Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to share my Strawberry Shortbread Cookies recipe with you! Whenever I think about these little gems, my heart just skips a beat. They’re sweet, colorful, and the perfect treat to brighten up any day. I remember the first time I made these cookies for a summer picnic; it was such a hit that my friends practically begged me for the recipe! The combination of buttery shortbread and fresh strawberries makes these cookies a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up! Whether you’re treating yourself or looking to impress guests, these cookies are sure to leave everyone smiling. I love how the natural sweetness of the strawberries shines through, making them not only a delicious dessert but also a beautiful addition to any dessert table. So, let’s dive into this recipe, and I’ll show you how to bring a little strawberry sunshine into your life!
What’s in Strawberry Shortbread Cookies?
Butter: The star of the show! I always use unsalted butter to have more control over the sweetness of my cookies.
Sugar: Brown sugar works great in this recipe, as it adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the strawberries.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to here. It gives the cookies their structure while keeping them tender.
Cornstarch: A secret ingredient that helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave in shortbread cookies!
Fresh strawberries: These provide the vibrant color and the sweet, fruity flavor. Don’t skimp here; the fresher, the better!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Is Strawberry Shortbread Cookies Good for You?
Let’s face it; these cookies are a treat, not a health food. But hey, the inclusion of fresh strawberries does have its perks!
Fresh Strawberries: Besides their delicious flavor, strawberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. They can help boost your immune system and add a bit of healthiness to an otherwise indulgent treat.
That said, since these cookies do contain sugar and butter, I suggest enjoying them in moderation. There’s no reason to feel guilty while savoring a sweet moment, especially when they’re homemade with love!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup sugar (I prefer brown sugar)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
– A pinch of salt
*This recipe yields about 24 cookies.*
How to Make Strawberry Shortbread Cookies?
1. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes – patience is key here!
2. Next, gently add in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until you form a smooth dough.
3. Now, it’s time to bring in the strawberries! Puree those lovely fresh strawberries and mix them into the dough. You’ll be amazed at how vibrant and colorful it will become.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out shapes. Isn’t it fun to see those pretty pink circles?
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. The smell will have your neighbors knocking on your door!
6. Once they’re baked, let them cool on a wire rack. And voilà! You have delightful strawberry shortbread cookies. For an extra touch, sprinkle with some strawberry powder before serving.
Sweet Tips for Decorating and Enjoying!
– For a fun twist, consider adding some lemon zest to your dough for a zesty kick.
– You could even dip half of the cooled cookies in white chocolate for a pretty and delicious finish.
– Serve them at a garden party or with a glass of lemonade; the colors and flavors are perfect for a sunny day.
I hope you get inspired to make these cookies! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Don’t forget to share your creative touches – I always enjoy seeing how friends add their unique flair! Happy baking! 🍓