Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

If you ask me, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies are a little piece of summer magic. These delightful cookies combine the sweetness of strawberries with a rich buttery flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or simply indulging your sweet tooth at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Their unique texture and fresh taste will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of fresh strawberries and buttery cookie dough creates an irresistible taste that captures the essence of summer.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or just as a sweet snack at home, these cookies are suitable for any occasion.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or substitute other fruits based on your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping you in the kitchen, making this a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and achieving the right cookie dough consistency.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring uniform heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy while ensuring your cookies bake evenly.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Strawberries Mixture

• 3 cups (400g) chopped fresh strawberries (cut into half-inch pieces)
• 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (5ml)

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup (71g) plain flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) white sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15g) tightly packed light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons (42g) melted and cooled salted butter (or add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter)
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) white sugar, plus a bit more for rolling
• 1/4 cup (55g) tightly packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla essence
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/3 cups plus 1 tablespoon (200g) plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup (60g) icing sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream (35% fat)
• Milk to adjust to a thick, opaque white glaze consistency

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine chopped strawberries with white sugar, corn starch, and lemon juice. Toss gently until well mixed.
• Set aside to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter, melted salted butter, white sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla essence until creamy.
• Add in the egg and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Stir just until combined; do not overmix.
• Gently fold in the strawberry mixture until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on wire racks.

Step 6: Prepare Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together icing sugar, vanilla essence, heavy cream, and enough milk to achieve desired glaze consistency.
• Drizzle over cooled cookies before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a treat at home. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these delicious Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Serve the cookies alongside a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness. The creamy texture complements the fruity flavors beautifully.

Paired with Ice Cream

• Enjoy the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cookie, creating a delightful contrast.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter with other treats like fruits and pastries. This makes for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Top the cookies with your homemade icing glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. This adds visual appeal and enhances flavor.

How to Perfect Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

Creating the ideal batch of Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies can be simple with a few helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure perfection in every bite.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for maximum flavor. Frozen berries may release excess moisture, affecting the cookie’s texture.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking helps maintain shape and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve consistent results. Too much or too little can alter the texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving. This helps them set properly and enhances their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here’s a list of delightful options that complement these sweet treats perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and more strawberries for a refreshing side that pairs well with dessert.
3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone offer a savory contrast, enhancing the dessert experience.
4. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate provides an indulgent dip option that pairs wonderfully with strawberry flavors.
5. Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea offers a calming beverage choice that complements sweet desserts nicely.
6. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink can cleanse the palate and add zesty notes alongside your cookies.
7. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts gives a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft cookies.
8. Savory Scones: Lightly flavored scones can provide balance and variety when served as part of your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success.

• Using Overripe Strawberries: Overripe strawberries can lead to mushy cookies. Choose fresh, firm strawberries for the best texture.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cookie’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise amounts.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender result.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect cookie texture and flavor. Always preheat the oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

• Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat cookies in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies.

Can I substitute strawberries with other fruits?

Yes! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or peaches as alternatives to create different flavors.

How do I achieve a thicker glaze?

Add more icing sugar or reduce the amount of heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg as a substitute for the large egg.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?

The total time from preparation to baking is about two hours, including chilling time.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Butter Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fruits or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer!