Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

These Strawberry Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of spring and summer in every bite. With their sweet strawberry flavor and creamy filling, these cookies are not only easy to make but also perfect for any occasion—be it a picnic, birthday party, or just a cozy afternoon at home. The use of cake mix streamlines the process, making this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made with cake mix, these cookies come together in no time, perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry cake and creamy filling offers a delightful burst of flavor.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, these cookies can be served as dessert at parties or enjoyed as a midday snack.
• Fun to Make: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, making this a fun family activity.
• Beautiful Presentation: These cookies look as good as they taste, adding a pop of color to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Strawberry Sandwich Cookies efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you create perfect cookies without hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Piping bag or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple sizes helps with organization.
• Parchment paper or silicone mat: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking for perfect cookie shells.

Ingredients

These delightful strawberry sandwich cookies are made with cake mix, making them a quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer!

For the Cookie Shells:

• 15.25-oz box strawberry cake mix
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 3 tablespoons pureed strawberries
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter until smooth.
2. Add in egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add in the strawberry cake mix, beating until well combined.
4. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form chilled dough into balls about 2 inches wide.
4. Place balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 10 minutes until slightly golden around the edges.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together pureed strawberries and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, adjusting until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Use a piping bag or knife to spread the filling on the bottom of half of the cooled cookie shells.
2. Place another cookie on top of each filled cookie to create sandwiches.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Sandwich Cookies as they bring joy to any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

Strawberry sandwich cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a sweet snack, these cookies can fit any occasion perfectly.

For Afternoon Tea

• Serve alongside a pot of freshly brewed tea for a light and elegant afternoon treat.

As Party Favors

• Package them in cute boxes or bags to give as party favors at birthdays or spring celebrations.

With Ice Cream

• Top with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to please.

At Picnics

• Bring them along in your picnic basket for a sweet touch to your outdoor meals.

On Dessert Platters

• Include them on dessert platters next to other cookies and sweets for variety at events.

How to Perfect Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

To ensure your strawberry sandwich cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least one hour helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to mix easily and create a smooth filling.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements, especially for powdered sugar, to avoid overly sweet filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be slightly soft when you remove them from the oven.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different fruit purees or flavor extracts to the cream cheese filling for variety.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

Pairing side dishes with strawberry sandwich cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.

4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   Enhance the strawberry theme with these classic treats that add richness.

5. Mini Cupcakes
   Offer small cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or lemon for variety.

6. Lemonade
   A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a zesty counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making strawberry sandwich cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter. Always bring butter and cream cheese to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the refrigeration step may result in cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough for at least an hour to maintain their shape.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they’re slightly golden around the edges.
• Incorrect Mixing Order: Adding ingredients in the wrong order can affect texture. Always beat butter first, followed by eggs and sugar, before adding dry ingredients.
• Skipping the Piping Bag: Using a knife instead of a piping bag for the filling can lead to uneven distribution. A piping bag helps create a neat and uniform filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store strawberry sandwich cookies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

• To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm.
• Transfer cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag, storing them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about strawberry sandwich cookies.

How do I make Strawberry Sandwich Cookies without eggs?

You can replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

Can I use other fruits in these sandwich cookies?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for different flavors while keeping the same base recipe.

What is the best way to decorate Strawberry Sandwich Cookies?

Consider drizzling melted chocolate or sprinkling powdered sugar on top for added decoration and flavor.

How can I customize my Strawberry Sandwich Cookies?

You can add lemon zest or vanilla extract into the cookie dough, or mix in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These strawberry sandwich cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for spring and summer gatherings or just as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings!