Name: Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry Sugar Cookies bring a burst of fruity sweetness to your baking routine with their delicate pink hue and tender bite. If you love a classic sugar cookie but crave something brighter and more seasonal, this recipe delivers. These cookies combine buttery richness with real strawberry flavor for a bakery-style treat you can make at home. Even better, they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy schedules, celebrations, or simple afternoon cravings. With straightforward steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can bake a batch of these irresistible cookies in just over half an hour.

Story

The first time I baked Strawberry Sugar Cookies, I wanted something that felt cheerful and fresh without requiring complicated steps. Traditional sugar cookies always satisfy, yet I wanted a fruit-forward twist that still held that soft, buttery center. That is when I discovered how freeze-dried strawberry powder transforms a simple dough into a vibrant strawberry flavored dessert with natural color and concentrated taste.

Strawberry Sugar Cookies quickly became a go-to for spring gatherings, baby showers, and weekend baking sessions. Because they stay soft in the center while lightly crisp around the edges, they appeal to both kids and adults. In fact, these soft pink cookies offer the perfect balance between sweetness and texture.

Unlike overly sweet bakery versions, homemade Strawberry Sugar Cookies allow you to control flavor intensity. You can adjust the strawberry powder, shape them evenly, and bake them just until the edges turn golden. As a result, you get tender fruit cookies that look elegant yet feel comforting. Most importantly, this recipe fits into a busy lifestyle since it qualifies as one of those dependable 30 minute cookies that never disappoint.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper so the cookies bake evenly and release easily. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to distribute the leavening evenly throughout the dough. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which creates the soft structure that Strawberry Sugar Cookies need. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Finally, fold in the freeze-dried strawberry powder until the dough turns evenly pink without overmixing.

Cooking Instructions

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow proper spreading. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass to create an even surface for baking. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely as the edges turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for five minutes to finish setting. Then transfer them to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour because excessive mixing develops gluten and makes the cookies tough instead of tender. Also, measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack in too much flour. Furthermore, do not overbake the cookies; although they may appear slightly soft in the center when you remove them, they firm up as they cool. Keeping a close eye during the final minutes prevents dry edges and preserves that signature soft texture.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper strawberry flavor, increase the freeze-dried strawberry powder slightly without altering the moisture balance of the dough. You can also chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking if your kitchen runs warm, which helps the cookies maintain a thicker shape. Additionally, rolling the dough balls in a small amount of granulated sugar before baking adds subtle sparkle and texture. Finally, use high-quality vanilla extract since it enhances the fruit notes and rounds out the sweetness beautifully.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies slightly cooled for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of cold milk. For special occasions, arrange them on a decorative platter to highlight their pink color, or sandwich two cookies together with vanilla buttercream for a more indulgent presentation. Because these fruit cookies look festive and elegant, they also work well as party favors wrapped in clear bags tied with ribbon.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you need longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to two months, then thaw them at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding one to two extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sugar Cookies combine buttery richness with natural fruit flavor in a simple yet elegant recipe. Because they require minimal prep and basic pantry ingredients, they fit perfectly into everyday easy baking routines. Whether you prepare them for celebrations or quiet afternoons at home, these cookies deliver consistent results every time. With their tender texture, balanced sweetness, and charming pink color, they easily become a favorite in any dessert rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried powder?

Fresh strawberries contain too much moisture and can alter the dough consistency, which leads to spreading and uneven baking. Freeze-dried strawberry powder provides concentrated flavor without adding liquid, making it ideal for Strawberry Sugar Cookies.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Cookies spread excessively when the butter becomes too warm or when you skip measuring flour accurately. Chilling the dough briefly and using properly softened, not melted, butter helps maintain shape during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before rolling and baking so the cookies bake evenly.