Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar are soft, buttery cookies with a sweet strawberry flavor and a beautiful pink sparkle on top. These cookies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, spring parties, or anytime you want a pretty and delicious treat. The strawberry sugar adds flavor, color, and a fun crunch that makes these cookies extra special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These cookies are soft and chewy.
- They have real strawberry flavor.
- They look beautiful with sparkling sugar.
- They are easy to make with simple ingredients.
- They are perfect for gifting and holidays.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Strawberry extract or strawberry powder
- Pink food coloring (optional)
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Extra granulated sugar for coating
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Sugar
Place freeze-dried strawberries and sugar in a food processor.Blend until fine and pink.Pour into a shallow bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.Add egg, vanilla, and strawberry extract.Mix until combined.Add dry ingredients and mix just until dough forms.Add food coloring if using.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough into balls.Roll each ball in sparkling strawberry sugar.Place on a lined baking sheet, spacing evenly.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 9–11 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring.
Cooking Notes
- Do not overbake or cookies will lose softness.
- Strawberry sugar may darken slightly while baking.
- Allow cookies to cool fully for best texture.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Variations
Add white chocolate chips to the dough
Use heart-shaped cookie cutters
Drizzle with white chocolate after baking
Swap strawberry extract for raspberry extract
Tips
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill dough for 20 minutes if too soft.
- Add more strawberry extract for stronger flavor.
- Roll dough twice in sugar for extra sparkle.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with milk or tea.
- Pack into Valentine gift boxes.
- Add to dessert platters.
- Pair with other pink desserts.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze dough balls for up to 2 months.
Can I skip food coloring?
Yes, the strawberry sugar already adds color.
Why are my cookies flat?
Butter may be too soft; chill dough before baking.
Can I use fresh strawberries?
No, fresh strawberries add too much moisture.
Conclusion
Strawberry Sugar Cookies with Sparkling Strawberry Sugar are soft, flavorful, and beautiful cookies that are perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. The strawberry sugar makes them stand out and adds a fun sparkle everyone will love.