Irresistible Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Delight in sweet and tangy Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting—perfectly baked treats bursting with fresh flavors! This recipe combines the bright zestiness of lemon and the juicy sweetness of strawberries in a soft, chewy cookie, finished off with a luscious buttercream frosting that balances every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a homemade snack, these cookies are a refreshing twist on classic favorites that will brighten anyone’s day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, refreshing flavors: The combination of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon makes each cookie incredibly vibrant and irresistible.
• Soft and chewy texture: These cookies strike the perfect balance between tender chewiness and just enough crisp around the edges.
• Luscious buttercream frosting: The smooth and sweet frosting enhances the tangy base, creating an irresistible flavor harmony.
• Simple to make: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether for a summer picnic or a special celebration, these cookies add a burst of color and flavor to any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting use simple, quality ingredients that work in harmony to create both their delightful flavor and texture. Each component plays a unique role, from the fresh fruit to the bright lemon zing and creamy frosting.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for soft, chewy cookies.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cookies rise and become fluffy with a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture for a tender texture.
• Granulated sugar and powdered sugar: Sweeten the dough and the frosting perfectly.
• Fresh strawberries: Bring natural sweetness and bright red color.
• Lemon zest and lemon juice: Give the cookies their signature tangy brightness.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to a soft texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm aromatic touch.
• Butter and cream cheese for frosting: Create a smooth, creamy buttercream that complements the cookies’ freshness.

Variations for Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, or the ingredients you have on hand. These cookies can be easily adapted to add your own flair or accommodate special needs.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious allergen-friendly treat.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and vegan cream cheese to make these cookies fully vegan without sacrificing flavor.
• Extra citrus punch: Add a teaspoon of orange zest or more lemon juice for an intensified fruity twist.
• Strawberry jam swirl: Fold in a spoonful of strawberry preserves into the frosting for a berry-packed finish.
• Crunchy addition: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or sliced almonds on top of the frosting for texture and color contrast.

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Start by creaming softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the egg, fresh lemon zest, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in finely chopped fresh strawberries to distribute their juicy sweetness evenly throughout the dough.

Step 2: Shape and chill

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form dough balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing evenly. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes; this step ensures the cookies bake up with the ideal texture and prevents spreading.

Step 3: Bake to perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled dough balls for 10-12 minutes or until the edges just start turning golden. The centers should still look slightly soft for a tender bite. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 4: Make the buttercream frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add cream cheese and continue beating until creamy and smooth. Stir in a splash of lemon juice and a few drops of strawberry extract or puree to enhance the frosting’s fruity, tangy notes. Adjust consistency with a teaspoon of milk if needed.

Step 5: Frost and decorate

Once the cookies are fully cooled, generously pipe or spread the buttercream frosting on top. Optionally, add small fresh strawberry slices or a light sprinkle of lemon zest for a pretty and flavorful finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries: They deliver the best flavor and moisture, making a noticeable difference in your cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until incorporated keeps the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the dough thoroughly: It helps control spreading and preserves that perfect chewy texture.
• Cool cookies completely before frosting: This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off.
• Store frosting in the fridge if needed: It firms up but can be softened before use by letting it sit at room temperature.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Garnishes

Top your cookies with fresh strawberry slices, thin lemon zest curls, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to elevate their presentation and add bursts of freshness at every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a tall glass of homemade lemonade or a chilled iced tea to complement their bright, citrusy flavors perfectly. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit and light pastries.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a vibrant serving platter decorated with lemon slices and strawberry halves for visual appeal. For parties, consider stacking them as cookie towers or placing them in decorative boxes as delightful gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Store in the fridge if you prefer a firmer frosting or if your climate is warm.

Freezing

To freeze, place unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Freeze the buttercream frosting separately in an airtight container. Thaw both before assembling.

Reheating

Warm cookies slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain softness before frosting. Avoid reheating frosted cookies as the buttercream can melt and lose its texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if drained and patted dry thoroughly to avoid extra moisture in the dough.

Is there a dairy-free version of the buttercream frosting?

Yes! You can substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to make the frosting dairy-free while still creamy and delicious.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting remain fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! The buttercream frosting can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and rewhip before using.

What’s the best way to prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the cookie dough before baking is key. Also, avoid over-mixing the dough, and use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to keep the bottoms from spreading unevenly.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemonade Cookies with Buttercream Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the best of fresh fruity flavors and rich, creamy frosting. Easy to make and made from simple ingredients, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy a little taste of sunshine anytime you want!

Related Posts

• Easy Vegan Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe Now
• How to Make Moist Condensed Milk Cake Fast
• Why Everyone Loves Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake

Print