Introduction
There’s something truly magical about baking cookies, especially when they are bursting with the fresh flavors of strawberries! These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are not only beautifully soft and chewy, but they also carry the delightful sweetness of strawberries in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, they make a lovely treat to share with friends and family—or to enjoy all by yourself with a good cup of tea!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this will create a delightful base for your cookies.
- Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent for a perfect rise.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing until just combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries, allowing their bright flavor and color to intermingle with the dough, making every bite a burst of summer.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each dollop about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, creating an irresistible, warm scent that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Finally, once cool, dust the top of each cookie with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch that adds both flavor and a bit of visual charm.
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can also use frozen strawberries—just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the dough.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, be sure to beat until the mixture appears pale and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving light and tender cookies. Additionally, when adding the flour, mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tougher cookies. And don’t forget to let your cookies cool before enjoying for the best texture!
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches would work wonderfully in this recipe.
How should I store the cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just thaw before serving!
Conclusion
These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the sweet, fresh flavors of summer, no matter the season. Each bite is soft, sugary, and packed with strawberry goodness, sure to bring joy to anyone you share them with. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the simple pleasure that comes with baking these lovely treats!