Description
Delightfully buttery and crisp Strawberry Shortbread Cookies made with freeze-dried strawberries, these cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and a subtle fruity twist. Ideal for a simple yet elegant dessert or tea-time treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the strawberry essence.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt to evenly distribute the ingredients and ensure a consistent texture.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar while mixing gently, until a soft, cohesive dough forms without overworking it.
- Incorporate Strawberries: Fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries carefully to evenly spread their flavor and color throughout the dough without adding moisture.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet, and gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass to the desired thickness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookie edges are just lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly baked for a tender, crumbly texture.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to maintain their crispness.
Notes
- Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred as they provide vibrant strawberry flavor without adding moisture that could alter the cookie texture.
- For added sweetness and a decorative finish, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp and fresh for several days.
