Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Cookie Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the large egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries using a rubber spatula.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading.
Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough (or use a 1.5-inch cookie scoop) and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. They may look slightly underbaked in the middle, but will firm up as they cool.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze and Finish
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and strawberry puree (or extract + food coloring) until smooth. Add more lemon juice, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach a pourable but not too thin consistency.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spread the strawberry lemonade glaze over each cookie. Let the glaze set for about 15-20 minutes before serving or storing.
Notes
For the strawberry puree, blend a few fresh strawberries and strain to remove seeds. Freeze-dried strawberries are key for intense flavor and texture without adding excess moisture, ensuring a chewier cookie. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
