Name: Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: About 30 cookies
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ½ cup (15-20g) freeze-dried strawberries, pulverized; Optional: 1-2 drops red or pink gel food coloring (for cookie dough); 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered (for glaze); 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted; 1-3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream; ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for glaze); Optional: A tiny pinch of salt (for glaze); Optional: Fresh strawberry slices/dices or extra freeze-dried strawberry powder (for garnish)

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they are a delightful celebration of vibrant flavor and joyful simplicity. Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, chewy cookie, immediately greeted by an intense burst of sweet, tangy strawberry, amplified by not one, but two forms of this beloved berry. This recipe takes the cherished classic sugar cookie and elevates it, infusing every crumb with the irresistible essence of summer. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brightens any occasion with its cheerful color and unforgettable taste.

The humble sugar cookie has long been a staple in kitchens worldwide, synonymous with comfort, celebration, and the simple pleasures of home baking. We’re building upon that beloved foundation, creating a dish that truly stands out. Our Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies offer an unparalleled taste experience because they masterfully blend the nostalgic sweetness of a classic sugar cookie with the refreshing zest of real strawberries, ensuring a depth of flavor that is truly captivating. People adore this dish not only for its stunning visual appeal and beautiful pink hue but also for its exceptional texture—crisp at the edges, soft in the center, and wonderfully chewy throughout. They’re a perfect fusion of gourmet taste and approachable home baking, promising to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

For the Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (about 15-20g) freeze-dried strawberries, pulverized into a fine powder
- Optional: 1-2 drops red or pink gel food coloring for a more vibrant cookie color
For the Fresh Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup (about 150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1-3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream, as needed for consistency
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: A tiny pinch of salt to balance sweetness
- Optional: 1-2 drops red or pink gel food coloring for a more intense glaze color
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh strawberry slices or small dices
- A light dusting of extra freeze-dried strawberry powder

Preparing Your Strawberry Elements:

Before we dive into mixing our cookie dough, let’s get our two distinct strawberry components ready. This is what truly earns these treats their name: Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies. Starting with these elements ensures you have everything on hand when the time comes to combine them, making the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.

Prepare the Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder: Carefully measure out your ½ cup of freeze-dried strawberries. Transfer them into a food processor or a high-speed blender. Process on high until they are pulverized into a very fine, vibrant powder. You want it as smooth as possible, without any large chunks, as this powder will be incorporated directly into our cookie dough, lending both flavor and a beautiful natural pink hue. Once powdered, set it aside in a small, airtight container. If you don’t use it immediately, it can clump, so keep it sealed. This step is crucial for the concentrated strawberry flavor in the cookie itself.
Prepare the Fresh Strawberry Puree for Glaze: Take your 1 cup of fresh, hulled, and quartered strawberries. Place them in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the strawberries have softened significantly and released their juices. They should be very tender. Remove from heat and, using an immersion blender, carefully blend the strawberries directly in the saucepan until completely smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer them to a regular blender or food processor and blend until pureed. Once pureed, push the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, using the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid and pulp as possible, leaving behind any seeds or larger fibrous pieces. This step gives us a silky-smooth, intensely flavored strawberry essence for our glaze. Allow this fresh strawberry puree to cool completely before using it in the glaze. This cooling step is important because warm puree can affect the consistency of your powdered sugar glaze, potentially making it too thin or clumpy. You can even pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process.

Crafting the Cookie Dough:

Now that our strawberry stars are prepped, it’s time to bring our Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies dough to life. Precision and patience are key here, so let’s walk through each step carefully to ensure a perfect texture and flavor.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together your 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk thoroughly for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This is a simple but important step that prevents pockets of unmixed ingredients in your final cookies. Set this bowl aside for a moment.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl with an electric hand mixer, cream together your 1 cup (226g) of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups (300g) of granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. You want the mixture to become light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which is crucial for the tender texture of our sugar cookies. Don’t skimp on this step!
Add Egg and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add your 1 large egg, making sure it’s at room temperature for better incorporation. Beat just until the egg is fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Once again, scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture might look slightly curdled at this point, but don’t worry, it will come together.
Incorporate Strawberry Powder and Optional Coloring: Now for the star flavor! Add your previously prepared freeze-dried strawberry powder to the wet mixture. If you desire a more intense pink color for your cookies, add 1-2 drops of red or pink gel food coloring at this stage. Mix on low speed until the strawberry powder and coloring (if using) are evenly distributed, creating a beautifully uniform pink dough.
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on the lowest speed, gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, about a third at a time. Mix only until just combined. As soon as you see no more streaks of flour, stop mixing. Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in tough, dry cookies instead of the soft, tender Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies we’re aiming for. A few small streaks of flour are perfectly fine, as they will disappear during the brief kneading step.
Form and Chill the Dough: Gather the cookie dough into a large ball. Divide it in half. Flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough is an absolutely critical step for several reasons: it allows the butter to firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven; it gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully; and it makes the dough much easier to handle, roll out, and cut. You can even chill the dough overnight if you prefer, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling if it’s too firm directly from the fridge.

Chilling and Rolling the Cookies:

Patience, my friends, is a virtue, especially when it comes to excellent sugar cookies. The chilling period is non-negotiable for achieving that perfect shape and texture for our Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

Prepare for Rolling: Once your dough is sufficiently chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line several baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent sticking and help with even baking.
Roll Out the Dough: Take one disc of chilled dough from the refrigerator. Lightly flour your work surface, your rolling pin, and the top of the dough. This prevents sticking, which can be frustrating. Roll out the dough evenly to a thickness of about ¼ inch. Aim for consistent thickness across the entire sheet of dough for even baking. If the dough starts to become too warm and sticky, don’t hesitate to pop it back into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up again. Work quickly but gently.
Cut Out Shapes: Using your favorite cookie cutters (hearts, circles, or even classic fluted edges work wonderfully for these delightful Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies), cut out your shapes. Dip your cookie cutter in flour between each cut to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1-inch space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading. Gather any dough scraps, gently press them together, re-roll, and cut out more cookies until all the dough is used. Try not to overwork the scraps too much, as this can make the cookies tough.

Baking the Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies:

The moment of truth! Baking these beauties just right ensures they are perfectly tender and slightly chewy, with that irresistible strawberry aroma filling your kitchen.

Bake the Cookies: Bake one sheet at a time in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and very lightly golden. The centers should still look soft and slightly puffy. For a truly soft cookie, you don’t want to bake them until they are deeply browned. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Cooling Process: Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before you move them. After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s absolutely essential that the cookies are completely cool before you attempt to glaze them; otherwise, your beautiful glaze will melt and run off.

Whipping Up the Strawberry Glaze:

This glaze is the crowning glory for our Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies, adding another layer of fresh strawberry flavor and a lovely sheen. It’s simple to make, but getting the consistency just right is key.

Prepare the Glaze Base: In a medium bowl, combine your 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar with your completely cooled fresh strawberry puree, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the optional tiny pinch of salt.
Adjust Consistency: Start by adding 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream. Whisk vigorously until smooth. The goal is a glaze that is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add more milk or cream, ½ teaspoon at a time, whisking well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. If it accidentally becomes too thin, you can add a little more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens up.
Add Optional Color: If you want an even more vibrant pink glaze, now is the time to add 1-2 drops of red or pink gel food coloring. Mix well to achieve a uniform color.

Decorating and Finishing Touches:

The final step in creating these magnificent Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies! This is where they truly become works of art, ready to be devoured.

Glaze the Cooled Cookies: Once your cookies are completely cool and your glaze is ready, it’s time to decorate! You can dip the tops of each cookie directly into the glaze, or use a small spoon or offset spatula to spread a thin, even layer of glaze over the top of each cookie. For a cleaner look, you can carefully wipe any excess glaze from the edges.
Garnish (Optional): While the glaze is still wet, if you wish to garnish, gently place a small fresh strawberry slice, a few tiny fresh strawberry dices, or a light dusting of extra freeze-dried strawberry powder on top of each cookie. This adds an extra burst of freshness and visual appeal to your already stunning Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
Allow Glaze to Set: Transfer the glazed cookies back to the wire rack. Allow the glaze to set completely, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the humidity in your kitchen and the thickness of your glaze. Once set, the glaze will be firm to the touch, and your cookies will be ready to serve.
Storage: Store your finished Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If stacking, it’s a good idea to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. These delightful cookies also freeze wonderfully, unglazed, for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and glaze when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, dear bakers! We’ve journeyed through the delightful process of creating what I truly believe are some of the most captivating and flavorful cookies you’ll ever bake. This isn’t just another sugar cookie recipe; it’s an invitation to experience a burst of summery joy, a vibrant hue, and an unforgettable sweet-tart flavor that truly sets it apart. The reason I champion these cookies so enthusiastically is simple: they deliver on every front. From their absolutely stunning pink color, which is achieved naturally from the fresh strawberries, to their wonderfully soft, chewy texture, these treats are designed to impress both the eyes and the palate. They strike that perfect balance between sweetness and a subtle tang, making each bite an exhilarating experience. It’s the kind of cookie that evokes smiles, sparks conversations, and quite frankly, disappears from the plate far too quickly. They’re surprisingly straightforward to make, meaning even if you’re a novice baker, you’ll find immense satisfaction in producing such a professional-looking and tasting result. For me, the magic lies in that wonderful synergy of fresh fruit flavor infused into a classic cookie, elevating it to something truly special.

Elevate Your Cookie Experience: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking these beauties, let’s talk about how to truly make them shine or how to put your own creative spin on them. While these cookies are absolutely phenomenal on their own, perhaps with a simple glass of milk or a comforting cup of tea, there are so many ways to enjoy and customize them. Imagine serving them alongside a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream; the cool creaminess combined with the soft, fruity cookie is an absolute dream. For a slightly more sophisticated dessert, you could arrange a few on a plate with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint – a visual and culinary delight. Thinking about a brunch spread? These cookies would be an exquisite addition, offering a pop of color and a fresh flavor profile amidst your savory offerings.

But let’s not stop there with serving! The beauty of these cookies also lies in their versatility for variations. While the star of the show is undeniably the strawberry, you could experiment with other berry purees for a seasonal twist. Think raspberry for a more tart bite or even a mix of berries for a “berry patch” cookie. For an extra layer of decadence, consider adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the dough before baking; the creamy sweetness of white chocolate pairs heavenly with the strawberries. A touch of lemon zest mixed into the dough can brighten the flavors even further, adding an unexpected citrusy note that complements the berries beautifully. Or, for those who love a bit of crunch, finely chopped pistachios or walnuts could be folded in. These cookies also make absolutely charming homemade gifts. Stack a few in a pretty box, tie it with a ribbon, and you have a thoughtful, delicious present that truly speaks from the heart. They’re perfect for school bake sales, office potlucks, or simply to brighten a neighbor’s day. Their vibrant color makes them a festive addition to any celebration, be it a birthday party, a bridal shower, or just a casual get-together with friends and family.

Your Invitation to Bake & Share!

So, what are you waiting for? My friends, I genuinely hope I’ve convinced you that these are not just any cookies; these are the Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies that will become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Don’t just take my word for it – roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and experience the joy of baking them for yourself. There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into something so utterly delicious and beautiful. The aroma filling your kitchen as they bake is a reward in itself, a promise of the delightful treats to come. I absolutely adore hearing about your baking adventures and seeing your incredible creations. Once you’ve whipped up a batch, please don’t be shy! I would be thrilled if you shared your experience. Did you add a twist? What did your family and friends think? Did they disappear as quickly as mine always do? Your feedback, your photos, and your stories truly make this baking community vibrant and inspiring. It encourages all of us to keep trying new things and sharing the joy of homemade goodness. So, go forth, bake with passion, and let the delightful taste of these vibrant strawberry cookies brighten your day!