🍓 Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar
Introduction
If a cookie could capture sunshine and strawberries, this would be it. These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly pink thanks to freeze-dried strawberries mixed into the dough and the sugar coating. Topped with sparkling sugar, they glisten like little gems—ideal for baby showers, birthdays, spring brunches, or just because.
Why I Love This Recipe
Not only are these cookies stunning to look at, they’re packed with real strawberry flavor—no artificial extracts needed. The freeze-dried strawberries lend a concentrated berry punch, and the sparkling sugar on top adds just enough crunch. Like rainbow sprinkle cookies or cookie dough brownie bombs, these cookies are a crowd-pleasing treat with a playful twist.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Cookies (Makes about 18):
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberries, ground into powder
- 1 tbsp strawberry jam or puréed fresh strawberries (optional, for extra berry boost)
For the Sparkling Strawberry Sugar:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberry powder
- 1 tsp sparkling sugar (optional, for glitter effect)
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat.
Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Add in egg, vanilla, and jam or puree. Mix to combine.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, then fold in freeze-dried strawberry powder for that vibrant pink hue.
2️⃣ Make the Sparkling Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, stir together granulated sugar and freeze-dried strawberry powder.
Add sparkling sugar if using for a glittery finish.
3️⃣ Shape the Cookies
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball.
Roll each ball in the sparkling strawberry sugar coating.
Place on baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
4️⃣ Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft.
Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve with a cold glass of milk, lemonade, or a cup of tea. These cookies also make a gorgeous addition to cookie boxes, gift bags, or brunch spreads.
⏱️ Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
- Yield: About 18 cookies
- Calories: ~145 per cookie
💡 Tips & Variations
- Boost the flavor: Add 1–2 more tablespoons of freeze-dried strawberry powder for stronger berry flavor.
- Add-ins: Mix in white chocolate chips or chopped strawberries for texture and sweetness.
- Vegan version: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water), and swap jam for purée.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days, or freeze for 2 months.
🍴 More Treats You’ll Love
- These Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies Are My Favorite Way to Bake Up Instant Joy
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime
- The Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About and Asking the Recipe For
🧾 Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with real strawberry flavor—not to mention absolutely beautiful. With their sparkling sugar coating and pink hue, they feel like a celebration in cookie form. Perfect for spring, Valentine’s Day, or anytime you want something sweet, fruity, and unforgettable.
Leave a Reply