As I sifted through my pantry the other day, a little package of freeze-dried strawberries caught my eye, sparking a delicious idea. These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are inspired by summer’s sweetness, marrying the chewy texture of traditional sugar cookies with the bright flavor of berries. Perfectly soft and inviting, they’re not just easy to whip up but also a delightful treat to please both friends and family alike. With a simple blend of flavors that calls for just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are bound to transform any mundane snack time into a memorable moment. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the magic of baking these delightful strawberry-infused goodies!

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Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is a delightful explosion of strawberry goodness, thanks to the freeze-dried strawberries that enhance the cookie’s sweetness.

Simplicity: With basic pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be whipping up these cookies in no time.

Soft and Chewy: These cookies boast a perfect balance of soft and chewy textures, making them incredibly satisfying to enjoy.

Versatile Treat: Perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon snacks, or even as an indulgent dessert alongside a refreshing drink like Dirty Strawberry Soda.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good cookie, and these will undoubtedly impress friends and family during any occasion!

Treat yourself today to these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies and elevate your baking game!

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Ground into a fine powder for an intense strawberry flavor throughout.
Salted Butter – Use at room temperature for easy creaming with other ingredients.
Granulated Sugar – This ingredient provides sweetness and structure; you can substitute some with a low-calorie sweetener if desired.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent; make sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opting for pure vanilla gives the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookie structure; can easily be replaced with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Soda – A crucial leavening agent, ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; a little can go a long way.
Strawberry Jam – Adds layers of strawberry flavor and ensures the cookies are moist.

For the Icing

Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base for the icing; can be swapped for dairy-free cream cheese for an alternative.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing; adjust the amount based on your desired consistency.
Hot Milk – Gradually added to achieve a smooth icing consistency; adds a lovely sheen to the final product.
Vanilla Extract (Icing) – Just like in the cookies, it enhances the icing flavor; use pure for the best taste.

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not just about sweetness; they’re also about making sweet memories in your kitchen! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature salted butter, granulated sugar, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, a portion of the ground freeze-dried strawberries, and kosher salt. Finally, fold in the strawberry jam for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 2: Shape and Bake
Once your dough is well-combined, roll it into balls using about one tablespoon per cookie. Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then gently tap the baking sheet to flatten each cookie slightly. Continue baking for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and set.

Step 3: Make the Icing
While your cookies cool, prepare the delicious icing. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, pure vanilla extract, and the remaining ground freeze-dried strawberries. Mix well, adjusting the icing consistency with more hot milk or powdered sugar as needed. You want it to be smooth enough for dipping or drizzling over your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

Step 4: Decorate
Once the cookies have completely cooled, it’s time to decorate! Dip the tops of each cookie into the creamy icing or drizzle it generously over the cookies for a delightful finishing touch. Allow the icing to set before enjoying these scrumptious Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies with family and friends, making your gatherings even sweeter!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a sweet treat on hand! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply roll the dough into balls before chilling, and to maintain the best texture, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, arrange the balls on a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions, adding a couple of minutes if baking from chilled dough. For icing, prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator; just re-whip before drizzling over the cookies when they’re cooled. Enjoy these delightful cookies with minimal effort, thanks to your thoughtful meal prep!

How to Store and Freeze Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to store them longer, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, but note that chilling may slightly alter their texture.

Freezer: Freeze un-iced cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating: If desired, warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for that fresh-baked feel. Remember to ice your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies just before serving for the best taste!

Expert Tips for Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

• Dough Consistency: Ensure your strawberries are properly freeze-dried and ground to avoid sogginess in the cookie dough.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs to help create a light and fluffy texture in your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

• Icing Thickness: Adjust the icing thickness by adding hot milk or powdered sugar gradually; you want it smooth but not too runny.

• Baking Time: Watch your cookies closely toward the end; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center to maintain chewiness.

• Cooling Properly: Allow cookies to cool completely before icing to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful presentation.

What to Serve with Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to a world of flavors that complement their fruity sweetness perfectly.

Refreshing Lemonade: The tangy zest of lemonade cuts through the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Fluffy Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the chewiness of the cookie.
Minty Fresh Iced Tea: The coolness of iced tea, especially with a hint of mint, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich strawberry goodness.
Smooth Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s a timeless delight.
Berry Salad: A mix of fresh berries tossed with a light vinaigrette enhances the strawberry flavor and adds a vibrant splash of color to your table.
Chilled Rosé Wine: The fruity notes of a chilled rosé can elevate your cookie experience, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over your cookies for a contrasting rich flavor that will wow your taste buds.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet bites add a wonderful coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee rounds out the experience, enhancing the berry flavors and keeping you cozy.

Let your imagination run wild as you explore these pairings that enhance the warmth of your homemade treats!

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to elevate your cookies with these delicious twists that will make your baking experience even more exciting!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive guests. They’ll be just as tasty!
Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese icing with a vegan cream cheese alternative, keeping the flavor rich without dairy. Perfect for everyone!
Mixed Berries: Use freeze-dried blueberries or raspberries along with strawberries for a delightful mixed-berry cookie that’s bursting with flavor. Each bite will be a new adventure.
Citrus Zest: Add a pinch of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus kick that beautifully complements the strawberry flavor. It’s a subtle but uplifting twist!
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie texture. You won’t be able to resist!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent touch that adds a sweet, luxurious element to each bite. It’s like giving your cookies a decadent makeover!
Strawberry Icing: Instead of vanilla, use strawberry extract in your icing for an intense berry flavor that enhances the overall strawberry experience. A must-try for berry lovers!
Savory Twist: Experiment with a pinch of sea salt on top of the icing to balance the sweetness, offering a sophisticated, gourmet touch. It’s all about that sweet-savory contrast!

Don’t forget to enjoy these cookies alongside delightful treats like a Strawberry Dirty Sprite or some delicious Sugar Cookie Truffles to round out your sweet experience!

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Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How should I select my freeze-dried strawberries?
Always look for high-quality freeze-dried strawberries that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots. The berries should be crunchy and have a strong aroma of natural strawberry. If you can, taste a piece to ensure they’re flavorful!

How should I store my Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method will keep them soft and chewy. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can also be refrigerated for up to a week, but note that chilling might alter their chewy texture slightly.

Can I freeze Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze un-iced cookies, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-baked feel once thawed.

What if my cookie dough feels too sticky?
If your dough is sticky and hard to roll, it may be due to the heat in your kitchen or the moisture from your ingredients. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping into balls. Also, ensure that your freeze-dried strawberries are ground finely, which helps retain the right dough consistency.

Are these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies can easily accommodate various dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, and feel free to switch to dairy-free cream cheese in the icing for a dairy-free option. Just be sure to check labels for potential allergens in all the ingredients you choose.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
While it’s better to stick with freeze-dried strawberries for this recipe since they provide concentrated flavor without adding moisture, you could use fresh strawberries. If you opt for fresh, make sure to chop them finely and adjust the amount of wet ingredients slightly to avoid a soggy dough.