Introduction
Strawberry Champagne Cookies are a charming way to add a festive touch to your baking. Combining the sweetness of strawberries with the elegant fizz of champagne, these cookies are perfect for any celebration or special occasion.
The bright flavor of strawberries shines through, complemented perfectly by the light, airy texture. These cookies not only look delightful but also taste like a luxurious treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies; it also helps to create a tender texture. Softened butter incorporates air when creamed with sugar, contributing to the cookie's lightness. - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Powdered sugar creates a smooth texture in cookie dough and enhances sweetness. It also helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality characteristic of beautifully baked cookies. - 1 large egg
Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the ingredients together. They add moisture and richness, which contributes to the overall texture and flavor of the cookies. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor that enhances the overall sweetness of the cookies. It's a classic ingredient in baking that complements both fruit flavors and the richness of butter. - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Flour provides structure to the cookies. The right amount will ensure that they are sturdy yet soft, allowing them to hold their shape while baking. - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Salt enhances the flavor of the cookies and balances the sweetness. It also helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. - 1/2 cup strawberry extract
Strawberry extract intensifies the fruit flavor in the cookies without adding extra moisture. This concentrated flavor is key to making the cookies distinctively berry-infused. - 1/2 cup champagne extract or reduced champagne
Champagne extract infuses the cookies with a delicate bubble and fruity note. It adds a sophisticated touch, making the cookies perfect for celebrations. - Few drops of pink food coloring (optional)
Pink food coloring enhances the visual appeal of the cookies, making them even more enticing. It evokes the color of fresh strawberries and adds to the festive spirit. - Sprinkles for decoration
Sprinkles provide a fun, celebratory crunch and can be customized to fit any occasion. They add a pop of color and texture to the finished cookies.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Start by preparing the champagne extract
If you are not using store-bought champagne extract, you can make your own by reducing real champagne. Pour one cup of sparkling wine into a saucepan, heat it until it boils, and then allow it to reduce by half. This step is vital as it concentrates the flavors, ensuring your cookies have that distinct, celebratory flavor.
Step 2: Cream the butter and powdered sugar together
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for achieving a light, tender cookie. The mixture should turn pale and increase in volume, which adds to the overall lightness of the final product.
Step 3: Add the egg and extracts
To the creamed mixture, add the egg, strawberry extract, and champagne extract (or the reduced champagne). Mix until fully incorporated. This not only adds moisture but also enhances flavor. Ensure everything is smoothly combined, as uneven mixing can lead to inconsistencies in texture.
Step 4: Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This combination will provide the necessary structure and lift to your cookies. Whisking also helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt, preventing clumps in your dough.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies. Aim for a dough that is cohesive yet slightly sticky—this ensures a soft and tender cookie.
Step 6: Color the dough
If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring to the dough and mix until the color is evenly distributed. This step is optional, but it can make the cookies stand out and become even more visually appealing.
Step 7: Chill the dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to scoop and shape. This step also enhances the flavors by allowing them to meld together, resulting in a more delicious cookie.
Step 8: Preheat the oven
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise correctly. You want the oven to be fully heated to achieve the right texture and browning.
Step 9: Prepare your baking sheet
Line your cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and helps in easy cleanup. A prepared sheet also helps ensure your cookies bake evenly and maintain their shape.
Step 10: Scoop the dough
Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out the dough into uniform balls. Uniformity ensures that all cookies bake at the same rate, resulting in a cookies that are all perfectly baked.
Step 11: Roll in sprinkles and bake
Roll each dough ball in sprinkles before placing them on the prepared cookie sheet. This adds a festive touch and additional flavor and texture. Bake for about 9-10 minutes, until the edges are just golden, allowing the cookies to remain soft in the center.
Step 12: Cool completely before serving
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows the cookies to firm up, making them easier to handle and ensuring the perfect texture when enjoyed.
Perfecting the Strawberry Flavor
To achieve a vibrant strawberry flavor in your cookies, utilizing both strawberry extract and real strawberries can be advantageous. While extract provides concentrated essence, incorporating finely chopped strawberries adds texture and bursts of fresh fruit flavor. When mixing, aim for even distribution to ensure every bite delights with strawberry goodness.
The Magic of Champagne
Using champagne in your cookie recipe not only adds flavor but also a subtle elegance. Reducing champagne intensifies its sweetness, allowing it to infuse the cookies with a nuanced flavor profile. This step is what elevates your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary, allowing them to stand out at any gathering.
A Festive Touch with Sprinkles
Sprinkles bring a sense of joy and celebration to any dessert. For these cookies, choose sprinkles that complement the strawberry theme—pink or white work beautifully. They not only enhance visual appeal but also add a fun texture contrast that makes these cookies even more irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of extract?
Yes, you can use finely chopped fresh strawberries. However, be aware they may add more moisture, and you might need to adjust other wet ingredients to maintain the cookie's texture.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don't worry if they seem a bit underbaked.
What if my dough is too thick?
If your dough feels too thick and hard to scoop, you can incorporate a splash of milk or an extra egg to loosen it slightly. Be cautious not to add too much, as you want to maintain the right cookie texture.
How do I adjust the sweetness if the batter is bland?
If the flavor isn't robust enough, consider adding a bit more strawberry or champagne extract. Taste a small portion of the dough (remembering raw egg safety) and adjust as necessary.
Are there alternatives for champagne extract?
If champagne extract isn’t available, consider using non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice or a splash of lemon soda for a similar flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.
What texture should I expect from the finished cookies?
The cookies should be soft and tender, with a slight chewiness, especially in the center. An underbaked texture is preferred for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Conclusion
Strawberry Champagne Cookies are not just a delicious treat but a delightful experience that brings a pop of joy to any occasion. Their vibrant flavor combination is sure to make them a favorite at gatherings and events.
Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies will add that extra touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.