Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 78 min
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp. cream cheese, softened; 3 Tbsp. confectioners' sugar; 1 Zest of lemon; Cooking spray; 3/4 cup chopped strawberries; 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup granulated sugar ((100 g.) plus 1 Tbsp.); 2 cups all-purpose flour ((240 g.)); 1/2 tsp. baking powder; 1/4 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened ((1 stick)); 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar ((53 g.)); 1 large egg; 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract; 1 Tbsp. sparkling sugar ((optional))

Introduction to Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

When it comes to delectable desserts, strawberry shortcake cookies are truly a game-changer. These delightful treats merge the classic flavor of strawberry shortcake with the fun and convenience of cookies, making them a must-try for anyone who loves baking—or simply indulging in delicious snacks. With layers of sweet cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries nestled between soft, flavorful cookies, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.

What sets strawberry shortcake cookies apart from your average cookie? First, they feature a creamy filling that adds an unexpected burst of flavor and makes each bite genuinely satisfying. The tangy lemon zest balances out the sweetness, while the freshness of strawberries brings a seasonal touch to your dessert table. For those interested in the baking science, this combination not only works well together in taste but also in texture, providing a satisfying chew with every bite.

Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic or satisfying a late-night craving, these cookies make for a crowd-pleasing option that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re an excellent way to showcase strawberries when they're in season! Find more tips on baking with strawberries here.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Creating the perfect strawberry shortcake cookies requires a delightful combination of filling and cookie ingredients. Let’s break them down for you:

Filling Ingredients

To achieve a luscious filling for your cookies, you'll need:

4 Tbsp. cream cheese, softened: This brings a rich, creamy texture.
3 Tbsp. confectioners' sugar: Sweetness is key, and this ingredient gives the right level of sweetness without being overly sugary.
Zest of 1 lemon: The zest adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Cookie Ingredients

For the cookies themselves, gather the following:

Cooking spray: A quick, easy way to prevent sticking.
¾ cup chopped strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries are essential for that vibrant flavor.
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice: Enhances the berry flavor and adds brightness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your cookies, providing structure.
½ tsp. baking powder: For a bit of lift.
¼ tsp. kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moisture to the cookies.
¼ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract: For that classic cookie aroma.
1 Tbsp. sparkling sugar (optional): For a little extra sparkle and crunch on top.

These strawberry shortcake cookies capture the essence of summer in every bite. For more tips on ingredient selection, check out this guide. Happy baking!

Preparing Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Making strawberry shortcake cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding process, and I can’t wait to walk you through each step. These delicious treats combine the luscious flavors of strawberries, creamy filling, and buttery cookies, making them perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details!

Prepare the Filling

To start, you’ll want to get the filling ready, which will have your guests asking for seconds! Grab a medium bowl and mix together:

4 tablespoons of softened cream cheese
3 tablespoons of confectioners' sugar
Zest of 1 lemon

Blend these until smooth and creamy. Once your mixture is ready, scoop out 12 small balls, about 1½ teaspoons each, and place them on a lined baking sheet or plate. These will be the delightful surprises inside your cookies. Pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes until they're solid.

Prepare the Cookie Dough

Now it’s time for the cookie dough! Begin by lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly greasing them with cooking spray. In a small bowl, combine:

¾ cup chopped strawberries
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar

Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to blend, then drain off any excess liquid. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

In a large mixing bowl, using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, cream together:

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, then incorporate the egg and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the flour mixture and the prepared strawberries until just combined.

Assemble the Cookies

This is where the magic begins! With a medium cookie scoop (or a tablespoon), scoop heaping tablespoons of dough — you’ll make around 24 balls. Flatten each ball into a pancake-like circle. Take one of your frozen cream cheese balls and place it on top of 12 of those flattened dough pieces. Cover each filling with another piece of dough, pinching the edges together to seal. Gently roll them into smooth balls.

Freeze and Shape the Cookies

Arrange your stuffed cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you like a bit of sparkle, sprinkle with sparkling sugar, and then freeze the cookie balls for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain their shape during baking.

Bake the Cookies

Finally, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange a rack in the center and bake your strawberry shortcake cookies until they’re set and lightly golden around the edges, which usually takes about 18 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them; you want that perfect balance of soft and chewy.

There you have it! Each step brings your delightful strawberry shortcake cookies to life. Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or savoring them as a treat just for you! For more delicious ideas, consider checking out resources such as Joy of Baking for inspiration.

Variations on Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

If you're a fan of chocolate, why not elevate your strawberry shortcake cookies with a cocoa twist? Simply replace ¼ cup of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder, giving your cookies a delightful chocolatey flavor. Pairing this with the fresh strawberries and creamy filling creates a dreamy combination you won’t want to miss. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for an extra indulgence.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

For those seeking a gluten-free option, swapping regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend is an easy fix. Be sure to check the blend for the right ratios and ingredients to ensure your strawberry shortcake cookies come out perfectly. This adaptation allows everyone to enjoy a slice of summer goodness without any dietary restrictions holding them back. You can find great options at health food stores or online to suit your needs!

Feel free to get creative with these suggestions. Can you imagine the possibilities?

Baking notes for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Tips for achieving the perfect bake

To ensure your strawberry shortcake cookies turn out beautifully, here are some helpful tips:

Chill Your Dough: After forming the cookie balls with the cream cheese filling, chilling them for about 30 minutes helps maintain their shape while baking.
Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven to 350°F before baking to ensure even cooking. An oven thermometer can help guarantee the right temperature.
Lightly Pack Ingredients: When measuring flour, avoid packing it into the cup. Use a spoon to scoop it in and level it off for best results.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your dough, mix until just incorporated to keep your cookies light and tender.

Experiment with these tips and enjoy the delightful burst of strawberries and cream in each bite! For more baking basics, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or The Kitchn.

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Ideal pairings with beverages

When it comes to enjoying your strawberry shortcake cookies, the right beverage can elevate your experience. Consider pairing them with:

Iced tea: A refreshing, lightly-sweetened lemon iced tea complements the cookie's fruity flavors.
Sparkling water: The fizz adds a fun twist, especially if you infuse it with mint or citrus.
Coffee or cold brew: The rich notes of coffee serve as an excellent contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

These combinations create a delightful balance that enhances the overall tasting experience.

Presentation ideas for gatherings

Impress your guests with these simple yet effective presentation ideas:

Serving platter: Arrange the cookies on a colorful serving platter, garnished with whole strawberries and mint leaves for a vibrant touch.
Individual servings: Place cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with twine for an adorable party favor.
Dessert bar: Feature your cookies alongside toppings like whipped cream, additional fresh strawberries, and chocolate sauce, allowing guests to create their own unique treats.

These charming presentations not only make for an Instagram-worthy display but also encourage interaction among guests.

For more ideas, check out Food Network's entertaining tips and enhance your next gathering!

Tips for Making Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Common pitfalls to avoid

When baking strawberry shortcake cookies, take care not to overmix the dough after adding the flour; this can lead to tough cookies. Also, ensure you drain the strawberries well to prevent excess moisture, which can cause soggy cookies. Finally, don’t skip freezing the cream cheese filling; it’s crucial for achieving a delightful, creamy center!

Storage tips for freshness

To keep your strawberry shortcake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for about a month! For more tips on storage, check out trusted resources like FoodSafety.gov.

Time Details for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Preparation time

Get ready for a sweet adventure! You’ll need about 40 minutes to prepare your delicious strawberry shortcake cookies. This includes making the creamy filling and mixing up the cookie dough.

Baking time

Baking these scrumptious cookies takes approximately 18 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as they rise and become golden brown.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including freezing time. It’s a small investment for a delightful treat that will impress friends and family alike!

For more tips on baking cookies, check out this baking guide! Who knew baking could be so rewarding? Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Calories

Each of these delightful strawberry shortcake cookies contains approximately 150 calories. This makes them a sweet treat that won’t completely derail your healthy eating plan, especially if enjoyed in moderation.

Dietary Considerations

These cookies are not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed. For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a sugar alternative for the filling and dough. Always check the ingredients of your cream cheese to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

For a little extra insight on making healthier dessert swaps, you might want to explore Healthline's article on sugar alternatives. Balancing indulgence with health is key, and these cookies can fit nicely into a varied diet when made thoughtfully!

FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! While fresh strawberries give a delightful flavor and texture, using frozen strawberries is a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps to keep your strawberry shortcake cookies from becoming too soggy. For added sweetness, consider adjusting the sugar in the recipe slightly!

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your strawberry shortcake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need longer storage, refrigerate them for about a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

What can I serve with strawberry shortcake cookies?

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your dessert experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh mint leaves can also add a nice touch! Want to take it up a notch? Pair them with a refreshing herbal iced tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.

Conclusion on Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Why you should try making these cookies today!

Strawberry shortcake cookies are not just a dessert; they're a delightful experience that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With their creamy filling and fruity flavors, these cookies make for a perfect treat to share with friends or enjoy during a cozy evening at home. Plus, who can resist the delicious combo of strawberries and cream? Give this recipe a try today, and indulge in the deliciousness!

For more dessert inspiration, explore this lovely collection of cookie recipes and elevate your baking game!