Introduction: Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in sweet treats that express love and affection. What better way to celebrate than with homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cookies? These delightful cookies capture the essence of the classic strawberry shortcake in a convenient and shareable form. The buttery cookies are sandwiched with a luscious strawberry filling, creating a treat that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re baking for your significant other, friends, or family, these cookies are sure to make Valentine’s Day extra special.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Important Points:
- Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for a smoother cookie dough. This helps achieve the right texture in the cookies.
- Chilled Dough: After mixing the cookie dough, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilled dough prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking, maintaining a thicker texture.
- Even Sizes: When forming the cookie dough balls, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking. This helps in creating perfect cookie sandwiches.
- Strawberry Filling Consistency: Cook the strawberry filling until it thickens slightly. This ensures that the filling holds together well between the cookie layers.
- Assembly: Once the cookies have cooled, spread the strawberry filling evenly on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another. Gently press together to secure the filling.
- Dusting with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance and added sweetness.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling? A1: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
Q2: How long do these cookies stay fresh? A2: Stored in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
Q3: Can I freeze the cookie dough in advance? A3: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to a month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before baking.
Q4: Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of making the filling? A4: While homemade filling adds freshness, you can use store-bought strawberry jam for convenience. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference.