Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cookies Recipe Here

There’s something magical about biting into a strawberry shortcake cookie that instantly transports you to summer picnics and childhood memories. This best strawberry shortcake cookies recipe combines buttery shortbread, juicy strawberries, and a hint of vanilla in every perfect bite. I’ve been perfecting these cookies for years, and friends, this version is truly something special!

Whether you’re craving homemade strawberry shortcake cookies for a quick dessert or planning to wow guests at your next gathering, these soft, pillowy treats deliver that classic strawberry shortcake experience in convenient cookie form. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to make!

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

These easy strawberry shortcake cookies aren’t just another sweet treat—they’re a game-changer for your dessert repertoire:

✅ Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish!
✅ Perfect balance of textures – crisp edges with soft, tender centers
✅ Uses fresh strawberries for authentic flavor (though frozen work too!)
✅ Impressive enough for guests but easy enough for weeknight baking
✅ Versatile recipe that can be adapted for any season or occasion
✅ Kid-approved yet sophisticated enough for adults
✅ Make-ahead friendly – the dough freezes beautifully!

These cookies capture everything you love about classic strawberry shortcake in a convenient, hand-held format. They’re the best way to make strawberry shortcake cookies at home without any fuss or complicated techniques.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

The secret to the best strawberry shortcake cookies recipe is using quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delectable treats:

For the Cookie Base:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended!)

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced (about 1 pint)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup coarse sugar for sprinkling
• Optional: 1 cup white chocolate chips for drizzling

Ingredient Notes:

• Flour substitution: For gluten-free strawberry shortcake cookies, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend
• Sugar alternatives: Coconut sugar works well for a less refined option
• Strawberry options: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but frozen (thawed and drained) work in a pinch
• Extracts matter: Don’t skip the vanilla extract—it’s essential for that authentic shortcake flavor!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cookies – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps for perfect strawberry shortcake cookies every time! I’ve included key tips at each stage to ensure your cookies turn out magnificent.

Preparing the Strawberries

Step 1: Hull and dice fresh strawberries into small ¼-inch pieces. The smaller the pieces, the better they’ll incorporate into the cookies.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine diced strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir gently to coat.

Step 3: Let strawberry mixture sit for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This draws out some moisture and creates a more concentrated strawberry flavor.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the cornstarch! It helps absorb excess strawberry juice so your cookies don’t become soggy.

Making the Cookie Dough

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 6: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale yellow and noticeably fluffier.

Step 7: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until completely incorporated and smooth.

Step 8: Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix – this can make your cookies tough!

Step 9: Gently fold in the prepared strawberry mixture with a rubber spatula. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

Pro Tip: Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if it feels too soft to work with. This also gives the flavors time to meld together.

Baking the Cookies

Step 10: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough portions (about 2 tablespoons each) onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 11: Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for a beautiful sparkle and subtle crunch.

Step 12: Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft.

Step 13: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tip: For picture-perfect cookies, press a few small pieces of fresh strawberry into the top of each cookie just before baking!

Optional White Chocolate Drizzle

Step 14: Once cookies are completely cooled, melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.

Step 15: Use a fork or spoon to drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cookies. Let set for about 30 minutes before serving.

 

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Want to elevate your strawberry shortcake cookies from good to absolutely incredible? Here are my time-tested secrets for cookie perfection:

Ingredient Tips

• Room temperature ingredients are crucial! Take your butter and egg out of the refrigerator at least 1 hour before baking.
• Pat your strawberries dry after washing to remove excess moisture before dicing.
• Add ¼ teaspoon of strawberry extract along with the vanilla for an even more intense strawberry flavor.
• Use cake flour instead of all-purpose for an extra tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Technique Tips

• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour – this develops gluten and makes cookies tough.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.
• Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for even browning.
• Watch the edges carefully – these cookies are best when slightly underbaked in the center.

Flavor Variations

• Strawberry Lemonade Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough
• Chocolate Strawberry Cookies: Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips with the strawberries
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies: Add ¼ cup cream cheese to the butter and sugar mixture
• Triple Berry Cookies: Replace half the strawberries with a mix of raspberries and blueberries

Pro Tip: What makes strawberry shortcake cookies extra special is the quality of your strawberries. If possible, use in-season, locally grown berries for the most intense flavor!

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

The best way to serve strawberry shortcake cookies is slightly warm, when the strawberry pieces are still juicy and the cookies are tender. Here are some serving suggestions to take these cookies to the next level:

Perfect Pairings

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
• Pair with a cold glass of milk for the classic cookie experience
• Enjoy with afternoon tea or coffee for an elegant treat
• Create strawberry shortcake cookie ice cream sandwiches with vanilla ice cream
• Serve on a dessert platter with fresh strawberries and whipped cream

Occasion Ideas

• Summer picnics: Pack these cookies in a container with parchment between layers
• Baby showers: Perfect for pink-themed celebrations
• Valentine’s Day: Heart-shaped strawberry shortcake cookies make a lovely homemade gift
• Brunch gatherings: Offer as a sweet finish to a casual weekend meal
• Holiday cookie exchanges: A unique addition to traditional cookie platters

Serving Tip: For an extra-special presentation, dust cookies with powdered sugar just before serving, or add a small dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice on top!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your strawberry shortcake cookies can help you enjoy them mindfully. Here’s the approximate nutritional information per cookie (based on a yield of 24 cookies):

• Calories: 175
• Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 75mg

Healthier Variations:

• For a lower-sugar version, reduce granulated sugar to ⅔ cup and use sugar-free white chocolate
• For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil (solid, not melted)
• For a whole grain variation, replace half the all-purpose flour with white whole wheat flour

Remember, these cookies are a treat! Enjoying one with a nutritious meal provides balance while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Storage & Leftovers

Proper storage ensures your strawberry shortcake cookies maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

• Counter storage: Place in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between layers. Best consumed within 2 days.
• Refrigerator storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cold temperature helps preserve the fresh strawberry flavor.
• Freezer storage: Arrange completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment between layers. Frozen cookies keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• To refresh room temperature cookies, warm in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes
• For refrigerated cookies, allow to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving
• Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the refrigerator or for 1-2 hours at room temperature

Pro Tip for Make-Ahead Baking: You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months! Just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time when baking from frozen.

FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw them completely first and drain excess liquid. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the dough to prevent sogginess. Fresh strawberries will always provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen work in a pinch during off-seasons.

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?

Excessive spreading usually happens when the butter is too soft or the dough is too warm. Make sure to chill your dough for at least 15-20 minutes before baking if it feels very soft. Also, ensure your baking sheets are completely cool before adding new batches of dough.

Can I make these strawberry shortcake cookies ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You have several make-ahead options:

1. Prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate
2. Bake the cookies 1 day in advance and store in an airtight container
3. Freeze baked cookies up to 3 months ahead and thaw the day of your event

For the freshest taste, add any white chocolate drizzle or garnishes the day of serving.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free strawberry shortcake cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Brands like King Arthur Measure for Measure or Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour work well. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cookies!

There you have it—the best strawberry shortcake cookies recipe that perfectly balances buttery cookie, fresh strawberries, and sweet vanilla in every bite. These cookies bring together everything wonderful about classic strawberry shortcake in a convenient, handheld treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Whether you’re baking these for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these strawberry shortcake cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles all around. The combination of crisp edges and soft centers, studded with juicy strawberry pieces, makes these cookies truly irresistible.

I’d love to hear how your strawberry shortcake cookies turn out! Leave a comment below with your experience, or tag us in your cookie photos on social media. Happy baking!

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