Desserts

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies

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Strawberry Lemonade Cookies bring together the best of summer in one delightful treat. The lemon sugar cookies are perfectly chewy, infused with citrus zest for a bright flavor, and topped with a luscious strawberry buttercream. The frosting gets its vibrant hue and flavor from real freeze-dried strawberries, creating a naturally tangy topping that pairs beautifully with the subtle tartness of the cookies. These cookies are ideal for summer picnics, pool parties, or any occasion where a refreshing, fruity dessert is a must. They’re easy to make and even easier to love, especially with their stunning presentation of pink frosting swirls and sprinkles of crushed strawberries and lemon zest.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Sugar Cookies:

  • ½ cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 large egg + 1 large yolk, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon (10g) cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Buttercream:

  • 1½ cups (33g or 1.2oz) freeze-dried strawberries
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2½ cups (300g) powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup (60mL) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For Decorating:

  • Additional freeze-dried strawberries
  • Lemon zest

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
    Melt butter and let it cool slightly. Combine sugar and lemon zest by rubbing them together to release the oils. Whisk in melted butter, oil, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Bake the Cookies:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop chilled dough (about 3 tablespoons each) onto the sheets, spacing 2” apart. Flatten slightly and bake for 12–13 minutes, until edges are golden. Cool completely.
  3. Make the Buttercream:
    Grind freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Beat butter until smooth, then add strawberry powder, powdered sugar, cream, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Beat until creamy and fluffy.
  4. Decorate:
    Spread frosting on cooled cookies with a spatula, creating decorative swirls. Top with crushed freeze-dried strawberries and lemon zest.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 13 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 13 minutes | Calories: 220 kcal | Servings: 15 cookies

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies: A Vibrant Summer Delight

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are a true embodiment of summer flavors. Combining the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet, refreshing notes of strawberries, these cookies offer a delightful treat that is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. Perfect for summer parties, brunches, or as an indulgent snack, these cookies evoke the joy of sipping a cold glass of strawberry lemonade on a warm, sunny day.

The cookie base itself is a soft and chewy lemon sugar cookie, infused with the vibrant zest and juice of fresh lemons. This creates a bright and zesty foundation that perfectly complements the sweet and slightly tangy strawberry buttercream frosting. The frosting owes its unique flavor and rosy pink hue to finely ground freeze-dried strawberries, a magical ingredient that concentrates the fruit’s essence without adding any excess moisture. Together, these elements create a harmonious balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors.

A Unique Blend of Textures and Flavors

The texture of these cookies is part of what makes them so special. They are soft, slightly cakey, and perfectly chewy, striking a balance that appeals to a wide variety of palates. The base reminds many of the popular Lofthouse-style cookies, but with a denser structure akin to a Crumbl cookie, giving them a satisfying bite. The strawberry buttercream adds a creamy, silky contrast to the cookie’s crumbly texture, enhancing the eating experience with every bite.

What truly sets these cookies apart is their natural, vibrant flavor. Fresh lemon zest and juice provide a sharp citrus kick, while the freeze-dried strawberries in the frosting contribute an intense berry flavor without the added moisture of fresh or frozen berries. This results in a frosting that is smooth, stable, and bursting with real strawberry essence.

The Role of Freeze-Dried Strawberries

Freeze-dried strawberries are a game-changer in this recipe. Unlike fresh or frozen berries, they contain no additional water, making them ideal for baked goods and frostings where excess liquid can be problematic. Grinding them into a fine powder ensures that their flavor is evenly distributed throughout the buttercream, creating a bold strawberry taste and an all-natural pink color. This is not only visually appealing but also a healthier alternative to artificial food colorings.

Additionally, freeze-dried strawberries offer convenience. They are shelf-stable and readily available in most grocery stores or online. For home bakers, they provide an easy way to incorporate authentic fruit flavors into recipes without worrying about the seasonality of fresh produce.

Versatility and Customization

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the combination of lemon and strawberry is a classic summer pairing, the cookies can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions. For instance, the freeze-dried strawberries in the buttercream can be substituted with other freeze-dried fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Each variation offers a unique twist while maintaining the refreshing essence of the original recipe.

The cookies themselves are also adaptable. Home bakers can experiment with adding poppy seeds or chia seeds to the dough for a bit of texture or incorporating white chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence. For a more sophisticated presentation, the cookies can be piped with intricate frosting designs or garnished with edible flowers and herbs like mint or basil.

Serving and Storage Tips

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature when the buttercream is at its creamiest. They pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, from hot tea and coffee to iced lemonade or sparkling water. Their bright and cheerful appearance also makes them an ideal addition to dessert platters, party trays, or gift boxes.

For optimal freshness, the cookies should be stored in an airtight container. While they can be kept at room temperature for up to three days, refrigerating them will extend their shelf life to five days. If refrigerated, it’s best to bring the cookies to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their soft texture and creamy frosting.

For those who love to plan ahead, these cookies are freezer-friendly. They can be frozen, fully decorated, in a single layer in an airtight container for up to three months. Before serving, let them thaw at room temperature and add any final touches like fresh lemon zest or crushed freeze-dried strawberries for garnish.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Summer

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies capture the essence of summer in both flavor and presentation. Their bright lemony base and vibrant pink frosting evoke the carefree, joyful spirit of the season. The combination of citrus and berry flavors feels light and refreshing, making these cookies a great alternative to heavier desserts like chocolate brownies or rich cakes.

They’re also a hit at gatherings. Their stunning appearance and unique flavor profile make them a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser. Whether served at a picnic, barbecue, or bridal shower, they bring a touch of elegance and playfulness to any occasion.

Conclusion:

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are more than just a dessert they’re an experience. From their vibrant colors and refreshing flavors to their perfectly balanced textures, these cookies are a testament to the joy of baking and the magic of combining simple, high-quality ingredients.

Their versatility allows for endless creativity, making them a favorite among seasoned bakers and novices alike. So, whether you’re looking to impress guests, satisfy a sweet tooth, or simply enjoy a taste of summer, Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are a perfect choice.

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