These Strawberry Shortbread Cookies offer a delightful burst of strawberry flavor, achieved by incorporating freeze-dried strawberries into both the cookie dough and the glaze. This method ensures a vibrant taste and color, allowing you to enjoy a taste of summer year-round.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (12g) freeze-dried strawberries
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Glaze:

1/4 cup (6g) freeze-dried strawberries
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
2-3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the Strawberry Sugar: In a food processor, combine granulated sugar and 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries. Pulse until the strawberries are finely ground and well incorporated into the sugar.
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature butter and the prepared strawberry sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. If using, add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Shape the Dough: Option 1: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm (about 1 hour). Option 2: Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm (about 1 hour). Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the chilled dough logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds or place the cut-out shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a clean food processor, combine 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries and powdered sugar. Pulse until the strawberries are finely ground and well mixed with the sugar. Transfer to a bowl and whisk in the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Add the vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract and mix well.
Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle or spread the glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.

Nutrients (per serving, approximate values)

Calories: 120 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 30mg
Sugar: 6g

The Magic of Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are known for their simple yet irresistible flavor. Their signature texture is tender and crumbly, and their buttery taste is rich and satisfying. Unlike many cookies, shortbread relies on just a few basic ingredients—flour, sugar, butter, and sometimes salt or flavorings. This minimalist approach allows each ingredient to shine through, resulting in a cookie that is both comforting and indulgent.

Strawberry Shortbread Cookies take this beloved classic and elevate it with the addition of strawberries. The freeze-dried strawberries bring a unique texture and depth to the cookies, infusing them with their natural sweetness and tartness. This results in a cookie that is a bit more complex than the traditional shortbread, while still maintaining the simple, comforting characteristics that make shortbread so special.

Freeze-Dried Strawberries: The Secret to Flavorful, Year-Round Cookies

One of the key ingredients in this recipe is freeze-dried strawberries, which add a concentrated, vibrant strawberry flavor to the cookies. Unlike fresh strawberries, freeze-dried strawberries retain all their natural flavors but are free from the moisture that can affect the texture of baked goods. This makes them an ideal ingredient for baking, as they impart a rich strawberry taste without adding excess liquid to the dough or glaze.

In addition to enhancing the flavor, freeze-dried strawberries contribute a beautiful pink hue to both the cookies and the glaze, giving them a visually appealing appearance. The process of freeze-drying also ensures that the strawberries maintain their nutritional value, meaning you can enjoy the health benefits of strawberries, such as their high vitamin C content, even when they’re out of season.

The Art of Preparing Shortbread Cookie Dough

Making shortbread cookie dough is straightforward and relatively simple, but achieving the perfect texture requires attention to detail. The first step is to create the strawberry sugar, which is made by blending granulated sugar with freeze-dried strawberries. This mixture not only adds sweetness but also infuses the dough with the strawberry flavor that will shine through in each bite.

Once the strawberry sugar is prepared, it is mixed with softened butter to create a light, fluffy base for the dough. The addition of flour and salt ensures the dough achieves the perfect shortbread texture—crisp on the outside with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. The dough is then chilled to firm up, making it easier to handle and cut into shapes.

While the dough can be formed into logs for slicing or rolled out and cut into shapes with cookie cutters, both methods yield delicious results. The choice of method largely depends on your personal preference or the occasion for which the cookies are being made. The versatility of the dough allows you to create classic round cookies or more decorative shapes that can fit into any theme.

Baking and Glazing: The Finishing Touches

Once the dough is cut into shapes and baked, the glaze is the final step that brings everything together. The glaze itself is made with finely ground freeze-dried strawberries and powdered sugar, resulting in a smooth and sweet coating that perfectly complements the richness of the shortbread. The addition of a small amount of milk ensures the glaze has the ideal consistency for drizzling or spreading over the cooled cookies.

The glaze is an optional but highly recommended step, as it adds both sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish to the cookies. Whether you choose to drizzle it over the tops of the cookies or spread it generously, the glaze enhances the visual appeal and flavor of the cookies. Additionally, the use of vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract in the glaze provides a subtle aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall taste.

Serving and Storing Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

Strawberry shortbread cookies are ideal for any occasion, and their light, refreshing flavor makes them particularly well-suited for spring and summer gatherings. They pair wonderfully with tea, coffee, or even a glass of chilled sparkling water. Their versatility also makes them an excellent choice for cookie exchanges, picnics, or as a homemade gift for family and friends.

To store the cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to one week. If you have made a large batch or want to extend their shelf life, you can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. Freezing the cookies is an excellent way to keep a stash on hand for whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Conclusion: A Perfect Treat for Every Occasion

In conclusion, Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful combination of classic shortbread and the vibrant, tangy sweetness of strawberries. Whether you are enjoying them on a lazy afternoon or serving them at a special gathering, these cookies offer a treat that is as delicious as it is beautiful. Their rich flavor, combined with the unique use of freeze-dried strawberries, ensures that they will be a hit at any event.

The process of making these cookies is simple, yet the result is a sophisticated and satisfying treat. From the strawberry-infused dough to the glossy, sweet glaze, each bite is a perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity brightness. And with the option to decorate them in fun shapes or customize the glaze, these cookies are an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a homemade dessert that stands out.

Pin1

1 Shares