Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

Introduction

I recently baked these Strawberry Shortbread Cookies for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The soft, buttery shortbread combined with the bright, fruity flavor of freeze-dried strawberries made them the perfect treat for both kids and adults. I was particularly impressed with how easy the recipe was to follow, and how the glaze added just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the flavor of the strawberries. They were a lovely addition to our dessert spread, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious cookie that will impress your guests, this recipe is definitely one to try.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe

These Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect combination of buttery shortbread and fresh, fruity flavor. The use of freeze-dried strawberries adds a unique twist, giving the cookies a subtle strawberry flavor without making them overly sweet. The creamy glaze adds a finishing touch of sweetness, while the optional strawberry powder decoration on top makes them look as good as they taste. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. They’re light, crunchy, and the strawberry flavor shines through beautifully, making them the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1-ounce package of freeze-dried strawberries
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Strawberry Preparation:
   Begin by placing the freeze-dried strawberries into a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse the berries until they achieve a fine, powdery consistency, resembling that of powdered sugar.
2. Strawberry Powder Allocation:
   Optionally, extract one teaspoon of the strawberry powder and reserve it for inclusion in the glaze. If you prefer a plain glaze, this step may be omitted. The reserved powder adds a burst of color and flavor to the glaze.
3. Dry Ingredient Mixture:
   Transfer the remaining strawberry powder into a medium mixing bowl. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk them together to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
4. Creaming Process:
   In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat these ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about one minute.
5. Dough Formation:
   Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour-strawberry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully combined into a dough.
6. Final Mixing:
   Using a spatula, scrape down the sides of the bowl to reincorporate any stray ingredients, and then mix briefly to eliminate any remaining flour lumps.
7. Dough Chilling:
   Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes to allow it to firm up.
8. Dough Rolling and Cutting:
   Once chilled, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough as desired and arrange the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Additional Chilling:
   Place the prepared baking sheet in the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes to chill the dough further before baking.
10. Baking:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (190°C). Bake the cookies for 15-17 minutes, or until the centers are just set. Be careful not to let them brown too much—look for a slight golden color around the edges.
11. Glaze Preparation:
    While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl. If you’re using the reserved strawberry powder, stir it into the glaze mixture at this point.
12. Decoration:
    Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle them with the prepared glaze or dip them directly into the glaze for a more indulgent finish. If desired, sprinkle additional freeze-dried strawberry crumbs atop the glaze for decoration.
13. Setting:
    Allow the glazed cookies to set completely for about 15 minutes before serving or storing.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories per Serving: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

How to Serve

• For Tea Time: Serve these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat in the afternoon.
• For a Party or Gathering: These strawberry shortbread cookies are perfect for parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings. Their delicate flavor and beautiful glaze make them an impressive and tasty addition to any dessert table.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them as a light snack throughout the day, especially when you’re craving something sweet but not too heavy.
• With Ice Cream or Sorbet: For an indulgent dessert, serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or strawberry sorbet for a refreshing treat.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough Thoroughly: Be sure to chill the dough for both 15 minutes after mixing and before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
2. Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk slightly. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the glaze for a citrusy twist.
3. Use Fresh Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Ensure you’re using fresh freeze-dried strawberries for the best flavor. If they’ve been stored too long, they may lose some of their potency.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This allows for even more flavor development in the dough.
5. Decorating Tip: For a fun variation, use pink or red colored sugar to sprinkle on top of the glaze to add an extra pop of color for special occasions.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?
   Fresh strawberries won’t work well in this recipe, as they contain too much moisture. Freeze-dried strawberries provide the perfect consistency for the cookies.
2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze these cookies?
   Yes, these cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cookies. Butter provides the best flavor and texture.
5. Can I make the cookies smaller?
   Yes, you can make the cookies smaller by cutting the dough into smaller shapes. Just adjust the baking time, as smaller cookies may bake more quickly.
6. How do I store leftover cookies?
   Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
7. Can I add other fruits to the cookies?
   While the recipe is designed for strawberries, you can experiment with other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries to create a different flavor profile.
8. How can I make the glaze more vibrant in color?
   You can add a few drops of food coloring to the glaze to enhance its color. Pink or red food coloring will complement the strawberry flavor beautifully.
9. Can I use a different type of cheese in the dough?
   Ricotta cheese can be used as an alternative to cream cheese for a slightly different texture, but the flavor may vary.
10. Can I make the dough by hand instead of using a mixer?
    Yes, you can mix the dough by hand. Just make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until light and fluffy before adding the dry ingredients.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the fruity sweetness of strawberries. The glaze adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, while the strawberry powder in the dough gives each bite a burst of flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just enjoying a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of delicious, beautiful cookies that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and buttery goodness!

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