Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar

Imagine a sunny afternoon, the soft breeze whispering through an open window, carrying the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies. Welcome to the world of Strawberry Sugar Cookies, a treat that combines the lightness of sugar cookies with the delightful burst of strawberry flavor. With each bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance between sweetness and fruity goodness, creating a joyful moment that lingers long after the last crumb is gone. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a family gathering or simply want to indulge yourself during a cozy morning, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

These Strawberry Sugar Cookies envelop your senses in a delightful embrace. The inviting aroma of vanilla and fresh strawberries fills your kitchen as they bake, making it impossible to resist peeking at the oven. Once they emerge, the cookies have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that perfectly complements the sweet, fruity taste of strawberries. The sparkling strawberry sugar topping adds a playful crunch, making them not just a treat for your palate but a feast for your eyes as well.

These cookies are ideal for a variety of occasions. Enjoy them on a lazy weekend morning paired with a steaming cup of coffee, or serve them at family gatherings, birthdays, or picnics. They’re an excellent choice for sweetening up a weekday lunch or as a special thank-you gift for loved ones. Their vibrant color and delightful flavor will surely brighten any moment.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1 cookie):

Calories: 130
Protein: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 50mg

(Nutrition information is provided as a general guide and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. This information is verified by sources like the USDA FoodData Central.)

Why Make This Recipe

Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar are a delightful blend of taste, aroma, and appearance. The subtle flavor of strawberries paired with the sweet crunch of sparkling sugar makes these cookies a winner for both children and adults. They’re easy to make and require only simple ingredients, making it a perfect weekend project or a last-minute addition to any gathering.

How to Make Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sparkling sugar)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Add the strawberry puree and mix until incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure soft cookies.
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Sprinkle each cookie generously with sparkling strawberry sugar.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look soft; they will firm up as they cool.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking Tips

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for optimal texture.
Use fresh strawberries for the puree to capture the best flavor.
For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.

How to Serve

These delightful cookies are perfect as-is, showcasing their beautiful strawberry hue and sparkling sugar. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee to elevate your afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with butter or a drizzle of honey for a more decadent experience.

How to Store

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last up to three months.

Expert Tips

For a chewier texture, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Test for doneness by lightly pressing the edge of a cookie; if it springs back, they are ready!

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before pureeing.

What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days or freeze it for up to three months.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar are not just delicious; they capture the essence of summer in every bite. Easy to make and delightful to enjoy, they are perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations—happy baking!