Strawberry Crunch Cookies
Strawberry Crunch Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies that everyone will love. They combine the sweet taste of strawberry cake mix with a creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy topping. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies are flavorful and colorful.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Strawberry Crunch Cookies is a fun and easy way to enjoy a taste of summer all year round. They not only look impressive but also taste delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these cookies up quickly. They are great for sharing with friends or savoring with a glass of milk. Plus, the combination of strawberries, cream cheese, and a crunchy topping will satisfy your sweet cravings!
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies (like Golden Oreos)
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag (or use a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off).
- In a bowl, mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed cookies, and melted butter until combined.
- Pipe a dollop of cheesecake filling onto the center of each cooled cookie. Sprinkle the crunch topping over the cheesecake filling to cover it completely.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness. Allow the white chocolate to set before serving.
- Arrange the cookies on a platter or package them individually for gifting. Enjoy these sweet, tangy, and crunchy cookies with a glass of milk or as a delightful treat!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cookies
You can serve Strawberry Crunch Cookies as a snack or dessert. They are perfect for parties, school events, or just a cozy evening at home. Place them on a nice platter and enjoy with friends and family. These cookies also make great gifts, so consider packaging them in a cute box or bag for someone special.
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Cookies
To keep your Strawberry Crunch Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 3-5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Cookies
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- For extra strawberry flavor, add more crushed freeze-dried strawberries into the dough.
- If you want a thicker topping, add more crushed cookies to the topping mix.
- Check your cookies a minute early to avoid overbaking. They should be soft in the center when you take them out.
Variation
You can customize these cookies by using different cake mixes or toppings. For instance, try using lemon or vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra crunch!
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container and add the topping and white chocolate drizzle just before serving for the best freshness.
2. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Fresh strawberries may not work as well because they add moisture to the cookies. Stick with freeze-dried strawberries for the crunch and flavor without excess moisture.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can look for a gluten-free strawberry cake mix to make these cookies gluten-free. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious Strawberry Crunch Cookies!
