These Strawberry Crunch Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet strawberry flavor! Topped with a crunchy crumble layer, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Follow this detailed guide to create these delicious treats with ease.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Strawberry Crunch Cookies combine the rich flavors of strawberry and vanilla with a delightful crunch. Their vibrant color and unique topping make them stand out on any dessert table. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Great for desserts, snacks, or gifting.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different flavors or toppings.
Ingredients Overview
Cookies:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix: The base for our cookie dough, providing the vibrant strawberry flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
- 2 large eggs: Ensures a soft and chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed: Provides an intense strawberry crunch.
- 1/2 cup crushed Golden Oreos: Adds a sweet, creamy vanilla note.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping ingredients together.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls: Large and medium-sized for dough and topping preparation.
- Baking Sheet: To bake the cookies.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For evenly portioned cookies.
- Wire Rack: To cool the cookies completely.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The dough will be thick, so use a sturdy spoon or spatula for mixing.
Step 3: Scoop the Dough
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Step 4: Make the Crunch Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed Golden Oreos, and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Step 5: Add the Crunch Topping
Gently press the crunch topping onto the top of each cookie dough ball. Be generous to ensure every bite has a delightful crunch.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly puffed. Avoid overbaking to maintain the cookies’ soft texture.
Step 7: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up slightly before moving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these cookies fresh for the best flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cookies
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter and cake mix can make a noticeable difference.
- Crush Toppings Evenly: Use a food processor or a rolling pin to achieve a uniform crumb size.
- Don’t Overbake: Watch the cookies closely; they’re done when the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
- Customize the Topping: Swap Golden Oreos for graham crackers or add white chocolate chips for extra decadence.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate-strawberry twist.
- Festive Colors: Mix in colorful sprinkles for holidays or special occasions.
- Lemon Infusion: Replace vanilla extract with lemon extract for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried ones?
A: Fresh strawberries contain moisture, which can alter the topping’s texture. Stick to freeze-dried for the best crunch.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes! Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: How do I crush the freeze-dried strawberries and Golden Oreos?
A: Place them in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin, or pulse in a food processor until crumbly.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and gluten-free sandwich cookies for a gluten-free version.
Q: What can I use instead of Golden Oreos?
A: Graham crackers or vanilla wafers are great alternatives.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie contains approximately 140 calories, making them a delightful yet guilt-free treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic combo.
- Serve as part of a dessert platter with other cookies and bars.
- Pack them as a sweet treat for picnics or road trips.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 1 week.
- Freezing Dough: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months and bake as needed.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a satisfying crunch. Their vibrant flavor, eye-catching appearance, and ease of preparation make them a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking for a party or indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible cookies today!
Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Make these Strawberry Crunch Cookies in just 30 minutes! Soft, chewy cookies with a sweet crunch topping, perfect for any occasion
Ingredients
Cookies:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1/2 cup crushed Golden Oreos
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prepare Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until a thick dough forms. - Portion Dough:
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to form dough balls. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. - Prepare Crunch Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed Golden Oreos, and melted butter until crumbly. - Add Topping:
Press a small amount of the topping onto each cookie dough ball. - Bake:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the tops are slightly puffed. - Cool:
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. - Serve:
Enjoy fresh, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Notes
- Ensure Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly-sized cookies that bake consistently.
- Crunchy Topping: For extra crunch, press additional topping onto the cookies after baking while theyu2019re still warm.
- Alternative Flavors: Swap the freeze-dried strawberries with other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries for a variation.
- Storage: To maintain freshness, store in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigerate to extend shelf life to one week.
- Customization: Experiment with adding white chocolate chips or drizzling melted white chocolate over the cookies for added flair.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 15minutes