Introduction to Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
When the summer heat kicks in, we all crave something refreshing and sweet. Enter Strawberry Lemonade Cookies! These delightful treats perfectly encapsulate the sunny vibes of summer. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy lemon sugar cookie that’s topped with a creamy and vibrant strawberry buttercream. It’s like a mini celebration for your taste buds!
Why Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are the Perfect Summer Treat
These cookies are not just about taste; they embody the spirit of summer gatherings, picnics, and poolside lounging. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet strawberry brings a unique refreshing twist, making them an ideal companion for warm days. Plus, with their cheerful colors and bright flavors, they’ll brighten up any dessert table.
Making strawberry lemonade cookies is also a fantastic way to involve friends and family in the kitchen. Gather everyone around, and you can enjoy the baking experience together! The sweet aroma of cookies in the oven paired with laughter and conversation is just the icing on top.
So, whether you're hosting a barbecue or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to impress. Get ready to dive into this recipe and create your own batch of summer bliss! For more great summer recipes, check out this collection of refreshing summer desserts.
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Creating delectable Strawberry Lemonade Cookies is a delightful adventure, and it all starts with gathering the right ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to create these refreshing treats that perfectly blend tangy lemon and sweet strawberries.
For the Lemon Sugar Cookies
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Essential for that rich base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness that complements the tartness.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma.
- 3 Tablespoons vegetable or canola oil: For moisture and texture.
- 1 large egg + 1 large yolk: These will help bind the cookies.
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice: This enhances the lemon flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of warmth.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: For a soft and tender crumb.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder & ¼ teaspoon baking soda: These leavening agents ensure your cookies rise.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness.
For the Strawberry Buttercream
- 1½ cups freeze-dried strawberries: This is where the magic happens!
- 1 cup unsalted butter: The star ingredient for your frosting.
- 2½ cups powdered sugar: To sweeten and stabilize.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Creates a smooth texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the buttercream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Imparts a delightful flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all flavors.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to whip up some scrumptious strawberry lemonade cookies! If you're curious about where to find high-quality baking supplies, this resource offers great options. Enjoy the cooking process just as much as the delicious outcome!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Baking has a special way of bringing joy, especially when it involves delicious treats like strawberry lemonade cookies. These delightful cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also burst with summery flavors. Here’s a friendly guide to help you through the preparation.
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Start your baking adventure by assembling all the ingredients you’ll need. For the lemon sugar cookies, you will need:
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon zest (fresh is best!)
- Vegetable or canola oil
- Eggs (don't forget the yolk!)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
For the decadent strawberry buttercream, gather:
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream
- Fresh lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Pro tip: This is a great time to measure everything out and prep your workspace—organization is key in the kitchen!
Make the Lemon Sugar Cookie Base
Once you’ve prepped, it’s time to create the cookie base. Melt your butter and set it aside to cool slightly. In a bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest, rubbing them together to release that wonderful lemony fragrance. Whisk together the melted butter, lemon sugar, oil, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla until well-combined and light in color. Then, add in the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated—your dough is almost ready!
Chill the Cookie Dough
Cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, making them thick and chewy. Plus, it gives you a perfect opportunity to tidy up the kitchen!
Bake the Cookies to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you line your baking sheets with parchment paper. After chilling, scoop about three tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them on the prepared baking sheets, giving them enough space to spread. Bake for 12-13 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. Allow them to cool completely—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Prepare the Strawberry Buttercream
While the cookies cool, let’s whip up that luscious strawberry buttercream! Begin by grinding the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. In a stand mixer, cream the butter until smooth, then add in the strawberry powder, powdered sugar, heavy cream, lemon juice, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until it’s beautifully creamy.
Frost and Decorate Your Cookies
Now comes the fun part! Once your cookies have cooled, add a dollop of the strawberry buttercream on each cookie. Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting to the edges, finishing with a pretty swirl. For a delightful final touch, sprinkle some crushed freeze-dried strawberries and a bit of lemon zest on top.
And there you have it: perfectly prepared strawberry lemonade cookies that are sure to impress! Enjoy them with friends, or keep them all to yourself—you deserve it!
Variations on Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
If you're looking to switch things up from the classic strawberry lemonade cookies, here are some delightful variations that keep the same fun flavors while adding an exciting twist.
Lemon Cookies with Raspberry Buttercream
Try substituting the strawberry buttercream with a vibrant raspberry version! By blending fresh or freeze-dried raspberries into your buttercream, you can create a lush pink frosting that perfectly complements the zesty lemon cookie base. This alternative is not only stunning but offers a slightly tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie. It’s a beautiful way to impress at your next gathering and can be a perfect addition for a summer picnic or a casual brunch. For a raspberry buttercream recipe, check out this guide.
Citrus Twist Cookies with Orange Zest
Give your cookies a bright twist with the addition of fresh orange zest! By replacing some of the lemon zest in the cookie dough with orange zest, you can infuse a tropical flair into your dessert. Top them with a light orange-flavored frosting to enhance that citrus goodness. Not only will these cookies become a hit for fans of citrus, but they also evoke a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with iced drinks. Try incorporating this tip into your next baking adventure for a burst of sunshine in every bite!
Baking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Baking strawberry lemonade cookies can be a delightful experience, especially during the warmer months. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time:
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Chill the Dough: Always chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. If you have leftover zest, add it to smoothies or yogurt for an extra zing.
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for that creamy buttercream. This helps achieve a smooth frosting.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Experiment, enjoy, and don't forget to share your cookie creations with friends and family!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
These delightful strawberry lemonade cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a picnic in the park or a cozy evening at home. To elevate your cookie experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
- Pair with Fresh Lemonade: Serve these cookies alongside a glass of homemade lemonade for a refreshing twist. The tartness of the drink complements the cookies beautifully.
- Garnish: Top each cookie with extra freeze-dried strawberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an appealing presentation.
- Create a Dessert Platter: Arrange your cookies with assorted summer fruits like berries and citrus slices. This colorful display will be a hit at any gathering.
By incorporating these touches, you’ll impress your guests and make these cookies the star of the show!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
When you're ready to whip up a batch of strawberry lemonade cookies, it's helpful to plan your time. Here’s how everything breaks down to ensure smooth sailing in the kitchen!
Preparation Time
30 minutes is all you need to gather your ingredients, mix and chill the dough, and prepare your baking sheets. Use this time to soak in the delightful aromas of butter and lemon zest!
Baking Time
With 13 minutes of baking, your kitchen will smell heavenly before you know it. Keep an eye on them as they bake; the edges should turn a lovely golden brown, and the centers will look just right!
Total Time
You're looking at about 1 hour and 13 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparation, chilling, and baking time. Just enough time for a quick break while your cookies bake to get even more excited about the delicious strawberry buttercream topping ahead!
For more tips and the complete recipe for these delicious strawberry lemonade cookies, check out Sweet Kitchen Cravings. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
When indulging in strawberry lemonade cookies, knowing the nutritional content can enhance your baking experience. Each cookie packs approximately:
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Calories: About 150 calories per cookie, making them a delightful treat without too much guilt.
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Protein: They provide around 2g of protein, offering a slight boost to your day.
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Sugar Content: Each cookie contains roughly 10g of sugar, giving you that sweet, refreshing burst.
For more detailed nutritional guidance, consider checking resources like the USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData. Each delicious bite of these cookies offers a balance between sweetness and nutrition, making them perfect for any summer gathering or a midday snack!
FAQs About Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
While fresh strawberries seem tempting, it’s best to stick with freeze-dried strawberries for this cookie recipe. Fresh strawberries contain moisture, which can alter the consistency of your buttercream and affect how well the cookies hold up. Freeze-dried strawberries offer a concentrated flavor and a lovely texture that’s perfect for this recipe.
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your strawberry lemonade cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them for a longer duration, consider freezing them! Just place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper, and they can last up to three months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature for easier scooping and shaping. Enjoy your baking!
Conclusion on Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
In summary, strawberry lemonade cookies are a sensational treat that seamlessly combines sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings or a delightful afternoon snack, these cookies will surely impress. Try making them today, and don’t forget to share your baking experience with friends and family! Enjoy every bite!
Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- whisk
- rubber spatula
- food processor
- Stand Mixer
- cookie scoop
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- oven
Ingredients
For the Lemon Sugar Cookies
- ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick or 113g
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- zest of 1 lemon
- 3 Tablespoons vegetable or canola oil (42g)
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 large yolk at room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300g)
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (10g)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Strawberry Buttercream
- 1½ cups freeze-dried strawberries (33g or 1.2oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature (2 sticks or 226g)
- 2½ cups powdered sugar (300g)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (60mL)
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
For Decorating the Cookies
- freeze-dried strawberries
- lemon zest
Instructions
Lemon Sugar Cookies
- Melt the butter and set aside to cool slightly.
- Combine the sugar and lemon zest with your fingers, rubbing to release the oils in the zest.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon sugar, oil, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla. Continue whisking until the ingredients are incorporated and the mixture lightens in color, about 1 minute.
- Add flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Switch to a rubber spatula and mix in the dry ingredients until everything is fully incorporated.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat and preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Once the dough has chilled, use a #24 cookie scoop (about 3 Tablespoons) to portion the dough. Roll each scoop into a ball and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2” apart. Press each dough ball down with your palm to flatten it slightly. Keep the remaining dough that isn’t baking in the fridge.
- Bake at 350°F for 12-13 minutes or until the centers of the cookies no longer look wet and the edges start to turn golden brown. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
Strawberry Buttercream
- In a food processor, grind the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl with a rubber spatula.
- Add the ground freeze-dried strawberries, powdered sugar, heavy cream, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt, to the bowl. Start mixing on low speed until the ingredients are combined, so the powdered sugar doesn’t spill out. Scrape the bowl well with a rubber spatula.
- Increase to medium speed and mix for 2 minutes. The frosting should be smooth and creamy.
Decorating
- Use a cookie scoop to add a dollop of frosting to the top of each of the cooled cookies. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the frosting out to the edges and finish by making a swirl pattern in the center. Top with crushed freeze-dried strawberries and fresh lemon zest if desired and enjoy!
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