Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Bursting with berry flavors and creamy icing, these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience. Perfect for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. With their vibrant color and rich taste, the unique combination of freeze-dried strawberries and cream cheese icing makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Fruity: The use of freeze-dried strawberries infuses every bite with bold strawberry flavor.
• Easy to Bake: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for celebrations, picnics, or a sweet snack at home, they fit every occasion.
• Creamy Icing Delight: The smooth cream cheese icing elevates the cookie experience to new heights.
• Shareable Portions: This recipe yields 20 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Blender
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool helps you achieve a light and fluffy dough effortlessly.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking of your cookies.
• Blender: Using this tool to pulverize freeze-dried strawberries gives you a fine powder essential for flavor.

Ingredients

Bursting with berry flavors and creamy icing, these cookies are perfect for sharing.

For the Cookies

• 3 cups freeze-dried strawberries
• 1 cup salted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/3 cup strawberry jam

For the Icing

• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup hot milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Powder

Using a blender, pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. This will be used in both the cookie dough and the icing.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking while baking.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the salted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, part of the strawberry powder, and kosher salt. Finally, add in the strawberry jam until well combined.

Step 4: Shape and Bake Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes, then lightly tap the baking sheet to flatten each cookie. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

In another bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and remaining strawberry powder. Mix until smooth. If needed, adjust consistency by adding more milk.

Step 6: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, either dip each cookie into the icing or drizzle it over the tops for an elegant finish.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

These delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve these cookies alongside a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The natural sweetness of the berries complements the cookie’s flavors beautifully.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess. This adds a delightful touch and makes for a visually appealing dessert.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite strawberry or vanilla ice cream between two cookies. This fun twist is sure to impress your guests!

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Accompany these cookies with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. The flavors meld perfectly, making for a cozy treat during afternoon tea or after dinner.

Gift Them in Cute Packaging

• Present these cookies as a sweet gift in decorative boxes or bags. It’s a thoughtful gesture for friends and family, especially during holidays or birthdays.

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How to Perfect Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

For the best results when making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and better texture in your cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness around the 8-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping them in icing. This prevents the icing from melting and maintains its beautiful appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
3. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast.
4. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert provides a luxurious touch that pairs well with strawberry flavors.
5. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and sliced strawberries for a healthy side option.
6. Strawberry Smoothie: Blend frozen strawberries with yogurt and milk for a fruity drink that matches perfectly with the cookies.
7. Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized delights echo the creamy aspect of the cookies while offering different textures.
8. Pineapple Salsa: A zesty pineapple salsa adds unexpected flavor and freshness alongside the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies can be fun, but common mistakes can ruin your results. Here are some frequent pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the freeze-dried strawberries: Using fresh strawberries instead will change the texture and flavor. Always opt for freeze-dried strawberries for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can lead to cookies that are too dry or too soggy. Use proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Overmixing the dough: This can make your cookies tough rather than soft and chewy. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Ignoring the chilling time: If you don’t chill the cookie dough, it may spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes for perfect cookies.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: Skipping parchment paper or greasing can cause cookies to stick. Always line your baking sheets to ensure easy removal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure they cool completely before freezing.

Reheating Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Using fresh strawberries won’t give you the same concentrated flavor and texture. Freeze-dried strawberries are essential for this recipe.

How do I achieve soft cookies?

Make sure not to overmix your dough and bake just until edges are lightly golden. Chilling the dough also helps in keeping them soft.

What’s the best way to store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the icing?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like almond or lemon extract to enhance your icing’s taste.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading?

Chill your dough before baking and ensure you’re using enough flour. This helps maintain their shape during baking.

Final Thoughts

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat bursting with berry flavor and creamy icing. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo. Feel free to customize with different jams or icings to suit your taste!