Strawberry sugar cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cookies with the fresh flavor of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, these soft and chewy vegan cookies are easy to make and offer a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. You can enjoy them with family and friends or pack them as a tasty snack. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become so popular.
Why We Love This Strawberry Sugar Cookies
The appeal of strawberry sugar cookies lies in their delightful texture and vibrant flavor. They provide that classic cookie experience while incorporating the juicy essence of fresh strawberries. You get the satisfaction of a soft, chewy bite that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for indulging after a long day or during a sunny afternoon.
In addition to taste, these cookies are vegan-friendly, so they suit a variety of dietary preferences. Made without any animal products, they still maintain that rich, buttery taste that many love. With the fresh strawberries providing natural sweetness, there’s no need for excessive sugar. You also have the option to customize the cookie base with flavors that enhance the strawberry, giving you max versatility.
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply a treat at home, these cookies serve as a delightful way to showcase the vibrant strawberry flavor. Their beautiful pink hue makes them visually appealing, ensuring they catch the eye of anyone who lays sight on them. Whipping up a batch promises to add a splash of sweetness to your day and allows you to share the joy with others.
Ingredients for Strawberry Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil and sugar. Whisk until they blend well, creating a smooth mixture.
- Add the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until completely combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. This helps maintain a soft texture.
- Pour in the almond milk to further enhance the dough’s consistency. Mix until you achieve a gentle, cohesive dough.
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a fork or your hands, ensuring an even baking surface.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
How to Serve Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Serving strawberry sugar cookies can be both simple and fun. You can present them on a beautiful serving plate to highlight their vibrant color. Consider dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. This not only enhances their appearance but adds a bit of extra sweetness, making them even more desirable.
For gatherings, you could layer them in a clear glass jar or a decorative cookie box, making them visually appealing while keeping them fresh. Pairing the cookies with a refreshing non-dairy milk or fruit-infused water makes for a delightful treat experience.
If you want to create a dessert platter, consider adding fresh strawberry slices, blueberries, or even a scoop of non-dairy ice cream alongside your cookies. This adds a colorful contrast and allows your guests to enjoy a variety of textures and flavors together. The cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile.
Another fun serving idea includes creating strawberry cookie sandwiches by placing a dollop of non-dairy frosting or whipped topping between two cookies. This adds an extra layer of comfort and flavor, providing a delightful treat for everyone.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Sugar Cookies
To ensure your strawberry sugar cookies come out perfectly, follow these expert tips. First, use ripe strawberries for maximum flavor. When pureeing, strain the puree if you want a smoother texture, but keep in mind that some pulp adds delicious authenticity.
Be sure to measure your flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. This method prevents using too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.
Chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape better and results in a slightly chewier texture. After baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows them to set properly without falling apart.
Experiment with additional flavors and ingredients to enhance the cookie base. For a unique twist, try adding lemon zest or almond extract for an aromatic pop that complements the strawberries.
Lastly, practice portion control by using a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies. This method helps them bake uniformly, offering that ideal soft and chewy consistency across the batch.
How to Store Strawberry Sugar Cookies
To store your strawberry sugar cookies, start by letting them cool completely on a wire rack. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you wish to keep them longer, store the cookies in layers separated by parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
You can keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to preserve them for an extended time, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ideally with a layer of parchment to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven. This method ensures that they retain their soft and chewy texture, the way they were meant to be enjoyed.
Variations of Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Variations allow you to customize your strawberry sugar cookies for different tastes and occasions. One enjoyable variation includes adding chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful contrast of flavors. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a delightful bite every time.
Another option is to incorporate nuts like chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch. If you prefer a healthier twist, consider using oat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change introduces a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture beneficial for those looking for a more wholesome treat.
For a tropical flair, mix in coconut flakes, elevating the summer vibe and enhancing the cookie’s sweetness. You might also explore using dried strawberries instead of fresh ones for a more concentrated flavor.
If you’re looking to brighten the dough, adding a bit of citrus zest, such as lemon or lime, can lift the flavor profile. This adjustment creates a refreshing aftertaste that balances the sweetness.
Make these cookies festive by coloring the cookie dough with natural food coloring or by making them into fun shapes for holidays and events. The variations are truly limitless, allowing each batch to be uniquely yours.
FAQ about Strawberry Sugar Cookies
When making strawberry sugar cookies, you may have several questions regarding ingredients, storage, and preparation. First and foremost, you might wonder about substituting ingredients. Yes, you can use different types of non-dairy milk based on your preference.
If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen strawberries can also work well; just ensure they are thawed and drained before pureeing. Another common question is about egg replacement. In this vegan recipe, the use of pureed strawberries acts as a binding agent, so you don’t need to worry about traditional eggs.
You might also be curious about the best way to achieve that soft, chewy texture. Chilling the dough and taking care not to overmix will ensure that your cookies retain their signature chewiness while baking.
Lastly, if you want to make larger quantities, feel free to double the recipe. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly as larger cookies may require a few extra minutes in the oven. Enjoying strawberry sugar cookies is as straightforward as mastering the basic dough, leading you down a delightful path of flavors.