Introduction

Strawberries bring an irresistible sweetness when incorporated into baked goods, and these Sweet Strawberry Sugar Cookies are no exception. With their tender texture and delightful strawberry flavor, they make for a charming treat at gatherings or on a quiet afternoon at home.

Combining classic sugar cookie elements with fresh strawberries elevates this cookie recipe into something memorable. Each bite delivers a burst of fruity goodness alongside the buttery sweetness that sugar cookies are known for.

These cookies are easy to make and perfect for all skill levels in the kitchen. Get ready to delight your friends and family with these delectable little morsels that look as wonderful as they taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  The foundation of your cookies, all-purpose flour provides structure and stability. It helps to form the dough and gives the cookies their desirable texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
  This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture. It activates when it comes into contact with moisture and heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  Baking soda helps to create a tender crumb in cookies, contributing to their fluffy rise. It activates when paired with acidic ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  Salt enhances the flavors of the cookies, balancing sweetness and enriching the overall taste.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  Butter adds richness and flavor to cookies. Softened butter ensures it's easier to cream with sugar, leading to a better texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  Sugar not only sweetens the cookies but also helps to achieve a chewy texture. It caramelizes during baking, contributing to the cookies’ color.
• 1 large egg
  Eggs bind the ingredients together, contributing to the structure and richness of the cookies. The proteins in eggs help with leavening.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Vanilla extract adds depth and an aromatic sweetness to cookies, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
  Strawberries infuse the cookies with a sweet and tangy flavor, adding moisture and a pop of color. Fresh fruit elevates these cookies into a delightful experience.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  This sugar adds a finishing touch, giving the cookies a beautiful appearance and subtle sweetness without being overpowering.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is a crucial first step for ensuring consistent baking. A properly preheated oven creates the perfect environment for the cookies to rise and develop a golden color.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures they are evenly combined, which helps with consistent cookie texture and prevents clumping. This step is essential for uniform rising during baking.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Creaming integrates air into the butter, which is essential for a light texture. This step also allows the sugar to dissolve partially, contributing to the overall softness of the cookies.

Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.

Incorporating the egg and vanilla brings moisture and flavor to the mix. Ensure the mixture is smooth, which will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Over-mixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until no flour streaks remain, allowing for a tender cookie.

Step 6: Gently fold in the diced strawberries.

Folding in the strawberries ensures they are distributed evenly throughout the dough without mashing them. This will result in delightful bursts of fruity flavor in each bite.

Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon helps in creating uniform-sized cookies, ensuring even baking. Leave enough space between each dough ball for spreading during baking.

Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on the cookies. The goal is a slight golden edge while the centers remain soft. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies that lack the desired chewy texture.

Step 9: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooling on the baking sheet helps the cookies to set before being moved. This step prevents them from breaking apart while transferring.

Step 10: Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Dusting with powdered sugar adds a decorative touch and a hint of sweetness. This final step is optional but elevates the presentation of your cookies.

Flavor Variations to Explore

If you're feeling creative, consider mixing in complementary flavors to tailor these cookies to your preference. A hint of almond extract can enhance the almond-like notes of strawberries, while lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness. Feel free to experiment with different fruit purees or chocolate chips for a delightful twist.

Perfect Pairings with Strawberry Cookies

These Sweet Strawberry Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve them alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea or milk for a simple delight. For added decadence, pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning them into a delightful dessert.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, remember a few crucial baking tips. Always measure your flour accurately, as too much can lead to tough cookies. Be mindful of the temperature of your ingredients; room temperature butter and eggs blend seamlessly. Lastly, avoid overbaking for the perfect soft and chewy result.

FAQs

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How can I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges appear set and are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. They will firm up while cooling.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; however, make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

Why did my cookies turn out too flat?

If your cookies flatten out too much, it may be due to overly warm butter. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and perhaps chill the dough for a bit before baking.

Is it possible to make these cookies using coconut sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, but note that the cookies may have a darker color and a different flavor profile.

What if I want to make larger cookies?

To make larger cookies, scoop about two tablespoons of dough for each cookie and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes until golden.

Conclusion

Making Sweet Strawberry Sugar Cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the fruity flavors of the season while indulging in a classic treat. Whether you make them for special occasions or as an everyday snack, these cookies are sure to please.

With their tender crumb and refreshing strawberry notes, they are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts!

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.