Introduction
Welcome to a delightful world of sweet treats with these scrumptious strawberry cookies! Bursting with the fresh taste of juicy strawberries and perfectly balanced with a rich buttery flavor, these cookies are sure to be a favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself midweek, these cookies deliver a warm, inviting aroma and a soft, chewy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s get started on making these delicious bites of sunshine!
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 powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
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, ensuring a non-stick surface for your cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a base full of delightful richness.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until everything is beautifully combined and smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—this dry blend will help to create that perfect texture in your cookies.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough without smashing them.
- Using a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one for spreading while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until you see the edges turning a lovely light golden color, releasing that heavenly aroma!
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar right before serving for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation!
Notes or Tips
For an even more intense strawberry flavor, you can add a bit of strawberry puree to the dough. If strawberries aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with freeze-dried strawberries for a different twist! And don’t forget to store your cookies in an airtight container; they stay fresh for several days—if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, make sure to give it enough time—aim for a light, fluffy consistency, as it’s essential for the texture of your cookies. Also, when folding in the strawberries, be gentle to retain their shape and keep the dough airy. Remember, a light touch goes a long way in baking!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before folding them into the dough to prevent excess moisture.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free? You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check the conversion ratios that may vary by brand.
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will be perfect when thawed and enjoyed later.
Conclusion
These strawberry cookies are more than just a snack; they are a sweet reminder of sunny days and cherished moments. With their delightful flavor and soft texture, they make for an ideal dessert or a sweet accompaniment to your morning coffee. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of these strawberry delights!