Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookies

Name: Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: From the Oven

I love baking, and these Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookies have become a delightful springtime tradition in my kitchen. The combination of fresh strawberries and soft, buttery cookie dough creates a sweet treat that simply melts in your mouth. Every bite bursts with strawberry flavor, making them perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a sunny afternoon with friends. Plus, the pink color from the strawberries adds a beautiful touch to any dessert table, making them as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:01:38.162Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was skeptical about using fresh strawberries in cookies. However, I decided to give it a go, and I’ve never looked back since! The juice from the strawberries infuses the dough with a wonderful flavor, while also keeping the cookies moist and chewy. I recommend using ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

The secret to making these cookies even better is letting the dough chill for about 30 minutes before baking. This step helps the flavors meld and the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Give them a try!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor in every bite
Soft and chewy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Perfectly sweet, making them great for any occasion

The Role of Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are the star of these Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookies, imparting not just flavor but also moisture to the dough. When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe ones, as they provide the most sweetness and vibrant color. The natural juices released while baking enhance the cookies' taste, making them more flavorful. When mashing the strawberries, make sure to achieve a thick puree to prevent the dough from becoming too wet, which can lead to flatter cookies.

In addition to their taste, strawberries contribute to the cookies’ visual appeal. The slight pink hue they add can make your dessert table pop, especially during spring gatherings. If you want to intensify the color, consider adding a touch of natural food coloring, though it's entirely optional. You can also substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist while maintaining the same delicious texture.

Mastering Cookie Texture

Achieving the perfect soft and chewy texture comes down to the creaming process. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, as this incorporates air, allowing the cookies to rise slightly while baking. Watching for the mixture to transition from a heavy, dense consistency to a light appearance is key. Also, remember to avoid over-mixing once you add the dry ingredients; this can develop gluten and lead to tougher cookies.

For an even better texture, consider chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This simple step can enhance the flavor and help the cookies hold their shape better in the oven. If you decide to chill the dough, you may need to add a minute or two to the baking time, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Make sure everything is ready to go before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a small bowl, mash the chopped strawberries with a fork until they form a thick puree. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Mix in the Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating well until combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Strawberries

Gently fold the strawberry puree into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.

Drop the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious strawberry cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!

Pro Tips

For extra strawberry flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of strawberry jam to the dough for a lovely surprise in every cookie.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookies can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy schedules. Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once they're solid. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.

If you'd like to make the dough in advance, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the dough balls before baking; simply scoop them onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time if baking from frozen.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for added richness.

For an extra festive touch, try sprinkling the cookies with powdered sugar right before serving or adding colorful sprinkles to the dough. This adds a fun pop of color and makes them even more appealing for gatherings. Additionally, you can pair them with beverages like lemonade or iced tea to enhance the fresh flavors of spring.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the butter with margarine?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.

→ What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to help it firm up.