Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe

These Strawberry Crunch Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with strawberry flavor, topped with a delightful crunch layer reminiscent of classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into powder
  • 1/4 cup strawberry gelatin mix (optional for extra flavor and color)

For the Crunch Topping:

  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
  • 1/2 cup vanilla wafer cookies or shortbread cookies, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and gelatin mix (if using).
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

  1. Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
  3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Crunch Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and crushed cookies.
  2. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and holds together slightly.

Step 4: Add the Topping

  1. If desired, drizzle a thin layer of glaze over the cooled cookies.
  2. Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping generously over the glaze while it’s still wet, pressing gently to adhere.
  3. Let the cookies sit until the glaze and topping set.

Tips for Success

  • Crushing freeze-dried strawberries: Use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  • Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Customizing the flavor: Add white chocolate chips or a touch of lemon zest to enhance the strawberry flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

  • Irresistible texture: Soft cookies paired with a crunchy topping.
  • Bursting with strawberry flavor: Thanks to freeze-dried strawberries and optional gelatin.
  • Perfect for any occasion: Great for parties, bake sales, or just as a sweet treat.

Let me know if you’d like an image created for these cookies! 😊

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