These Chewy Strawberry Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with fruity flavor. With a delightful chew and a hint of vanilla, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies will quickly become a favorite!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar (divided)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon strawberry extract
¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
2 tablespoons milk
A few drops of red or pink food coloring (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and 1 ½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, strawberry extract, and milk. Mix until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
Fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries. If desired, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring.
Roll the dough into 1 ½-inch balls and coat them in the remaining ¼ cup of sugar.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrients (Per Cookie)

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 80mg
Sugar: 15g

What Makes These Cookies Special?

Chewy Strawberry Sugar Cookies stand out due to their texture and flavor. Unlike traditional sugar cookies that tend to be crisp, these cookies maintain a chewy consistency thanks to a perfect balance of ingredients. The addition of freeze-dried strawberries intensifies the fruity taste without adding excess moisture, ensuring that the cookies remain chewy rather than cakey. The inclusion of vanilla and strawberry extracts enhances the overall sweetness, giving them a well-rounded flavor profile.

The Secret to a Perfect Chew

Achieving the perfect chewiness in these cookies depends on a few crucial factors. The balance of butter, sugar, and flour plays a vital role in determining the final texture. Creaming the butter and sugar properly ensures a light and airy dough, while the addition of milk helps maintain softness. Baking the cookies at the right temperature and for the correct duration prevents over-drying, keeping them soft in the center. Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack also helps set their texture properly.

The Role of Freeze-Dried Strawberries

Freeze-dried strawberries are an essential ingredient in these cookies, providing a natural strawberry flavor without the risk of excess moisture that fresh strawberries can introduce. Unlike fresh strawberries, which contain water and can make the dough too wet, freeze-dried strawberries retain the necessary flavor while maintaining the structural integrity of the cookies. Additionally, their vibrant pink color enhances the visual appeal of the cookies, making them look as delicious as they taste.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Chewy Strawberry Sugar Cookies is their versatility. They are ideal for various occasions, from Valentine’s Day treats to everyday snacks. Their attractive pink hue makes them a perfect fit for baby showers, bridal showers, and birthday parties. They also pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, making them a great option for afternoon indulgence. The simple yet elegant look of these cookies means they can easily be decorated further with icing, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate for extra flair.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Although the original recipe is already delicious, there are several ways to customize it to suit personal preferences. For those who enjoy a more intense strawberry flavor, increasing the amount of freeze-dried strawberries or adding a hint of lemon zest can enhance the fruitiness. If a richer taste is desired, substituting some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar can add depth and a slight caramelized undertone. Additionally, white chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts can be folded into the dough to introduce different textures and flavors.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage ensures that these cookies remain fresh and chewy for days. Once completely cooled, they should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerating them can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freezing the cookies in a sealed container allows them to last for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy their original chewy texture.

The Perfect Gift Idea

Homemade cookies make for a thoughtful and heartwarming gift, and these Chewy Strawberry Sugar Cookies are no exception. Their bright color and delectable taste make them a fantastic choice for edible gifts during holidays or special occasions. Packaging them in decorative tins or wrapping them in cellophane bags with a ribbon can turn them into an elegant and delicious present. Personalizing them with different decorations, such as sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate, can make the gift even more special.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing these cookies with the right beverage can enhance their flavor. They go wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, which balances their sweetness. If you prefer hot beverages, a cup of tea—especially fruity blends like berry or chamomile—complements their strawberry flavor beautifully. For a more decadent experience, serving them with a warm mug of hot chocolate can elevate the indulgence factor. These cookies can also be crumbled over vanilla ice cream or layered in a parfait for a creative dessert twist.

Conclusion

Chewy Strawberry Sugar Cookies are an exceptional treat that combines the rich, buttery texture of sugar cookies with the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries. Their unique chewy consistency, ease of preparation, and visually appealing pink hue make them a standout dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy. With a few customizations, they can be tailored to different taste preferences, making them an incredibly versatile and delicious addition to any baker’s repertoire. Once you try them, they are sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen!

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