Introduction
When you think of summer treats, nothing quite compares to the delightful taste of fresh strawberries. These Strawberry Cookies celebrate the sweetness of the season with each fluffy bite packed full of vibrant strawberry flavor. Light and airy, with a hint of vanilla, these cookies are perfect for picnics, get-togethers, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea on a sunny afternoon. Get ready to fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, resembling soft clouds.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined for a rich flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries, allowing their juicy goodness to blend throughout the dough.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are cooled, generously dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a sweet finishing touch.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries at their peak freshness—frozen strawberries may release excess moisture and alter the texture. If you prefer a stronger strawberry flavor, feel free to experiment by adding a splash of strawberry extract to the batter. These cookies are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days to maintain their softness.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar properly is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy cookie base. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to a tender texture. When folding in the strawberries, be gentle to avoid breaking them down too much; you want to keep those juicy bits intact for bursts of flavor in every bite!
FAQ
Can I use other types of fruit? Yes! Blueberries or raspberries can be substituted for strawberries if you want to mix things up.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky? If the dough is difficult to manage, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cookies are a sweet celebration of summertime, bringing a touch of sunshine to any gathering. Their light, fluffy texture combined with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries makes them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your taste buds. Enjoy every crumb!