Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

These delightful Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies will literally melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also boast a refreshing flavor that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the zing of lemon. The unique strawberry icing made with fresh strawberries adds an irresistible touch, making these cookies a standout treat for tea parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are soft and buttery, providing a delightful experience with every bite.
• Refreshing flavor: The combination of strawberries and lemon creates a unique taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
• Versatile serving options: Great for tea parties, brunches, or as an afternoon snack, they fit perfectly into any gathering.
• Simple ingredients: Made with common pantry items, you can whip them up anytime you crave something sweet.
• Easy to decorate: The strawberry icing is simple to prepare, allowing you to customize the look and taste of your cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light texture for the cookies.

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Ingredients

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: Mix the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the very soft butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add in the cornstarch, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and all-purpose flour. Mix until just combined.
3. Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries.

Step 3: Shape and Roll Cookies

1. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Roll each ball in 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 the edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Prepare Strawberry Icing

While cookies cool:
1. In a bowl, combine diced strawberries with granulated sugar; let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Add fresh strawberry syrup, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla to form a smooth icing.

Step 6: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, drizzle or spread icing over each cookie. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

These delightful Strawberry Lemonade Meltaway Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just want to enjoy a sweet treat, serving suggestions can enhance the experience.

At a Tea Party

• Offer these cookies alongside an assortment of teas for a refreshing pairing. Their light flavor complements both black and herbal teas beautifully.

As Dessert After Dinner

• Serve the cookies on a decorative platter after dinner. They provide a light, sweet finish that won’t feel heavy post-meal.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair these cookies with slices of fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits. This combination adds a fresh burst of flavor to your dessert table.

At Picnics

• Pack these meltaway cookies in your picnic basket. They are easy to transport and will delight guests with their unique taste.

As Gifts

• Wrap these cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming homemade gifts. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

Getting the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture for your Strawberry Lemonade Meltaway Cookies is all about technique and attention to detail.

• Use very soft butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to mix smoothly, creating the right crumb texture.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision. This helps maintain the cookie’s structure.
• Incorporate strawberries gently: Fold diced strawberries into the dough carefully to avoid breaking them down too much, preserving their freshness.
• Chill the dough if needed: If the dough becomes too soft while mixing, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
• Watch baking time closely: Bake until just set; they should look slightly underbaked as they continue to firm up after removing from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

These cookies can be wonderfully complemented by side dishes that enhance their flavors and create an exciting meal or snack experience.

1. Fresh Berry Salad: A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries tossed with mint leaves adds a refreshing touch.
2. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies, providing a balanced dessert option.
3. Iced Tea: Serve chilled iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened) as a refreshing drink that highlights the lemonade flavor in the cookies.
4. Fruit Platter: An assortment of sliced melons, oranges, and kiwi offers vibrant colors and flavors that complement the cookies nicely.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit; it creates a delicious contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
6. Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a cheese board; their creaminess balances perfectly with the cookie’s sweetness.
7. Mini Quiches: Light mini quiches filled with spinach or cheese serve as savory bites that pair well with sweet desserts like these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using cold butter: Ensure your butter is very soft for the best texture. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies instead of melt-in-your-mouth delights.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than light and airy ones.
• Skipping the rolling sugar step: Rolling the cookies in sugar before baking adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Don’t skip this crucial step!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science! Use precise measurements, especially for flour and powdered sugar, to achieve perfect cookies.
• Ignoring chilling time: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain shape during baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds; do not overheat or they may become dry.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through, with occasional flipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies? Here are some answers!

What makes Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies unique?

These cookies have a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth, enhanced by fresh strawberry icing that adds a burst of flavor.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes! However, ensure they are well-drained and chopped finely before adding them to the cookie dough.

How can I customize these cookies?

Feel free to experiment with different fruit flavors or extracts. Adding lemon zest can give an extra zing!

Are Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies suitable for parties?

Absolutely! Their unique taste and beautiful appearance make them perfect for any gathering or tea party.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemonade Melt Away Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. They fit perfectly into any occasion—from tea parties to casual treats. Enjoy experimenting with flavors or serving them alongside your favorite beverages!