Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe
I’m so excited to share this Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe with you because these cookies are absolutely divine! Imagine a soft, chocolatey cookie with a luscious strawberry filling inside and a silky chocolate ganache topping that just melts in your mouth. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, these cookies are going to win hearts. Keep reading—I’ll walk you through everything so your batch turns out perfect!
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Flavor Combination: The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with tangy strawberry filling for a balanced taste.
- Soft, Tender Texture: Using cake flour gives the cookies an irresistibly delicate crumb that isn’t dry or cakey.
- Custard-Soft Filling: The freeze-dried strawberry powder in the buttercream filling adds pure, intense strawberry flavor without extra moisture.
- Finish with a Ganache: The smooth chocolate topping adds a glossy, professional look and extra richness to each bite.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe plays a special role to bring out the best flavors and textures. From the butter to the freeze-dried strawberry powder, everything works together to create that melt-in-your-mouth experience I love.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened for better creaming with sugars, it cushions the cookie for softness and binds ingredients.
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Helps with spreading and crisp edges, balancing sweetness.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness; room temperature eggs mix more smoothly.
- Neutral Cooking Oil: Adds extra tenderness without changing flavor—avocado or canola works great.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and rounds out flavors.
- Cake Flour: Creates a gentle crumb that’s soft but sturdy—if unavailable, use AP flour with cornstarch.
- Dutch Cocoa Powder: For a mellow, rich chocolate taste that’s less acidic.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Balance leavening to achieve a perfectly risen cookie without spreading too thin.
- Table Salt: A little salt amps up all the flavors, especially chocolate and strawberry.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder: Intense strawberry flavor concentrated without added moisture—key for the filling.
- Powdered Sugar: For a smooth filling texture that melts onto your tongue.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate & Heavy Cream: Combined to make a luscious ganache topping that firms up beautifully.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love making this Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe my own by trying out small tweaks based on my mood or what’s in the pantry. You should definitely feel free to do the same!
- Variation: Sometimes I swap the vanilla for a splash of almond extract to layer in a nutty nuance that compliments the strawberry perfectly.
- Dietary Mod: If you want a dairy-free version, coconut oil works well instead of butter, and you can use dairy-free chocolate for the topping.
- Seasonal Twist: When fresh strawberries are in season, try folding chopped berries into the filling for an extra fresh burst.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating the softened butter with both the light brown and granulated sugars in a large bowl. I always use my stand mixer for this and crank it up to high speed for at least one minute—that creates a fluffy base for the cookies. This step is essential for a tender texture, so don’t skip the time here. You’ll see the mixture lighten and get airy, and that’s exactly what you want.
Step 2: Mixing in Eggs, Oil, and Vanilla
Next, add in the eggs (make sure they’re room temperature), the neutral oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed just enough to combine everything evenly. This mixture will look a bit shiny and smooth now, which is perfect. I like using avocado oil for its mild flavor, but canola or vegetable oil works just as well.
Step 3: Sifting Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your cake flour, Dutch cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures everything is evenly distributed and you won’t get any clumps of cocoa or baking soda. I usually sift the cocoa powder too because I find it can clump easily.
Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed—you don’t want to overwork the dough at this stage or it might toughen the cookies. Once mixed, scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl with a spatula to make sure everything is fully incorporated. Then cover the dough with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. I chill mine for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the dough firm up for easier handling.
Step 5: Preparing the Strawberry Filling
While the dough chills, whip up the strawberry filling. Beat softened butter on high speed until it’s creamy and silky, then add the freeze-dried strawberry powder and salt. Mix those in on low so the powder blends evenly without puffing up. Gradually add powdered sugar and keep mixing on low until smooth. This filling is so flavorful and not too sweet—exactly what you want to offset the chocolate cookie. Spoon one tablespoon-sized scoops onto wax paper-lined tray, then freeze them for at least 15 minutes to make them firm and easier to stuff inside the cookies.
Step 6: Assembling the Cookies
Once the dough and filling are chilled and frozen, scoop cookie dough into 3-Tablespoon-sized balls. Using your thumb, gently create a crater in the center, then pop in one frozen filling dollop. Carefully fold the dough over, sealing the filling inside and smoothing out the outside into a nice ball. This part can be a bit tricky the first time, but taking your time and keeping your hands cool helps. Place the filled cookie balls at least 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets to give them room to spread.
Step 7: Baking and Cooling
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 11-12 minutes. The centers may seem a little soft or underbaked—that’s perfect. They’ll firm up as they cool, so resist the urge to overbake. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents breakage and keeps the gooey filling intact.
Step 8: Making and Applying the Chocolate Topping
For the topping, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream together in short bursts in the microwave, stirring after each to avoid overheating. Whisk until silky smooth ganache forms. Let it cool a few minutes to thicken slightly—if it’s too runny, it’ll drip off your cookies. Spread or drizzle about two teaspoons over each cookie and let the ganache set before enjoying. This finishing touch adds a glossy shine and extra chocolate decadence.
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe
- Keep Everything Cool: If your kitchen is warm, your dough might get sticky, so chill often between steps for easier handling.
- Use Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Only freeze-dried powder works here for intense flavor without soggy filling—don’t substitute fresh or dehydrated strawberries.
- Don’t Overbake: The slight softness in the center after baking ensures a tender bite, so check cookies early and avoid dryness.
- Dip or Spread Ganache Carefully: Let it cool just enough to thicken but still spread easily for pretty, smooth topping without runs.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep garnishes simple for these cookies because the flavors shine on their own—sometimes a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few small freeze-dried strawberry pieces sprinkled on top of the ganache before it sets add a pretty pop. A fresh strawberry slice on the side is a nice touch if you’re serving them up as a dessert.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. In fact, I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for brunch or an after-dinner dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try arranging the cookies in a pretty box with some fresh edible flowers or wrapping them individually in cellophane tied with a red or pink ribbon to highlight that strawberry-chocolate vibe. I’ve also placed them on a dessert platter with alternating cookies and fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation that guests always compliment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover chocolate strawberry cookies in an airtight container at room temperature if I plan to eat them within two days. Beyond that, I refrigerate them to keep the filling fresh and prevent spoilage.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead, these cookies freeze wonderfully. I freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers separated by parchment paper. This way they keep for up to a month without sticking together.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cookies, just let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer them warm, pop one or two in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—be careful not to melt the ganache too much. This method keeps the inside soft and the outside tender without drying out your batch.
FAQs
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Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes! If you don’t have cake flour, you can make a substitute by measuring 3 cups of all-purpose flour and removing 2 tablespoons, then replacing those with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for that tender texture cake flour provides. This tweak works great for this recipe.
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Why do I need freeze-dried strawberry powder for the filling?
Freeze-dried strawberry powder offers concentrated flavor without adding moisture that could ruin the filling’s consistency. Using fresh or dehydrated strawberries can make the filling too wet, causing soggy cookies or filling leaks.
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How should I store these cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container. They last up to 2 days at room temperature, but for longer storage, refrigeration is best due to the dairy in the filling and topping.
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Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chocolate ganache a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just warm it slightly before spreading it over the cookies for a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe is one of my all-time favorites to make and share. The combination of chocolate and strawberry feels both classic and special all at once. If you follow the steps and tips I shared here, I’m confident your cookies will come out soft, flavorful, and totally swoon-worthy. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade cookies that wow. Trust me, your friends (and maybe even you) will be asking for the recipe again and again!
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
- Yield: 19 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Decadent chocolate covered strawberry cookies featuring a rich cocoa cookie base, a creamy freeze-dried strawberry butter filling, and a smooth semi-sweet chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly balanced with a tender, cakey texture and a luscious strawberry center, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar firmly packed
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature preferred
- 2 Tablespoons neutral cooking oil (avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups (394 g) cake flour
- ⅔ cup (70 g) Dutch cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon table salt
For the Filling
- 8 Tablespoons (113 g) unsalted butter
- 4 Tablespoons (24 g) freeze-dried strawberry powder
- ⅛ teaspoon table salt
- 1 ⅓ cups (165 g) powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet or couverture chocolate
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately one minute.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the eggs, cooking oil, and vanilla extract on low speed until well combined, then set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, Dutch cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute all dry components.
- Combine Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing until just combined. Scrape the bowl sides and bottom with a spatula to ensure complete incorporation.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make Strawberry Filling: Beat the butter in a medium bowl on high speed until creamy. Add freeze-dried strawberry powder and salt, stirring on low to mix thoroughly. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low until smooth.
- Freeze Filling: Drop 1 tablespoon (14 g) scoops of strawberry filling onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Assemble Cookies: Remove chilled dough and frozen filling. Scoop 3-Tablespoon (58 g) portions of dough and roll into balls. Use your thumb to create a crater in each ball, insert a frozen strawberry filling dollop, then fold dough over to encase it completely. Roll smoothly and place on prepared baking sheets at least 2 inches apart.
- Bake Cookies: Bake cookies in the center of the oven for 12 minutes. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which ensures a soft texture.
- Cool Cookies: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream in 25-second intervals, stirring well after each until smooth and glossy. Let ganache cool until slightly thickened but still spreadable.
- Top Cookies: When cookies are completely cooled, spread about 2 teaspoons of ganache on each cookie evenly using a spatula or spoon back. Allow the ganache to set before serving.
Notes
- Cake Flour: For best texture, use cake flour. Alternatively, substitute with 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Use freeze-dried strawberry powder rather than dehydrated strawberries for optimal flavor and texture. Pulverize whole freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor to create fine powder.
- Storing Cookies: Store in an airtight container. They remain fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days; refrigerate beyond that.
- Chilling Dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading and improves texture.
- Ganache Consistency: Let ganache cool slightly before spreading to avoid drips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg