If you’ve ever wished for a cookie that perfectly captures the sweet, nostalgic flavors of a classic strawberry shortcake, you’re in for a treat with this Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe. These sugar cookies bring together a tender, buttery base topped with a delicate pink frosting and the delightful crunch of strawberry shortcake crumbs. They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of summer happiness that are as fun to make as they are to enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy afternoon snack, or simply because you deserve a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies hit every note just right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart of any great baking project, and this recipe is no different. Each component here plays a crucial role—from the creamy butter that gives the cookies their tender crumb to the pink food coloring that adds a cheerful pop of color, and of course, the strawberry shortcake crumbs that bring the signature texture and flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delectable treats.
- 3/4 cup butter, softened: Use unsalted for better control over flavor and ensure it’s softened to cream smoothly with sugar.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps give them a slightly crisp edge.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture for a soft, rich dough.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb when combined just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a gentle rise and soft texture.
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar: Used to create the smooth, sweet frosting topping.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Thins the confectioner’s sugar to create a drizzle-ready icing.
- Pink food coloring: Adds a festive strawberry-inspired hue to the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs: The signature crunch and strawberry burst that finishes each cookie perfectly.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Surface
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preparing your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat will keep these sweet cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, which we all appreciate.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a sizable mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air, ensuring your cookies will have a lovely tender texture. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, before stirring in the vanilla extract for that classic flavor base.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, blending until everything is just combined. A light touch here keeps the dough from becoming tough while providing enough structure for shaping and baking.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Divide the dough into portions, flatten each into a ball, and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space to spread slightly while baking. Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges start to turn a delicate golden color. Once done, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which is crucial before frosting.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
Whisk 3 tablespoons of milk into the confectioner’s sugar to form a smooth, pourable glaze. Split the frosting into two bowls and add pink food coloring to one to create that lovely strawberry shade. This dual-tone frosting adds a whimsical touch and highlights the sweetness of the cookies.
Step 6: Decorate and Finish
Drizzle your pink and white frostings over the cooled cookies in any pattern you like — swirls, stripes, or random drizzles all work wonderfully. Immediately sprinkle each cookie with generous Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs for added texture and a burst of fruity flavor. Let the icing set before digging in to preserve that perfect bite.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the already delightful cookies, consider adding fresh strawberry slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. These accents not only enhance the strawberry theme but also make the presentation instantly more inviting. A small mint leaf on the side adds a lovely contrast of color and a fresh floral hint that’s unexpected but delightful.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed tea, strawberry lemonade, or even a glass of cold milk to balance sweetness with a refreshing sip. For an extra indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of mixed berries. The acidity of fresh fruit beautifully cuts through the richness of the cookie and frosting combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, arrange these cookies on a colorful platter with edible flowers or wrap them individually in cellophane tied with pink ribbon for a charming touch. You can also stack a few with a dollop of whipped cream between them for a mini strawberry shortcake-inspired sandwich that stuns both visually and on the palate. Presentation is half the fun, so feel free to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once decorated and fully cooled, place your strawberry shortcake sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead for a party or week-long treats. Just be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or humidity, which can affect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough before baking by shaping it into balls and placing them on a tray to freeze solid, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. When ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For baked and frosted cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container to freeze up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm cookie, pop one in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. Warm frosting will be softer and the cookie will feel extra cozy, just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
All-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture and structure, but if you prefer, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind it might slightly alter the chew and spread of the cookies.
What can I use instead of pink food coloring?
If you want to avoid artificial dyes, try using natural alternatives like beet juice or raspberry powder to achieve a lovely pink hue without compromising flavor.
Do the Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs need to be homemade?
Store-bought crumbs work perfectly for convenience, but making your own is easy and adds a lovely fresh element. Just crush dried strawberry shortcake or vanilla cookies until crumbly and golden.
How can I make these cookies more festive for holidays?
Swap out the pink frosting for red and green around Christmas or pastel shades for Easter. Adding themed sprinkles along with the crumbs makes these sugar cookies adaptable and fun for any celebration.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute vegan butter and use a flax egg or another egg replacement. Make sure your frosting ingredients are plant-based as well. The resulting cookies will still be tasty with just a few minor tweaks.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe are truly a joyful way to bring a bit of sunshine and sweetness into your kitchen. The combination of soft sugar cookie, perfectly tinted frosting, and those irresistible strawberry shortcake crumbs make for a treat any time of year. Don’t hesitate to grab your ingredients and start baking—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these little beauties disappear once you share them with friends and family.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 32 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies, a perfect treat combining tender sugar cookies topped with a sweet pink frosting and crunchy Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs. Ideal for gatherings or everyday indulgence, these cookies deliver a fruity, creamy flavor with a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Frosting
- 4 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- pink food colouring
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is creamy and light yellow. Then, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is blended in before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Mix thoroughly until the dough comes together and is well combined without overmixing.
- Shape & Bake: Portion the dough into equal-sized balls, slightly flatten them, and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until edges begin to set and the tops look set but not browned. Remove and allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Frosting: Mix the milk into the confectioner’s sugar gradually until you achieve a thin, drizzle-able consistency. Split the frosting into two bowls, tint one portion with pink food coloring to achieve a soft pink hue.
- Decorate: Drizzle the tinted pink frosting over the cooled cookies generously. Immediately sprinkle the Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs over the frosting for added texture and flavor. Let the frosting dry completely before serving to ensure it sets well.
Notes
- If you prefer softer cookies, bake for the lower end of the time range and allow to cool completely before frosting.
- You can substitute strawberry-flavored crumbs or sprinkles if Strawberry Shortcake Crumbs are unavailable.
- For a more vibrant pink, adjust the amount of food colouring gradually to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better texture.
