Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. With their soft centers, chewy edges, and sweet strawberry icing, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies will elevate your baking game!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe features straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of oats and strawberries creates a deliciously unique taste that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just as an after-school snack, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Fun to Decorate: The pink strawberry icing adds a fun twist and makes decorating enjoyable for both kids and adults.
• Chewy Texture: The mix of old-fashioned oats provides a satisfying chewiness that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on this delicious journey, gather your tools. Having the right kitchen equipment will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Food processor
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Ensure you have enough space to combine ingredients properly without any spills.
• Food processor: This tool helps create the perfect oat flour consistency quickly and easily.
• Whisk: A good whisk is essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing wet and dry components.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 10 tablespoons (140 g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (95 g) old fashioned oats
• 1 cup, plus 2 tablespoons (140 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon molasses (or honey)

For the Icing

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder
• 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 drop gel pink food coloring, optional

How to Make Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cookie Sheet

Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside to ensure easy removal of cookies later.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until melted. Continue stirring as it foams; watch for it to turn golden brown but not dark.

Step 3: Cool the Butter

Pour the browned butter into a large bowl, scraping all bits from the pan. Allow it to cool for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 4: Process the Oats

While the butter cools, pulse the oats in a food processor until they form fine crumbs mixed with larger bits. Set aside.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 6: Combine Sugars

Once the butter is cool enough to touch, add both sugars into the bowl. Whisk until well combined, which should take about one minute.

Step 7: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, whisking thoroughly until blended.

Step 8: Incorporate Molasses

Stir in molasses or honey until fully incorporated into your mixture.

Step 9: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the dry ingredients along with the processed oats using a large spatula or wooden spoon. Take care not to overmix.

Step 10: Chill Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out uniform scoops onto your prepared cookie sheet. Cover and chill overnight or at least three hours for best results.

Step 11: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Remove cookie dough from refrigeration. Place dough balls on lined sheets spaced about two to three inches apart. Bake one sheet at a time for about 10 to 11 minutes, ensuring edges are set and golden brown without overbaking.

Step 13: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from oven. Use a large circle cookie cutter or spatula to gently shape cookies if needed. Let them cool on baking sheets for ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Allow cookies to cool completely before adding icing.

How to Serve Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These strawberry iced oatmeal cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a glass of cold milk for the classic combination that never fails to satisfy.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter alongside fresh fruits and other baked goods for an inviting dessert spread.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The sweet icing complements the flavors of both beverages beautifully.

During Family Gatherings

• Serve these cookies at family gatherings or potlucks. They are sure to impress guests of all ages with their chewy texture and sweet icing.

As After-School Snacks

• Pack a few cookies in lunchboxes as a sweet surprise for kids returning home from school. They make for an easy and delicious snack!

How to Perfect Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

To ensure your strawberry iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them mix better, creating a smoother dough.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough – Chilling the cookie dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Check oven temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Sift powdered sugar for icing – Sifting ensures there are no lumps in your icing, giving it a smooth finish that looks appealing.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the icing for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These strawberry iced oatmeal cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the cookie’s texture.

3. Cheese Plate
   Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie or sharp cheddar, which provide a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

4. Nut Mix
   A blend of roasted nuts provides crunchiness, making it an ideal accompaniment to soft cookies.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These add an elegant touch and enhance the strawberry flavor in your cookies.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up an ice cream bar where guests can build their sundaes using their favorite toppings alongside your delicious cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making strawberry iced oatmeal cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the final outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using warm butter: If your butter is too warm, it can lead to flat cookies. Always let it cool to room temperature after melting.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in overly spread cookies. Be sure to chill the dough for at least 3 hours or overnight.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Fold the ingredients just until combined for a soft texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can alter the baking time and cookie texture. Always preheat your oven to 350°F before baking.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keeping a close eye on the baking time ensures cookies remain chewy. Bake just until edges are golden and set.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Freeze individually wrapped cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies special?

These cookies combine traditional oatmeal cookie flavors with a delicious strawberry icing, giving them a unique twist that appeals to all ages.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can use different freeze-dried fruits like raspberry or blueberry for an exciting flavor variation while keeping the same base recipe.

How do I decorate my Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies?

You can add sprinkles or additional freeze-dried fruit powder on top of the icing before it sets for extra flair and texture.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their yummy taste and texture.

How can I customize my Strawberry Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Feel free to mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or additional spices like nutmeg for added flavor and personal touch!

Final Thoughts

These strawberry iced oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as an after-school treat or serve them at gatherings, they are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite add-ins!