If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nostalgic treats, you are going to adore this Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine the buttery goodness of classic sugar cookies with a playful twist of pink glaze and crunchy Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs, creating a dessert that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Whether for a special occasion, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because, this recipe brings a burst of sweetness and charm that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but carefully chosen to bring out the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. From the rich butter that gives the cookies their tender crumb to the pop of pink from the food coloring, every element plays its part beautifully.
- 3/4 cup butter, softened: Provides a creamy base for the dough and keeps the cookies tender.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cookies while helping to create a slight crisp edge.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes to enhance the flavor.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie, giving it just the right chew.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for that perfect soft bite.
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar: Used in the luscious glaze that brings the strawberry shortcake vibe to life.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzling consistency.
- Pink food colouring: Gives the glaze that pretty strawberry-inspired tint.
- 1 1/2 cups Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs: Adds delightful texture and authentic strawberry shortcake flavor on top.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking. This small step saves cleanup time and keeps your cookies looking flawless.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture turns creamy and light yellow. This process is important because it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in soft, tender cookies. Then add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that comforting, homey aroma.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. This results in a smooth, balanced dough that’s easy to work with and bakes perfectly every time.
Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Lightly flatten the balls before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes until the edges are just set and the cookies look lightly golden. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Step 5: Make the Pink Glaze
While the cookies cool, mix the confectioner’s sugar and milk together to make a thin, pourable glaze. Divide the glaze into two bowls and add pink food coloring to one, stirring until you get a lovely strawberry-hue that matches the theme perfectly.
Step 6: Decorate with Glaze and Crumbs
Drizzle both the plain and pink glaze over each cookie in beautiful swirls or stripes. While the glaze is still wet, generously sprinkle the Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs over the top. Let the frosting set until dry before handling or serving to keep your cookies picture-perfect.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies look fantastic with a simple garnish like a small fresh strawberry slice or a tiny sprig of mint beside each cookie. You can also use colorful sugar sprinkles or edible glitter to add extra celebration vibes.
Side Dishes
A great pairing for these cookies is a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a more festive presentation, serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to emphasize the strawberry shortcake inspiration.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these cookies with layers of whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a unique mini shortcake-inspired dessert. Alternatively, arrange them artistically on a dessert platter with flowers or colorful napkins to wow your guests at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed tightly will preserve their softness and prevent the glaze from cracking.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies unglazed by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely and then decorate with glaze and crumbs just before serving for the freshest taste and appearance.
Reheating
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you like, you can warm them slightly in a low oven for 3–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the glaze too much and change the cookie texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of frosting for these cookies?
Absolutely! While the pink glaze is classic for this recipe, cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla buttercream also pair wonderfully, offering different textures and flavors to experiment with.
What if I don’t have Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs? What can I use instead?
If you don’t have the crumbs handy, crushed freeze-dried strawberries or even finely chopped nuts can work as a great topping. They will keep that crunchy texture and bring an interesting twist.
How thick should I make the cookies before baking?
Flattening the cookie dough balls slightly before baking helps them bake evenly and prevents them from spreading too thin. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness for the best texture.
Will these cookies hold up for gift-giving?
Definitely! Properly stored in airtight containers, these cookies travel well and make a lovely homemade gift. Just make sure the glaze has fully dried before packing to avoid smudging.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that measures cup-for-cup, you can make these cookies gluten-free. Just be mindful of baking time and texture, as gluten-free flours can behave differently.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a slice of nostalgic joy and sweet smiles to your kitchen, you really must try this Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe. It’s a charming, delicious way to celebrate simple ingredients with a fun, colorful twist. Once you make them, they’ll quickly become a treasured favorite for all occasions!
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Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 32 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these scrumptious Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies, featuring a tender, buttery base topped with a luscious pink glaze and sprinkled with crunchy Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Glaze and Topping
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Pink food colouring
- 1 1/2 cups Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside to ensure the cookies bake evenly without sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is creamy and light yellow in color, indicating it is well aerated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by mixing in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to remove lumps and ensure even distribution. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully incorporated to form a smooth dough.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Portion the dough into small balls using a spoon or cookie scoop. Flatten each ball slightly and arrange them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the edges start turning a light golden color. Remove from oven and transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make Glaze: In a bowl, combine the confectioner’s sugar with milk and stir to make a thin frosting consistency. Divide the glaze into two bowls; tint one portion pink using food coloring to add a lovely visual appeal.
- Decorate Cookies: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Immediately sprinkle the Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs over the glaze while it is still wet to ensure they stick. Allow the glaze to set and dry completely before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overbake the cookies; remove once edges are lightly golden to keep them soft.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more milk or sugar to suit your preference.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, consider adding a few drops of strawberry extract to the glaze.
