These delightful Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft, buttery texture will melt in your mouth, while the fresh strawberry icing adds a burst of flavor that makes them irresistible. Ideal for tea parties, family gatherings, or just as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress with their unique combination of flavors and beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are incredibly soft and buttery, creating a delightful experience with each bite.
- Fresh fruit flavor: The addition of fresh strawberries and lemon juice gives these cookies a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile treat: Great for various occasions like picnics, birthday parties, or just a cozy afternoon at home.
- Beautiful presentation: The vibrant pink icing not only tastes great but also looks stunning on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking these Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy cookie base.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies every time.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup very soft butter (I use salted)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (I use Morton’s)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Sugar for rolling (I use cane sugar which is a little coarser than granulated sugar)
For the Strawberry Icing
- ¾ cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2-2 ½ tablespoons fresh strawberry syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (maybe a bit more)
- 1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (maybe a bit more)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the very soft butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the cornstarch, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop out small balls of dough and roll them in sugar to coat.
- Place them on the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Step 5: Prepare the Icing
- In another bowl, combine diced fresh strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Add strawberry syrup, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Ice the Cookies
Once cooled, drizzle or spread the icing over each cookie. Allow it to set before serving.
Now you can enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies! Perfectly sweetened with fresh flavors that everyone will love.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
These Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party or enjoying a casual gathering with friends. Their delightful flavor makes them a hit at any table.
For Afternoon Tea
- Serve alongside a selection of teas for a lovely afternoon treat. The light lemony notes pair wonderfully with herbal or black teas.
With Fresh Fruit
- Present your cookies with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or slices of lemon. This adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
As Party Favors
- Package the cookies in decorative bags and give them as party favors. Add a little tag with the recipe for a personal touch that guests will appreciate.
With Iced Beverages
- Pair these cookies with iced lemonade or iced tea. The chilled drinks enhance the cookie’s flavors and create a perfect summer treat.
On Dessert Platters
- Include these cookies on dessert platters at gatherings. They add color and elegance, making the spread more inviting.
How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
To truly master these meltaway cookies, consider a few key techniques that enhance their texture and flavor.
- Use very soft butter: This helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let your butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft but not greasy.
- Sift your flour: Sifting helps aerate the flour and prevents clumps, ensuring even mixing for lighter cookies.
- Chill the dough: If you find the dough too sticky to handle, chill it for about 30 minutes. This makes rolling easier and helps retain shape during baking.
- Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be set but not browned; this keeps them tender.
- Add fresh strawberry juice: Incorporate additional fresh strawberry juice into the icing for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies and brings freshness to your plate.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy balance against the lightness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, offers a savory contrast to sweet treats.
- Mini Quiches: These savory bites add variety to your spread and can be made in different flavors to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Veggie Sticks with Dip: Crunchy vegetables paired with hummus or ranch dressing provide a healthy option alongside sweet cookies.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats echo your cookie’s flavors while adding an indulgent element to your dessert table.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet serves as a palate cleanser that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes in your cookies.
- Tea Sandwiches: Delicate sandwiches filled with cucumber or cream cheese make for an elegant addition to any tea party setting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes be tricky, especially with delicate cookies like Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t blend well with other ingredients, resulting in a dense cookie. Always use very soft butter for the best texture.
- Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is key for that melt-away texture. If you omit it, your cookies may turn out too chewy instead of light and airy.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurements.
- Ignoring chilling time: For optimal flavor and texture, chill your dough before baking. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances taste.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Layer cookies between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Lightly toast on a non-stick skillet over low heat for a minute or two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies.
How do I achieve the perfect soft texture in Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies?
To get that melt-in-your-mouth texture, use very soft butter and don’t overmix the dough.
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh strawberries with thawed frozen ones, but they may release more juice into the icing.
What other flavors can I add to Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies?
You can customize these cookies by adding lemon zest or even using different fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
How long do Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. Perfectly suited for tea parties or any occasion, they can be customized with various fruits or flavors. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste!
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, a treat that perfectly balances soft, buttery goodness with the refreshing flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon. These cookies have an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them ideal for any occasion—from tea parties to casual gatherings. Topped with a vibrant strawberry icing, each bite delivers a burst of fruity flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and visually stunning, these cookies are not only a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup very soft butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2–2 ½ tablespoons fresh strawberry syrup
- 1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the very soft butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add cornstarch, vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
- Roll small balls of dough in sugar and place them on the baking sheet about two inches apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Cool on wire racks.
- For icing, combine diced strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for 10 minutes. Mix in lemon juice and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Ice cooled cookies and allow them to set before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use very soft butter for optimal texture; let it sit at room temperature if needed. Feel free to customize by adding other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for varied flavors. For an extra refreshing touch, consider adding lemon zest to the cookie dough.