These Strawberry Shortcake Valentine Cookies are soft, buttery cookies with sweet strawberry pieces, topped with a light glaze and festive decorations. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with loved ones, they’re as pretty as they are delicious!
Yield
Makes about 24 cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely chopped or crushed
For the Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A few drops of natural pink food coloring or beet juice (optional)
For Decoration
- Edible glitter, white and pink sprinkles, or small candy hearts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Gently fold in the chopped freeze-dried strawberries.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Lightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass to create a smooth surface.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring until smooth and slightly thick.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for thicker glaze).
Step 4: Decorate the Cookies
- Spoon or drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies, allowing it to gently drip over the sides for a decorative effect.
- Sprinkle with edible glitter, pink and white sprinkles, or candy hearts while the glaze is still wet.
- Let the cookies set at room temperature until the glaze is firm, about 30 minutes.
Kitchen Tips
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These add an intense strawberry flavor without extra moisture that could affect the dough.
- Make It Heart-Shaped: Roll out the dough and use heart-shaped cookie cutters for a festive Valentine’s touch.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
These Strawberry Shortcake Valentine Cookies are a showstopper with their delicate pink glaze and sparkly decorations. They’re the perfect way to spread a little love this Valentine’s Day!