Iced Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Iced Strawberry Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy pink cookies made with sweet strawberry flavor and topped with a thick strawberry icing that gives them a bright, pretty finish perfect for the holidays. They remind me of those joyful baking days when colorful treats made the kitchen feel warm and fun, and every cookie looked like a little celebration. The soft texture, fruity flavor, and creamy icing make Iced Strawberry Sugar Cookies a festive, cheerful treat that’s great for parties, gifting, dessert tables, and cozy moments with family and friends.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries or fresh strawberries (patted dry)
1–2 drops pink gel food coloring (optional)

For the icing:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp strawberry puree or strawberry juice
1 tbsp finely crushed freeze-dried strawberries
1 tsp vanilla extract
Extra crushed strawberries for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, creamy, and fluffy. This gives the cookies their soft, chewy texture.
Step 2: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Fold in the finely chopped freeze-dried or dried strawberries. If using fresh strawberries, pat them very dry before adding. Add pink gel coloring for a brighter color if desired.
Step 6: Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoon portions of dough and roll into smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Step 7: Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with your palm to create even rounds.
Step 8: Chill the shaped dough for 15–20 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 9: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly puffy.
Step 10: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before icing.
Step 11: Make the icing by mixing powdered sugar, strawberry puree or juice, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and vanilla extract until smooth and thick. Adjust thickness with more sugar or liquid.
Step 12: Spread or dip the tops of the cooled cookies in icing, then sprinkle extra crushed strawberries on top. Allow icing to set before serving.

Variations

• Add white chocolate chips to the dough
• Use lemon zest for a strawberry-lemon twist
• Make mini bite-size cookies
• Dip half the cookie in white chocolate
• Add sprinkles for a festive look

Serving suggestions

• Serve on Christmas dessert trays
• Package in clear bags or tins for gifting
• Pair with hot cocoa, milk, or tea
• Add to holiday cookie boxes
• Use as a colorful party treat

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information

(Per cookie, based on 24 cookies)
Calories: ~130
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 1g

Conclusion

Iced Strawberry Sugar Cookies are soft, sweet, and full of bright strawberry flavor with a creamy pink icing that makes them look beautiful and festive. They’re easy to prepare, fun to decorate, and perfect for gifting, parties, and cozy holiday celebrations. The chewy cookie base, fruity icing, and colorful toppings create a treat that stands out on any dessert table and brings a cheerful, memorable touch to the holiday season. Once you share them, they’re the kind of cookies people look forward to year after year.

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