These delightful Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies will literally melt in your mouth. Perfect for various occasions such as tea parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers, they combine the sweetness of strawberries with a zesty lemon twist. The standout feature is the easy strawberry icing made with fresh strawberries, which elevates these cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor – The combination of fresh strawberries and lemon creates a refreshing taste that’s simply unforgettable.
- Melt-in-your-Mouth Texture – These cookies are designed to be soft and tender, providing a delightful experience with every bite.
- Easy to Make – With straightforward steps and minimal effort required, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday party, brunch, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies suit any event.
- Versatile Icing Options – Customize the icing by adjusting the freshness of strawberries or adding more lemon for an extra zing.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, gather your tools to ensure an efficient process.
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 is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Electric mixer – This tool saves time and effort in creaming butter and sugar to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Baking sheet – A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents warping under high temperatures.
- Parchment paper – Using parchment paper makes it easy to remove cookies from the baking sheet without sticking.
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 Cookies
- 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 Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the very soft butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the creamed butter while mixing on low speed until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated. Gently fold in diced fresh strawberries using a spatula.
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Scoop out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in cane sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
Step 7: Prepare Strawberry Icing
In a small bowl, mix diced strawberries with granulated sugar. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to release juices. Combine this with strawberry syrup, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 8: Ice Your Cookies
Once cooled, drizzle or spread the strawberry icing over each cookie. Let it set before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are a delightful treat that can brighten any occasion. Their light and refreshing taste makes them perfect for various settings, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties.
For Afternoon Tea
- Pair these cookies with a selection of herbal teas for a calming experience. The sweetness of the cookies complements floral or fruity tea varieties beautifully.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookies in clear cellophane and tie with a ribbon. This adds a personal touch and makes for charming party favors at birthdays or bridal showers.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced citrus fruits. The combination enhances the fruity flavors of the cookies and adds color to your presentation.
At a Picnic
- Pack these meltaway cookies in a portable container for an easy dessert option. They hold up well outdoors and will impress your friends with their unique flavor.
During Brunch
- Offer these cookies as a sweet addition to your brunch spread. Pair them with yogurt or pancakes for a delightful twist on traditional brunch items.
How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
To ensure your Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
Use very soft butter – Softened butter is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Leave it at room temperature for about an hour before mixing.
Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping. This prevents packing too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.
Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies light and airy. Overmixing can activate gluten, resulting in tougher cookies.
Chill the dough if necessary – If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 15-30 minutes before rolling into balls. This helps them retain shape while baking.
Adjust lemon juice to taste – Feel free to add more lemon juice for extra tanginess in both the cookie dough and icing, depending on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
These meltaway cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some excellent options:
Fruit Salad – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits complements the cookie’s strawberry flavor while adding freshness.
Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh strawberries for a delightful contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone that balance the sweetness of the cookies without overpowering them.
Iced Tea – A refreshing glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, pairs perfectly with the fruity notes in the cookies.
Cucumber Sandwiches – Light cucumber sandwiches offer a crisp bite that balances the rich, buttery flavor of the meltaway cookies.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – These decadent treats add an indulgent touch while keeping with the strawberry theme of your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Boldly skip the softening step – Using cold butter will not yield the right texture. Ensure your butter is very soft for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Boldly ignore flour measurement – Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour instead of packing it into the cup.
- Boldly overlook strawberry preparation – Not properly dicing strawberries can result in uneven flavor. Make sure to finely dice them for even distribution in the cookies.
- Boldly rush the chilling process – Skipping refrigeration time can lead to cookies spreading too much during baking. Allow them to chill for optimal shape and texture.
- Boldly underestimate baking time – Overbaking can lead to hard cookies. Watch them closely and take them out when they are just set and lightly golden.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen 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 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, placing cookies inside for about 1-2 minutes, covered with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies.
What makes Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies special?
These cookies are unique because they combine fresh strawberries and lemon juice, creating a delightful flavor that truly melts in your mouth.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using them in the cookie dough.
How do I make these cookies dairy-free?
To make Dairy-Free Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding lemon zest, or even using different fruit purees for variation.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! Their light texture and vibrant flavor make them perfect for any occasion, from tea parties to casual get-togethers. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite fruits or zest!
Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies
Indulge in the delightful experience of Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, where every bite melts in your mouth! These cookies beautifully blend the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a zesty lemon twist, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, enjoying a picnic, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress with their light texture and vibrant flavors. Topped with easy strawberry icing made from pureed strawberries and lemon juice, they elevate your dessert game to new heights. Plus, they’re easy to make—ideal for both novice and experienced bakers looking to add a fruity flair to their dessert repertoire.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup very soft butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Sugar for rolling
- ¾ cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2–2 ½ tablespoons fresh strawberry syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 ⅓ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together very soft butter and powdered sugar until fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- In another bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and salt; gradually incorporate into the butter mixture on low speed.
- Stir in vanilla extract and gently fold in diced fresh strawberries.
- Roll small portions of dough into balls and coat with cane sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before icing with strawberry icing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg