Name: Strawberry Cookies Recipe: Soft and Fruity
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (finely crushed); 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional); Optional: Fresh strawberry slices (powdered sugar); Suggested Pairings: Milk (herbal tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Strawberry Cookies are a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for tea parties, gatherings, or personal enjoyment. These soft, chewy cookies, bursting with the vibrant flavor of freeze-dried strawberries, deliver a sweet, fruity taste in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic plate, garnished with fresh strawberry slices or a dusting of powdered sugar, these Strawberry Cookies offer a delicate, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a classic version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home bakers seeking a colorful, crowd-pleasing treat that brings summery charm to any moment.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Cookies:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed (about 1 oz)
1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh strawberry slices, powdered sugar dusting
Suggested Pairings: Milk, herbal tea, fresh berries
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic plate
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula, measuring cups/spoons, food processor or rolling pin (for crushing strawberries)

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add egg and vanilla extract, beating on low until combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low until just combined. Fold in crushed freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips (if using) with a spatula.
Taste and Adjust: Taste a small piece of dough and adjust with additional sugar (for sweetness) or a pinch of salt (for balance) to ensure a balanced flavor.
Chill and Bake: Chill dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Serve: Arrange cookies on a white ceramic plate. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve with milk, herbal tea, or fresh berries.

Tips for Better Strawberry Cookies

Use freeze-dried strawberries for intense flavor without excess moisture; crush finely for even distribution.
Taste the dough before chilling to balance sweetness and fruitiness; adjust with sugar or salt.
Chill dough to prevent excessive spreading and enhance texture.
Use softened (not melted) butter for a soft, chewy cookie; leave at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.
Use a white ceramic plate for a delicate presentation, highlighting the pink-hued cookies and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate or freeze for up to 1 month.
For softer cookies, slightly underbake (9–10 minutes); for crisper cookies, bake 12–13 minutes.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic plate with strawberry slices or powdered sugar for a summery, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Strawberry Cookies: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure white chocolate chips are gluten-free.
Vegan Strawberry Cookies: Replace butter with vegan margarine, egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and use vegan white chocolate chips.
Low-Sugar Strawberry Cookies: Reduce granulated sugar to 1/3 cup and brown sugar to 2 tbsp; add stevia to taste.
Strawberry Lemon Cookies: Add 1 tsp lemon zest and 1 tbsp lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Chocolate Strawberry Cookies: Replace white chocolate chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Strawberry Oat Cookies: Add 1/4 cup rolled oats and reduce flour to 1 1/4 cups for a heartier texture.
Nutty Strawberry Cookies: Add 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans for crunch.
Strawberry Cream Cookies: Sandwich cookies with a cream cheese frosting filling (4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla).

Storage and Serving Tips

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for 1 week.
Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw dough in the fridge before baking or cookies at room temperature.
Serve at room temperature for the best soft, chewy texture.
Use as a dessert, snack, or tea party treat.
Pair with milk or herbal tea to complement the sweet, fruity flavor.
Presented on a white ceramic plate with vibrant garnishes for a delicate, appetizing charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 24 servings (1 cookie each):

Calories: 110 kcal
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 65mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 2% Daily Value
Iron: 3% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options may lower cholesterol). Moderate in sugar; try the low-sugar variation. Enjoy in moderation.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cookies recipe offers a soft, fruity treat perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into a summery classic. Its quick preparation and delicate presentation make it a favorite. The chewy texture and vibrant strawberry flavor delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its colorful, crowd-pleasing appeal.