jam for extra strawberry goodness

These ingredients will help you craft a cookie that’s rich in flavor and bursting with berry goodness.

Optional Ingredients for Custom Flavor

Want to make your double strawberry sugar cookies even more special? You could consider adding:

Zest of one lemon for a refreshing twist
A handful of white chocolate chips for a decadent complement to the strawberries
Chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture

Feel free to get creative! Adding these optional ingredients can give your cookies a unique flair. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite combination! For ingredient sourcing, check online grocery options like Instacart or Amazon Fresh. Enjoy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Making double strawberry sugar cookies is a delightful way to infuse your baking with vibrant flavors. With fresh ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you’ll impress your friends and family with cookies that are not just tasty but beautifully presented. Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps!

Gather and Prepare the Ingredients

Before diving into the baking process, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

3 cups freeze-dried strawberries
2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅓ cup high-quality strawberry jam

For the icing, ensure you have:

2 oz cream cheese
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup hot milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Create the Strawberry Powder

The unique component of double strawberry sugar cookies is the strawberry powder. Using a blender or food processor, process the freeze-dried strawberries until you achieve a fine powder. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color. Reserve a portion for the icing later!

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This reaction helps incorporate air, giving your cookies that delightful chewy texture. Don’t forget to add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring in the dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour, baking soda, ¼ cup of the previously made strawberry powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Follow with the strawberry jam, which helps keep the cookies moist. Start mixing slowly to avoid any flour clouds—trust me, it’s worth it!

Roll Out the Dough and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350° F. While it heats, roll your dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re about 2 inches apart. Bake them for 8 minutes, then rotate the tray and gently tap it on the counter to flatten the cookies. They should bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the edges are just set. Let them cool on the sheet for a moment before transferring them to a wire rack.

Prepare the Creamy Icing

For the icing, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl, whisking until smooth. Add more milk if needed for your desired consistency. Incorporate the rest of that lovely strawberry powder—you want to keep that fruity flavor front and center!

Dip or Frost the Cookies

Here’s the fun part! Decide whether you want to dip your cookies in the icing or frost the tops. If dipping, let them set on a wire rack, allowing the icing to harden slightly. No matter how you choose to decorate, the result is guaranteed to be delicious.

Each bite of your double strawberry sugar cookies will transport you to a summer garden! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Happy baking!

Variations on Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Add chocolate for a strawberry-chocolate fusion
Want to elevate your double strawberry sugar cookies? Simply fold in some dark or white chocolate chips into the dough. The sweet and slightly tart strawberry flavor complements the rich chocolate perfectly. It's a match made in dessert heaven! If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle melted chocolate on top of the icing for an extra touch of indulgence.

Experiment with other freeze-dried fruits
Why stop at strawberries? Try mixing in other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even mango. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile, creating delightful variations of the double strawberry sugar cookies. Not only will you surprise your taste buds, but you’ll also enjoy a colorful medley that looks as good as it tastes! For more on the benefits of freeze-dried fruits, check out this nutrient guide.

Feel free to let your creativity shine—these cookies are a delicious canvas waiting for your personal touch!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Importance of ingredient temperature

Using room-temperature ingredients is crucial for your double strawberry sugar cookies. It helps the butter cream smoothly with the sugar, creating an airy texture. When your butter is too cold, the dough can become dense. Remember, a smooth dough means cookies that’ll bake evenly and rise beautifully!

How to ensure perfect cookie texture

To achieve that ideal chewy texture, make sure you don’t overbake your cookies. They should be golden around the edges but remain soft in the center when you pull them from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet—this step lets them firm up just right. For more insights on cookie textures, check out King Arthur Baking's guide.

Serving Suggestions for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Perfect pairings with coffee or tea

Indulging in double strawberry sugar cookies is a delight on its own, but pairing them with your favorite coffee or tea elevates the experience. A rich cup of espresso or a soothing chamomile tea highlights the cookie's sweetness and complements the fruity notes beautifully. Consider serving these cookies at your next brunch gathering—friends will love the light and fresh flavor against the warm drink backdrop!

Creative ways to gift or present cookies

Looking for a thoughtful gift? These double strawberry sugar cookies make charming treats for birthdays or holidays! Pack them in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane tied with a vibrant ribbon for a personal touch. Try including tags with a favorite recipe or a heartfelt note. Who wouldn't appreciate such a delightful, homemade surprise? Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also bring joy in presentation! For more gifting ideas, check out this comprehensive guide to cookie gift baskets.

Time Breakdown for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Preparation Time

Get ready for baking with a swift 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the dough. Make sure to have your freeze-dried strawberries processed and your butter softened to streamline the process.

Baking Time

Once you've rolled your dough into those delightful balls, allow 10 minutes in the oven. The scent of these cookies will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Total Time

From sneaking ingredients to enjoying those first gooey bites, you’ll need just 30 minutes to create these irresistible double strawberry sugar cookies. Perfect for a quick treat or a delightful dessert!

Ready to dive in? Check out this post on the benefits of baking for more inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Calories per cookie

Each of our delightful double strawberry sugar cookies packs around 150 calories, making them a sweet indulgence without going overboard. Perfect for satisfying that mid-afternoon craving!

Sugar content

With about 10 grams of sugar per cookie, these treats bring just the right amount of sweetness. It’s always good to balance your dessert choices with healthier options—check out the benefits of fruits like strawberries in your diet.

Key nutrients

These cookies offer more than just sweetness; they're enriched with essential nutrients. Each bite is a source of vitamins and antioxidants from the strawberries, promoting overall health. Enjoying them in moderation can add a cheerful twist to your snack time! For more insights on healthy dessert options, consider visiting trusted sources like the USDA’s nutritional guidelines here.

As you savor these cookies, remember they can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed thoughtfully. Happy baking!

FAQs about Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Can I substitute fresh strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are delightful, they can add extra moisture to your double strawberry sugar cookies, affecting texture. If you prefer a fruity twist, consider using freeze-dried strawberries for a more robust flavor without the excess water. They blend seamlessly into the dough, ensuring a perfectly chewy cookie every time.

How should I store leftover cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This method helps maintain their chewy texture and keeps them from drying out. If you want to extend their life, you can pop them in the fridge for added freshness!

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

If stored properly, your double strawberry sugar cookies will stay fresh for up to five days. For best results, enjoy them within the first few days when they're at their peak flavor. Want to learn more about cookie storage tips? Check out this guide from The Cookie Dough Diaries.

Conclusion on Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

The irresistible allure of homemade cookies is captured perfectly in these delightful double strawberry sugar cookies. With their fresh berry flavor, chewy texture, and creamy icing, they're a treat that will impress friends and family alike. Whether dipped in icing or enjoyed plain, these cookies will surely become a favorite. For more sweet inspirations, explore this collection of cookie recipes.