Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

These Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a delicate strawberry flavor and a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, holidays, or as an everyday indulgence, these cookies combine the classic flavors of chocolate and strawberries in an irresistible way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery and tender – Classic shortbread texture with a fruity twist.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and no chilling required.
• Perfect for gifting – A beautiful homemade treat for loved ones.
• Rich chocolate coating – Adds a decadent contrast to the delicate cookie.
• Customizable – Try different chocolates, sprinkles, or drizzles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Strawberry Shortbread Cookies:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Freeze-dried strawberries, finely ground
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Chocolate Dip:

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
• Coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for smooth dipping)
• Sprinkles or crushed freeze-dried strawberries (optional)

Directions

Make the Shortbread Cookies:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Flavor: Mix in vanilla extract and ground freeze-dried strawberries.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Shape the Cookies: Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut out shapes with a cookie cutter.
6. Bake: Arrange cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Dip in Chocolate:

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
2. Dip the Cookies: Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
3. Decorate: Place on parchment paper and add sprinkles or crushed strawberries before the chocolate sets.
4. Set: Let the chocolate harden at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20–24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• White Chocolate Version: Dip in melted white chocolate for a different twist.
• Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the dough.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
• Strawberry Drizzle: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the dipped cookies for a fancy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Not needed—enjoy straight from storage!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

No, fresh strawberries add too much moisture. Freeze-dried strawberries provide concentrated flavor without altering texture.

2. Why is my shortbread dough crumbly?

Shortbread dough is naturally crumbly, but if too dry, add a teaspoon of milk to bring it together.

3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! Any chocolate works, but dark chocolate balances the sweetness best.

4. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough.

5. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! Bake them in advance and dip in chocolate just before serving.

6. What’s the best way to get even cookie shapes?

Use a sharp cookie cutter and chill the cut-out dough for 10 minutes before baking.

7. Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?

Yes! Almond extract adds a lovely depth of flavor.

8. How do I keep my chocolate from seizing?

Avoid overheating and keep water away from the chocolate when melting.

9. Can I make these cookies without a rolling pin?

Yes! Roll the dough into a log, chill, and slice into rounds before baking.

10. What’s the best way to package these for gifts?

Layer them in a decorative tin with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of buttery, fruity, and chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re making them for Valentine’s Day, gifting to a loved one, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy a delicious homemade treat!

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