If you ask me, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies are a little piece of summer magic. These delightful cookies blend the sweetness of strawberries with a buttery base, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or simply a treat for yourself, these cookies bring a burst of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. The unique combination of fresh strawberries and rich butter creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of sunny days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness that complements the buttery cookie base perfectly.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions like parties, picnics, or just an afternoon snack with tea.
- Customizable Options: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other flavors to suit your preference.
- Impressive Appearance: These cookies look as good as they taste, making them a show-stopper at any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your delicious cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer or whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture for your butter and sugars.
Ingredients
To make your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
For the Strawberries
- 3 cups (400g) chopped fresh strawberries (cut into half-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (5ml)
For the Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup (71g) plain flour
- 2 tablespoons (25g) white sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15g) tightly packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons (42g) melted and cooled salted butter (or add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter)
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) white sugar, plus a bit more for rolling
- 1/4 cup (55g) tightly packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla essence
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/3 cups plus 1 tablespoon (200g) plain flour
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup (60g) icing sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream (35% fat)
- Milk to adjust to a thick, opaque white glaze consistency
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by mixing the chopped strawberries in a bowl. Add the white sugar, corn starch, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well combined. Set aside to let the strawberries macerate while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla essence until light and fluffy.
1. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
2. Gradually mix in both types of flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms.
3. Gently fold in the prepared strawberry mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
1. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Roll each ball in extra sugar before placing it on the sheet.
3. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While cookies are baking, prepare your glaze by whisking together icing sugar, vanilla essence, heavy cream, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze
Once baked cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before drizzling with glaze.
Enjoy your delicious Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies!
How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their sweet and buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Serve these cookies topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra creamy texture and sweetness.
Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream
- Pair your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.
Served Alongside Fresh Berries
- Add a side of mixed fresh berries to enhance the fruity flavor of the cookies, offering a refreshing touch.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea; the rich flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
How to Perfect Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
Creating the perfect homemade strawberry shortcake butter cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries as they provide the best flavor and sweetness.
Cream Butter and Sugars Well: Beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, making your cookies tender and light.
Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking for better shape retention.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them when they’re golden at the edges, as they will continue to cook slightly on the tray.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
Homemade strawberry shortcake butter cookies can be complemented by various side dishes. These pairings not only enhance flavors but also create a delightful dessert spread.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the cookies.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with cookie textures.
Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate provides an indulgent dip option that elevates your cookie experience.
Custard Sauce: A warm custard sauce drizzled over cookies offers a luxurious touch that enhances flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and refreshes after each bite of cookie.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add a creamy element that pairs well with the buttery taste of the cookies.
Pudding Cups: Individual pudding cups can complement the texture and provide additional flavors alongside your cookies.
Nut Mix: A simple mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and contrasts beautifully with soft cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Incorrect strawberry preparation: Not chopping strawberries properly can lead to uneven distribution in the cookies. Always cut them into half-inch pieces for even mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: This can make cookies tough rather than tender. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a softer texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Using too much or too little flour can drastically change cookie consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in cookies that are burnt on the outside but raw inside. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag after they are solid.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping once until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies.
Can I use frozen strawberries for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
How do I make my cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or reducing bake time slightly.
Can I substitute other fruits?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for different flavors.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different fruits or spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer!
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies, a perfect treat that embodies the sweetness of summer. These cookies are not only easy to make but also burst with fresh strawberry goodness. The buttery base complements the juicy strawberries, creating a scrumptious bite that’s ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their impressive appearance and customizable options, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any dessert table. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or served alongside whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a medley of fresh berries for an unforgettable treat.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 tablespoon tightly packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons melted and cooled salted butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup white sugar, plus a bit more for rolling
- 1/4 cup tightly packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/3 cups plus 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Milk to adjust to a thick, opaque white glaze consistency
Instructions
- Start by mixing chopped strawberries with white sugar, corn starch, and lemon juice; set aside to macerate.
- In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, melted butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla essence until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in both types of flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the prepared strawberry mixture until evenly distributed.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Roll each ball in extra sugar before placing it on the sheet.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- While cookies are baking, prepare your glaze by whisking together icing sugar, vanilla essence, heavy cream, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
- Once baked cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before drizzling with glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Chill the dough if it feels too soft before baking. Try substituting strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for variety.