Strawberry Butter Cookies

Strawberry Butter Cookies are a delightful combination of rich, buttery flavor and sweet strawberry jam filling. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these delectable cookies and provide you with useful tips to ensure your baking success.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the baking process, gather the following ingredients to ensure a smooth experience.

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup softened butter
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Jam Filling:

• ¾ cup jam (or a thickened version with ½ tbsp cornstarch)

For the Buttercream:

• ¾ cup butter
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your Strawberry Butter Cookies from scratch.

Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix Ingredients: Beat the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
2. Add Flour: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Roll and Chill:

3. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each half into a disk for even rolling. Roll out each disk between two sheets of parchment paper to about ⅛ inch thickness. This prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to handle.
4. Chill: Transfer the rolled-out dough to the refrigerator and let it chill for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps maintain the cookies’ shape during baking.

Cut and Bake:

5. Cut Cookies: Use a round cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the chilled dough. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create windows. This will form the top layer of your sandwich cookies.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Assemble Cookies:

7. Make Buttercream: In a bowl, beat the butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using), and continue to mix until smooth and creamy.
8. Pipe Frosting: Transfer the buttercream into a piping bag. Pipe a ring of frosting around the edge of the bottom cookies. This creates a barrier to hold the jam filling.
9. Fill with Jam: Fill the center of the bottom cookie with jam. Gently press the cookie with a cut-out window on top to form a sandwich.

Finish:

10. Dust with Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the finished cookies for a touch of elegance and added sweetness.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your treats can help you enjoy them in moderation. Here are the approximate nutrition facts per cookie:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 8g

How to Serve

Strawberry Butter Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions and settings. Here are some creative ways to serve these delightful cookies, ensuring that they shine in any context.

Afternoon Tea

One of the most charming ways to enjoy Strawberry Butter Cookies is by incorporating them into an afternoon tea spread. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies complements the delicate nature of tea, creating a harmonious balance.

• Tea Pairings: Choose a fragrant Earl Grey or a fruity herbal tea to enhance the strawberry flavor. For a more robust experience, a classic English Breakfast tea can also work well. Consider offering a variety of teas to cater to different palates.
• Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a tiered cake stand alongside finger sandwiches, scones, and other sweet treats. Dusting the cookies with powdered sugar or drizzling them with a light glaze can add an elegant touch. Fresh strawberries as a garnish can elevate the presentation and tie in the cookie’s flavor.
• Atmosphere: Create a cozy setting with soft music, inviting tableware, and perhaps a floral centerpiece. This ambiance will make the afternoon tea experience feel special and memorable.

Gift Idea

Strawberry Butter Cookies make for an excellent homemade gift, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a gesture of appreciation.

• Packaging: Select decorative tins or boxes that reflect the theme or occasion. Consider using clear cellophane bags tied with a colorful ribbon for a more casual approach. Adding a personalized note or card can make the gift even more heartfelt.
• Seasonal Touches: For holidays, customize the packaging with seasonal decorations, like autumn leaves for Thanksgiving or vibrant colors for a summer gathering. You could also include a few extra items in the package, such as a small jar of homemade strawberry jam or a selection of teas to accompany the cookies.
• Batch Preparation: Baking a larger batch allows you to set aside some for personal enjoyment while also preparing gifts. Just be sure to store the cookies properly to maintain their freshness for gifting.

Dessert Plate

Serving Strawberry Butter Cookies as part of a dessert plate can elevate any meal, making it a delightful ending to a dinner party or family gathering.

• Accompaniments: Pair the cookies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream to complement their flavor. Alternatively, fresh fruits such as berries or a fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast. For an indulgent twist, drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the cookies or ice cream.
• Layered Presentation: Create a visually appealing dessert plate by layering the cookies alongside other desserts, like mini cheesecakes, chocolate mousse, or panna cotta. Use garnishes like mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal and add a pop of color.
• Themed Events: Tailor the dessert plate to suit specific themes or occasions. For instance, for a summer barbecue, include light, fruity desserts alongside the cookies, or for a winter gathering, pair them with spiced desserts and warm beverages.

By incorporating these serving suggestions into your enjoyment of Strawberry Butter Cookies, you can create memorable experiences that highlight their delightful flavor and versatility. Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, preparing a thoughtful gift, or crafting a stunning dessert plate, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.

Additional Tips for Success

Enhance your cookie-making process with these additional tips to elevate your baking game and ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Temperature Matters

The temperature of your ingredients can significantly affect the final texture of your cookies. When using butter, it’s crucial to have it softened rather than melted. Softened butter should be at room temperature—this means it can be easily pressed with a finger but still holds its shape. When butter is melted, it can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking, resulting in a thin, crispy texture rather than the desired chewy or fluffy consistency. To soften butter quickly, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or you can microwave it in short bursts of 5 seconds, just until it’s softened but not melted.

Chill Properly

Chilling your cookie dough is a step that should never be overlooked. This process not only helps in maintaining the shape of the cookies but also enhances the flavors. When dough is chilled, the fat solidifies, which reduces spreading and allows the cookies to maintain their structure while baking. Additionally, chilling the dough allows the flour to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld, resulting in a richer taste. Aim to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes, but for even better results, consider refrigerating it for a few hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also place the dough in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes.

Flavor Variations

While classic cookies are delightful, experimenting with flavor variations can take your baking to a whole new level. Consider incorporating different types of jams, such as raspberry, apricot, or even a spicy ginger jam, to provide a unique twist to your cookies. You can also add a hint of lemon zest to the dough, which infuses a refreshing citrus flavor that balances well with sweeter elements. Other flavor additives to consider include vanilla extract, almond extract, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits can also complement your cookie dough, providing texture and additional flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative—baking is as much about personal expression as it is about following recipes!

Storage

Proper storage is essential for keeping your cookies fresh and maintaining their texture. Once your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help to keep them soft and chewy. If you prefer crisp cookies, consider storing them in a container that allows for some air circulation. For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume cookies within a week, but if you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. To enjoy your frozen cookies later, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their delicious texture.

By incorporating these additional tips into your cookie-baking routine, you’ll not only enhance the quality and flavor of your cookies but also create an enjoyable and rewarding baking experience. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture for these cookies.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough and ensuring your baking sheet isn’t too warm can help prevent excessive spreading.

4. Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, these cookies can be frozen. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, using parchment paper to separate layers.

Conclusion

Strawberry Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery flavors of the dough with the sweetness of strawberry jam. These cookies are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate, making them a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this simple recipe allows you to craft something special without requiring advanced techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

One of the most appealing aspects of strawberry butter cookies is their versatility. While the classic recipe calls for strawberry jam, you can easily substitute it with other flavors like raspberry, apricot, or even citrus marmalade for a unique twist. The buttery base pairs beautifully with any fruit preserve, allowing you to tailor the cookies to suit your preferences or the occasion. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate on top can add an elegant finish, perfect for serving at parties or celebrations.

These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re also incredibly easy to make. With a few basic ingredients such as butter, sugar, flour, and strawberry jam, you can whip up a batch in no time. The process is straightforward: prepare the dough, shape it into thumbprint-like indentations, fill them with jam, and bake. The result is a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie with a delightful burst of fruity sweetness in every bite.

Strawberry butter cookies are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking to add something special to your holiday cookie tray, preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply treating yourself, these cookies fit the bill. Packaged in a decorative tin or cellophane bag, they make charming presents for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or as a thank-you gift. Their homemade touch conveys care and thoughtfulness, making them even more meaningful to the recipient.

These cookies also store well, maintaining their flavor and texture for several days when kept in an airtight container. This makes them a great option for preparing in advance, whether for gifting or for a planned gathering. They can even be frozen to extend their shelf life, allowing you to enjoy a fresh batch whenever you like.

Baking strawberry butter cookies is not just about the end product—it’s also about the experience. The process of creating these cookies, from creaming the butter to carefully spooning jam into each indentation, is both relaxing and rewarding. The aroma of butter and strawberries filling your kitchen adds an extra layer of comfort and joy to the baking experience.

In conclusion, strawberry butter cookies are a wonderful combination of rich, buttery dough and sweet, fruity jam that can brighten any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in them yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture that is sure to please. By following a simple recipe and adding your personal touch, you can create a batch of cookies that not only taste amazing but also showcase your creativity and love for baking. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy both the process and the delicious results of making these delightful strawberry butter cookies!

Print