Name: Decadent Strawberry Shortcake Cookies You’ll Crave Again!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Baking Mix; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; ½ cup Half and Half (Can substitute with whole milk); ½ cup Salted Butter (Melted); 1 cup Chopped Strawberries (Fresh; drain well if using frozen); ½ cup White Chocolate Chips (Optional); 2 tablespoons Coarse Raw Cane Sugar (Can use regular sugar)

As I was rummaging through my pantry on a sunny afternoon, I stumbled upon a pint of fresh strawberries begging to be used. That’s when the idea hit me: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies! Combining the buttery goodness of classic cookies with real strawberry chunks, this recipe is a delightful twist on the dessert that we all adore. Not only are these Strawberry Shortcake Cookies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also promise to win over hearts at any gathering. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, moist center full of fruity bursts—pure bliss! Ready to bake something extraordinary? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why Are Strawberry Shortcake Cookies Irresistible?

Uniquely Delicious: These cookies capture all the deliciousness of traditional strawberry shortcake in a portable form. Fresh Strawberries: The inclusion of real strawberry chunks guarantees a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Quick to Make: In less than 30 minutes, you can have these delightful treats ready for your family or guests. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their buttery, sweet taste makes them a hit at any gathering, whether paired with tea or as a stand-alone dessert. If you love cookies, you’ll also want to check out my Honey Cookies Chewy and Brown Butter Cookies for more scrumptious ideas!

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Baking Mix – Use this to provide structure and texture, ensuring your cookies are biscuit-like.
• Granulated Sugar – This adds just the right sweetness to elevate the flavors of your cookie.
• Half and Half – Moistens the dough and keeps the cookies tender; feel free to substitute with whole milk if needed.
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and depth; if you only have unsalted butter, just add a pinch of salt for balance.

For the Fruity Goodness
• Chopped Strawberries – Fresh strawberry chunks provide a delightful burst of flavor; if using frozen, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
• White Chocolate Chips – These introduce creamy sweetness; for a different flair, you can swap with dark chocolate or skip them for a less sweet cookie.

For the Topping (optional)
• Coarse Raw Cane Sugar – Sprinkling this on top adds texture and a delightful crunch; regular sugar works just as well if you don’t have it.

Tantalizing and simple, these Strawberry Shortcake Cookies are sure to steal the show!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, line two cookie sheets with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release of your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies once baked. The parchment paper will help prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose baking mix and granulated sugar until well blended. This step ensures that the sweetener and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is vital for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Set this mixture aside while you gather the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the half and half and melted salted butter into your flour mixture. Using a spatula, mix gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it; your goal is a tender dough that will bake into delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Fruits and Chips
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and white chocolate chips, mixing just until combined. Take care not to overmix, as this could alter the color of your cookies and make them appear pink. The aim is to distribute the juicy strawberry pieces evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Portion the Dough
Using a medium cookie scoop, carefully place 12 portions of dough onto each prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart to allow for spreading. For a delightful finish, you may sprinkle coarse raw cane sugar on top of each dough ball, adding a crunchy texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cookies; they should be set around the edges and lightly golden on top. This is a crucial step in achieving that perfect texture—slightly crunchy outside, soft and moist inside.

Step 7: Cool on Sheets
Once baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. This cooling period allows the cookies to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Be patient—this will prevent breakage and produce beautifully intact Strawberry Shortcake Cookies.

Step 8: Glaze for Extra Delight
While the cookies cool completely, prepare the optional glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of remaining half and half until smooth and drizzle-able. Once your cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the sweet glaze over them, enhancing their appeal and flavor, making them irresistible!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating strawberries into the dough, mix gently to prevent the cookies from turning pink and to keep their beautiful appearance.
Watch the Bake Time: Cookies continue to cook while cooling, so remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set and lightly golden for the perfect texture.
Choose Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries deliver the best flavor; if using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies.
Check Oven Accuracy: Every oven is different! Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is spot on, helping your cookies bake uniformly.
Customize Your Cookies: Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate chips or nuts for added texture, giving your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies a delightful twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Shortcake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a cookie sheet and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. To maintain that fresh-from-the-oven flavor and texture, don’t freeze the dough; however, you can freeze the baked cookies without glaze for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and drizzle with glaze before serving for delightful, just-as-delicious treats!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies without glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can drizzle with glaze once thawed for that extra touch!

Reheating: If desired, reheat frozen cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a preheated oven (350°F) for 5-7 minutes for a warm, delightful treat.

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies to suit your taste and elevate your baking experience!

Blueberry Twist: Replace strawberries with blueberries for a delightful burst of flavor that’s just as refreshing.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the cookies.
Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut milk to create a creamy base that’s free of dairy, perfect for those with lactose intolerance.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate pieces for a richer taste. The contrast between the fruity strawberries and chocolate makes each bite divine!
Lemon Zest: Elevate the flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a zesty kick. This brightens up the sweetness and adds an unexpected twist.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top in place of glaze for a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruity cookies.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix instead of regular to make these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet while keeping the flavor intact.

Feel free to experiment with these variations! Each unique twist transforms the recipe and makes it your own. For more delicious cookie inspirations, don’t miss my Brownie Cookie Cookies or your taste buds will love my Chewy Gluten Cookies!

What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cookies?

Imagine a sunny afternoon, your home filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies, inviting family and friends to gather around the table.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits enhances the cookie’s strawberry flavors, creating a bright, vibrant pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and contrasts wonderfully with the cookies’ soft texture, inviting blissful bites.
Whipped Cream Topping: Serve a dollop of homemade whipped cream alongside for a light, airy complement to the buttery cookies.

For a little more indulgence, consider pairing these cookies with a sparkling drink:

Sparkling Lemonade: The tartness pairs perfectly with the cookie’s sweetness, offering a crisp and fizzy contrast that will delight your taste buds.
Iced Coffee: A chilled cup of coffee enhances the cookies’ buttery notes while providing a subtle caffeine kick—perfect for an afternoon treat.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea will balance the sweetness of the cookies with its earthy nuance, perfect for a cozy gathering.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: As an added treat, fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate echo the cookie’s flavors, making every bite a celebration!
Chocolate Truffles: Rich, creamy truffles elevate dessert time, intensifying the sweet experience and providing a luxurious feel alongside the cookies.

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red all over, firm to the touch, and have a fresh, sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or that feel mushy, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh strawberries will enhance the flavor and texture of your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies.

How should I store Strawberry Shortcake Cookies, and how long do they last?
Store your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If the cookies are in a humid environment, consider placing a piece of bread in the container to help maintain their softness.

Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cookies, and what’s the best way to do it?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cookies without glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then drizzle with glaze for an extra touch of sweetness!

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies are dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure flour accurately and always check your cookies 1-2 minutes before recommended bake time to prevent dryness. If they do turn out dry, a quick drizzle of glaze can add moisture and flavor back in.

Can these cookies be made with dietary restrictions in mind?
Very! For dairy-free versions, you can substitute half and half with almond or coconut milk, and use vegan butter in place of regular butter. Just ensure your white chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. Also, for those with nut allergies, you can simply omit any added nuts for a safe and delectable treat!

What if I only have regular all-purpose flour instead of baking mix?
Not to worry! If you only have plain all-purpose flour, you can create a similar texture by adding 1 tablespoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt per cup of flour. Mix this well before combining with the other ingredients to ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Cookies rise beautifully.