If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that practically bursts with fresh strawberry flavor and satisfies your sweet tooth in the most delightful way, these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies are an absolute must-try. Imagine the perfect balance of soft, buttery sugar cookie dough infused with real freeze-dried strawberries, plus a luscious strawberry jam swirl, all topped off with dreamy cream cheese icing speckled with strawberry powder. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a fruity twist on a classic treat, these cookies will charm your heart and taste buds alike.

Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies lies in a handful of simple, yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible rosy hue that makes these cookies stand out on any cookie platter.

Freeze-dried strawberries: Pulverized to bring an intense strawberry flavor without extra moisture, ensuring your cookies stay perfectly soft.
Salted butter: Adds richness and helps create that tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and promotes a slight crisp on the edges.
Egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s tender texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and complements the strawberry flavor delicately.
All-purpose flour: The cookie’s sturdy base, providing structure.
Baking soda: Gives a gentle lift for soft, airy cookies.
Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens flavor overall.
Strawberry jam: Adds an extra burst of fruity goodness embedded inside each cookie.
Cream cheese: For the icing, lends a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with strawberry.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing without adding graininess.
Hot milk: Smoothes out the icing to just the right consistency for dipping or drizzling.

How to Make Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Powder

Start by pulverizing the freeze-dried strawberries in a blender until you have a fine, fragrant powder. This concentrated strawberry dust is what infuses both the dough and icing with that unmistakable berry flavor, making these cookies truly shine.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together room temperature salted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. Beat in the egg, then gradually fold in the flour, baking soda, a portion of the strawberry powder, and kosher salt for balanced flavor and texture. Finally, swirl in the strawberry jam for that juicy punch of sweetness.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Roll the dough into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for eight minutes. After that initial bake, gently tap the baking sheet to flatten the cookies slightly, then return them to the oven for another 2-3 minutes. This method gives the cookies a perfect soft center and lightly crisp edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by blending cream cheese, powdered sugar, hot milk, vanilla extract, and the rest of the strawberry powder until smooth and luscious. Adjust the consistency by adding a splash more milk if needed. The icing is the final flourish that adds a creamy strawberry glaze, or if you prefer, dip the tops of the cookies for a delightful coating.

How to Serve Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

For a charming touch, sprinkle a little extra strawberry powder or finely crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the icing while it’s still wet. You could also add a few tiny fresh strawberry slices or edible flower petals to elevate the look and add a hint of elegance.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair marvelously with a cup of hot tea, like Earl Grey or chamomile, which complements the fruitiness without overwhelming it. Alternatively, serve alongside a chilled glass of milk or a light berry-flavored lemonade to enhance the strawberry theme throughout your snack time or dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies in pretty cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for gifting. Or arrange them on a tiered dessert stand with fresh strawberries and mint sprigs for a stunning display at your next brunch or party. You can also sandwich them with a thin layer of strawberry jam or cream cheese filling for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their softness and prevents them from drying out. If you live in a warm climate, refrigeration is an option, but it may slightly change the cookie’s texture.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and add fresh icing if desired.

Reheating

To revive the just-baked warmth, heat the cookies gently in a 300°F oven for 4-5 minutes. This restores that fresh-baked softness and helps the icing slightly soften for a melt-in-your-mouth treat, almost like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh strawberries for freeze-dried strawberries?

Fresh strawberries contain too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the dough. Freeze-dried strawberries are ideal because they provide concentrated flavor without adding liquid, ensuring the cookies bake up perfectly soft and not soggy.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the icing?

You can make a simple strawberry glaze by mixing powdered sugar with strawberry jam and a splash of milk as a quick alternative. However, the cream cheese icing adds a creamy tang that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free versions, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that texture and structure might differ slightly.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Substituting butter and the egg with vegan alternatives might work, but you may need to experiment with bindings like flaxseed egg and plant-based spreads. The cream cheese icing would also need a dairy-free cream cheese. It’s definitely possible but expect some adjustments!

How long do the cookies keep their best flavor?

For peak freshness, enjoy your Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies within a few days of baking. As they sit, the strawberry flavor gently mellows but remains delicious. Proper storage in airtight containers helps maintain their delightful texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Double Strawberry Sugar Cookies feels like sharing a special secret with your favorite people—each bite is a joyful mix of bright strawberry flavor, creamy icing, and tender cookie crumb. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. So grab those freeze-dried strawberries and get ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible strawberry-scented happiness!