As I pulled a batch of Vegan Strawberry Sugar Cookies from the oven, the sweet, fruity aroma filled my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to carefree summer days. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful, chewy experience that bursts with the natural flavor of fresh strawberries. This simple recipe uses common pantry ingredients and is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating love on Valentine’s Day or enjoying a sunny picnic. The best part? You can easily whip them up with fresh or frozen strawberries, allowing you to savor these delights all year round. With their soft texture and vibrant color, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family, while also being a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why are these strawberry cookies irresistible?
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of these vegan strawberry sugar cookies is like a summer day, filled with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. Easy and Quick: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. Visually Stunning: With their vibrant pink hue, these cookies are a feast for the eyes and will surely elevate any dessert table! Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a holiday celebration, they fit right in, just like my other favorites, Twix Cookies Chewy or Oreo Cheesecake Cookies. Crowd Pleaser: Vegan, delicious, and stunning—everyone will love them, which means more smiles at your gatherings!
Strawberry Sugar Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- Strawberries – Fresh or frozen; these provide the fruity flavor and moisture, with a reduction enhancing their sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and achieving a crispy cookie exterior.
- Vegan Butter – Ensures richness and tenderness; always use at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – A delightful flavor enhancer that’s optional but highly recommended.
- Food Coloring – Use pink or red for a pop of color; add based on the strength of the coloring used.
- All-Purpose Flour – Offers the necessary structure; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise beautifully during baking.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness; skip if using salted butter.
For the Coating
- Sugar Coating – Optional, but rolling the dough balls in sugar adds an extra sweet and crunchy texture to each cookie surface.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Make Strawberry Reduction
Begin by blending your fresh or frozen strawberries in a blender until smooth. Pour this mixture into a saucepan over medium heat, cooking for about 10-15 minutes until it reduces to around 120g, thickening and enhancing in flavor. Remove from heat and let it cool completely; this strawberry reduction will elevate the taste of your Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
While your strawberry reduction cools, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready for the delicious cookie dough. This preparation will help the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking, resulting in perfectly baked Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature vegan butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a light texture in your Strawberry Sugar Cookies, so ensure it’s well combined and airy to keep the cookies soft.
Step 4: Mix in Strawberry Reduction
Gently fold the cooled strawberry reduction into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor kick. If desired, incorporate a few drops of food coloring to achieve your preferred hue. Mix until fully combined, and the batter takes on a lovely pink color reminiscent of ripe strawberries.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
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 until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this will affect the texture of your Strawberry Sugar Cookies. If you want a bolder color, now is the time to adjust the food coloring to achieve your desired look.
Step 6: Form Cookie Dough Balls
Scoop out approximately two tablespoons of dough for each cookie and roll them into smooth balls. For an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheets. This step adds a delightful texture to the outer layer of your Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
Step 7: Arrange on Sheets
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 5 cm of space between each ball to allow for spreading. If you prefer a chewier texture, lightly flatten each ball with your hand or the bottom of a glass. This will ensure they bake evenly and result in that perfect chewy bite.
Step 8: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are slightly golden while the centers remain soft. Once baked, let the Strawberry Sugar Cookies cool on the sheets for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Strawberry Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain their chewy goodness.
Fridge: Keep cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days, just ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes to revive their soft texture.
What to Serve with Vegan Strawberry Sugar Cookies?
These sweet, chewy delights are perfect for creating a whimsical meal that tantalizes both the eyes and taste buds.
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Creamy Almond Milk: A refreshing, nutty drink that beautifully complements the soft, fruity flavors of these cookies.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this indulgent topping adds a creamy finish that contrasts delightfully with the chewy texture.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the strawberry flavor with additional fruity delights.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The contrast of sweet and salty from the pretzels perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite irresistible.
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Berry Smoothie: A blended drink full of nutrition, this berry smoothie not only complements the cookies but also elevates the fruitiness with a creamy touch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside or on top, the creamy vanilla introduces a satisfying contrast to the chewy cookies and keeps the summer vibes alive.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing, citrusy drink can cleanse the palate beautifully, making every dessert bite feel even more special.
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Chocolate Chunk Brownies: For the ultimate dessert table, pairing these cookies with fudge brownies creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Sugar Cookies
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to ensure precise ingredient measurements, which is key to the texture of your Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
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Control Chewiness: Adjust baking times based on your preference; thinner cookies will bake faster, so keep an eye on them for that perfect chewy bite.
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Troubleshooting Dough: If your dough is too sticky, chill it for a little while. You can also make the dough ahead of time and freeze it before baking.
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Watch the Color: Be cautious with food coloring; too much can cause the cookies to darken during baking. Start with a small amount and adjust until you achieve your desired hue.
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Experiment with Flavors: Swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist. Just remember, this variation on the Strawberry Sugar Cookies will require similar preparation steps for best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Strawberry Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked cookies even on the busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully. Simply scoop and roll the dough balls into sugar, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap. If you prefer a longer storage option, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the fridge or after a quick defrost, and experience the same delightful soft and chewy texture as if freshly made!
Strawberry Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful strawberry sugar cookies your own!
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Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries with freeze-dried fruits or other berries like blueberries or raspberries for uniquely flavored cookies. This variation brings diverse textures and tastes to the table, making each bite an exciting surprise!
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Chocolate Chip Joy: Add vegan chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, gooey treat. The harmonious blend of strawberry and chocolate will absolutely delight your taste buds and certainly impress any dessert lover.
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Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for crunch and additional flavor. Adjust the texture to your liking and explore the magic of nutty goodness blending with strawberries in each cookie!
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, cozy spice note. This twist adds depth to the flavor profile of the cookies, evoking memories of baking in the fall.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of lemon or orange juice and some zest for a refreshing citrus kick. This vibrant flavor pairing will brighten up the strawberry sweetness and elevate the overall experience.
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Sugar-Free Option: For a healthier alternative, swap out the granulated sugar for your favorite sugar substitute. Many compatible products sweeten just as effectively while keeping the cookies deliciously chewy.
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Frosted Delights: Top the cooled cookies with a simple vegan glaze or cream cheese frosting. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and an eye-catching presentation, perfect for parties!
Enjoy these lovely variations alongside other family favorites like Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies or Strawberry Banana Pudding to create an unforgettable sweet spread!
Strawberry Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe. If using fresh strawberries, opt for ones that are ripe, firm, and free of dark spots. For frozen strawberries, make sure they are unsweetened, and remember to thaw before blending. This allows for better flavor and moisture in your Strawberry Sugar Cookies.
How should I store my strawberry cookies?
I recommend storing your Strawberry Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, move them to the fridge, where they’ll last up to 10 days. Just be sure that your container is properly sealed to prevent any drying out!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Very! Freezing your Strawberry Sugar Cookies is a great option for longer storage. To do this, place your unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
My cookies are too flat, what went wrong?
If your cookies are coming out too flat, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure your vegan butter is at room temperature and not melted, as melted butter can cause excessive spread. Additionally, double-check that you’re using the right measurements, especially for the flour; a kitchen scale can be really helpful here! If everything else checks out, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which will help maintain their shape and chewiness.
Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
Great question! This recipe is vegan, so it does not contain eggs or dairy, which is often great for those with allergies. However, always check your ingredients for potential allergens. And while strawberries are safe for dogs, be careful with sugar and other ingredients in the cookies. Better to keep these delightful Strawberry Sugar Cookies just for human consumption!
How long do these cookies last in the freezer?
You can freeze your Strawberry Sugar Cookies for up to 1 month. To maintain the best quality, be sure to store them in an airtight bag or container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, they can be reheated in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that delightful softness!
Chewy Vegan Strawberry Sugar Cookies Bursting with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend fresh or frozen strawberries until smooth, then cook in a saucepan over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until reduced to about 120g.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream vegan butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Fold in the cooled strawberry reduction and vanilla extract with food coloring until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until just incorporated.
- Scoop out two tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and optionally coat with granulated sugar.
- Place dough balls on baking sheets with about 5 cm space in between.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft, then cool for 10 minutes on the sheets.