Strawberry Cookies

Strawberry cookies are a delightful treat that highlight the sweet and fruity flavors of strawberries.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into powder (you can use a food processor or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin)
• Additional freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (for decoration, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough may be slightly crumbly, but it should come together when pressed.
6. Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the dough to firm up.
7. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and shape it into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
8. Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm. If desired, sprinkle some additional crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top of each cookie for decoration.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once the strawberry cookies have cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed. They have a delicate strawberry flavor and a slightly crumbly texture. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to several days. Enjoy these delicious strawberry cookies with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack throughout the day.