These Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are a delightful treat that will brighten any occasion. With their soft texture and refreshing flavors, they are perfect for summer gatherings, tea parties, or simply a sweet indulgence at home. The unique combination of strawberries and lemon creates a light and zesty flavor, while the meltaway texture makes each bite irresistible. These cookies not only taste amazing but also present beautifully, making them an excellent choice for special events.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture – These cookies offer an incredibly soft and delicate bite that feels luxurious.
- Fresh strawberry icing – The topping is made with real strawberries, adding both flavor and a lovely pop of color.
- Versatile for occasions – Perfect for tea parties, picnics, or casual desserts; they suit various settings.
- Easy to prepare – This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Unique flavor profile – The blend of strawberry and lemon brings a refreshing twist to traditional cookies.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these delicious cookies, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A good mixing bowl provides ample space to combine ingredients without spills.
- Electric mixer – An electric mixer saves time and ensures even mixing for a smoother dough.
- Baking sheet – A sturdy baking sheet helps in even baking and prevents bending or warping.
Ingredients
These fabulous Strawberry Lemonade Meltaway Cookies will literally melt in your mouth. The easy, strawberry icing (made with fresh strawberries) is the crowning glory!
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup very soft butter (I use salted)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (I use Morton’s)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Sugar for rolling (I use cane sugar which is a little coarser than granulated sugar)
For the Strawberry Icing
- ¾ cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2-2 ½ tablespoons fresh strawberry syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (maybe a bit more)
- 1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (maybe a bit more)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
1. Add cornstarch, vanilla extract, and kosher salt; mix until combined.
2. Gradually add flour until just combined.
3. Fold in diced fresh strawberries carefully.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll about a tablespoon of dough into balls.
– Roll each ball in cane sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until slightly golden on the edges.
Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before adding icing.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Icing
While cookies cool, combine diced strawberries with granulated sugar in a small bowl.
– Let sit for about 10 minutes to release juices.
– In another bowl, mix strawberry syrup, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 6: Ice the Cookies
Drizzle or spread icing over cooled cookies. Allow icing to set before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Serving Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies can enhance any gathering. Their delightful flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a perfect treat for various occasions.
At a Tea Party
- Elegant Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a tiered cake stand for a charming display.
- Pair with Tea: Serve alongside a selection of herbal or fruity teas to complement the strawberry flavor.
As a Snack
- Mid-Afternoon Delight: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of lemonade for a refreshing snack.
- Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise that kids will love.
For Birthdays
- Creative Decorations: Use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make these cookies festive.
- Cookie Favors: Wrap them individually in clear bags tied with ribbons as party favors.
During Holidays
- Seasonal Touch: Add holiday-themed decorations like icing shapes or chocolate drizzle to match the occasion.
- Gift Giving: Present them in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts.
How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
To achieve the best Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, follow these simple tips that ensure delicious results every time.
- Use Soft Butter: Ensuring your butter is very soft will help create that meltaway texture.
- Fresh Strawberries Matter: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the icing. They provide better flavor than frozen ones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can alter the desired texture.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain shape during baking.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to your dessert table.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Lemonade Spritzer: A bubbly lemonade drink enhances the lemon flavor while keeping things light and refreshing.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy counterpart to your sweet treats.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add elegance and a touch of decadence that pairs well with strawberry flavors.
- Mini Sandwiches: Lightly flavored sandwiches offer a savory contrast, making them perfect alongside sweet cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies can be a joyous experience, but there are common mistakes that may hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter will not mix well with sugar, leading to dense cookies. Always use very soft butter for the best texture.
- Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch is essential for achieving that meltaway texture. Do not omit it; it helps create a tender cookie.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep your cookies light and airy.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
- Neglecting the cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet is crucial. If you ignore this step, they may break apart when moved too soon.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Warm cookies for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies?
To make these delicious cookies, start by creaming soft butter and powdered sugar together. Then, add vanilla extract and salt before incorporating flour and cornstarch. Finally, fold in fresh strawberries before rolling into balls and baking.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to your dough.
How long do Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies last?
These cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer when stored properly.
What is the best way to serve these cookies?
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are perfect for tea parties, picnics, or simply as a delightful treat with coffee. Their bright flavor pairs well with citrus drinks!
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are a delightful treat that melts in your mouth with every bite! With their light texture and fresh flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding other fruits or adjusting the lemon juice for extra zing! Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a burst of summer in every cookie!
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, a perfect treat for summer gatherings or a cozy day at home. These cookies feature a melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with the delightful flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon, creating a light and airy experience that’s hard to resist. Topped with a luscious strawberry icing made from real fruit, they not only taste incredible but also look stunning on any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply enjoying an afternoon snack, these cookies will elevate any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup very soft butter (salted)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup diced fresh strawberries (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons fresh strawberry syrup (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for icing)
- 1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add cornstarch, vanilla extract, and kosher salt; mix until combined. Gradually add flour and fold in diced strawberries.
- Roll about one tablespoon of dough into balls, coat in cane sugar, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are slightly golden. Cool completely before icing.
- For the icing, mix diced strawberries with granulated sugar; let sit to release juices. Combine strawberry syrup, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth; drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use very soft butter for the best meltaway texture. Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor; if using frozen ones, thaw and drain excess moisture first. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking for better cookie shape.