Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe

Oh, I absolutely love sharing this Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe with you! It’s one of those delightful treats that feels fancy but comes together so quickly, perfect for when you want a sweet that’s a little different from your usual fare. The strawberry flavor is bright and fresh, thanks to the freeze-dried strawberries, and the crunchy topping adds the kind of texture that makes you smile with every bite.

When I first tried this recipe, it became an instant favorite in my house. You’ll find that these cookies aren’t just pretty to look at—they’re super satisfying munchies for afternoon tea, neighborhood gatherings, or whenever the craving for strawberry treats hits hard. Plus, it’s comforting to know this recipe is straightforward, so you don’t have to be a baking pro to nail it.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe plays an important role to create that luscious texture and vibrant strawberry flavor. I like to use high-quality fresh ingredients, especially for the cream cheese frosting to get that silky smooth finish.

• Freeze dried strawberries: Pulsed into a coarse powder, they bring intense strawberry flavor without moisture.
• Golden Oreos: Crumbled to add buttery texture and sweetness in the crunch topping.
• Butter: Used softened for both the topping and dough to bind ingredients and add richness.
• Strawberry cake mix: The base for the cookies, it provides strawberry flavor and structure without fuss.
• All purpose flour: Helps keep the cookies tender but sturdy enough to hold shape.
• Cornstarch: Adds softness to the cookie texture by lightening the flour.
• Butter flavored shortening: For extra moisture and a tender crumb in the cookie dough.
• Eggs: Act as a binder and provide richness for the dough.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and complements the strawberry beautifully.
• Cream cheese: For the frosting—softened to create a rich, tangy spread.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• Milk: Used sparingly to achieve creamy frosting consistency.

Variations

I love how versatile this Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe is—you can really make it your own by switching up certain ingredients or toppings. I’ve experimented with a few tweaks over time, and I’m excited to share some ideas that might inspire you.

• Gluten-Free Version: I swapped the cake mix and flour for gluten-free alternatives last summer and was amazed that the cookies stayed soft and just as tasty.
• Chocolate Addition: Sometimes I fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra treat, and my family absolutely goes crazy for it.
• Mixed Berry Topping: For a twist, I’ve combined freeze-dried raspberries with the strawberries in the crunch topping—it’s colorful and adds a little tang.

How to Make Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping

Start by pulsing the Golden Oreos in your food processor until you get fine crumbs—this step makes the topping ultra crunchy and buttery. Pour about a cup of those crumbs into a bowl. Next, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they break down into a coarse powder; don’t worry if you see some small chunks here and there—that adds texture. Add 1¼ cups of that strawberry powder into your Oreo crumbs, then mix in the softened butter using your hands or a spoon until everything clumps together evenly. Set this gorgeous topping aside while you move on to the cookies. Trust me, prepping this first makes the whole process feel smooth and organized.

Step 2: Mix the Strawberry Cookie Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F while you focus on the dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the strawberry cake mix, flour, and cornstarch. This dry mix sets the stage for those soft, chewy cookies you’ll love. Add the softened butter, shortening, eggs, and vanilla extract. I use my hand mixer here so everything gets blended well and the dough turns thick but workable—it’s like the perfect cookie dough consistency that holds its shape but doesn’t feel heavy. This is where a little patience pays off because the better your mix, the tastier the cookie.

Step 3: Shape and Bake Your Cookies

Using a ¼ cup scoop (or spoon), portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat. I like to do 6 cookies per tray since they bake evenly that way. Shape each mound into a round disc—this helps them bake into thick, soft cookies instead of spreading too much. Bake for 11-13 minutes until the edges are set and tops look just cooked through. Pull them from the oven and let them cool completely right there on the sheet; this prevents them from falling apart when you frost. You’ll repeat the process for the second batch, and I promise each cookie is worth the little wait.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting and Assemble

While the cookies cool, whip up your cream cheese frosting by combining the softened cream cheese and butter with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. I start slow with the milk—usually just a tablespoon—and add more only if necessary to get that smooth, spreadable texture. Either spread the frosting generously over each cookie or fill a piping bag to create a fancy swirl—it elevates the look, especially if you’re serving guests. Then, sprinkle or gently press the prepared strawberry crunch topping on top so every bite has that delightful crunch. The contrast of creamy frosting and crunchy topping makes these cookies unforgettable.

How to Serve Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to garnish these cookies with a few extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces sprinkled on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Sometimes a tiny fresh mint leaf or an edible flower really makes them look festive if you’re serving to guests. It adds that little “wow” factor without complicating the recipe.

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect alongside a cup of hot tea or fresh brewed coffee, and I also love pairing them with a light fruit salad to balance the richness. For a party, consider serving them with a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or strawberry milkshake—so nostalgic and fun.

Creative Ways to Present

I once arranged these cookies on a pretty tiered dessert stand at a baby shower, which instantly made them the centerpiece. Adding a few whole freeze-dried strawberries scattered around the base completes the look beautifully. These cookies also travel well if you stack them in decorated boxes or mason jars for thoughtful, homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying a batch, I store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh and the strawberry crunch topping crisp. They hold up beautifully for up to 4 days, which is great for stretching out the pleasure a little longer.

Freezing

If I’m making these for a party later, I freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze perfectly for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to serve, I thaw them overnight in the fridge and add the frosting and topping fresh—this way they stay as good as homemade on the day of.

Reheating

To revive a thawed cookie before frosting, I pop it in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to warm slightly—it’s amazing how just a little heat brings back that fresh-baked feeling. Just be sure to let them cool before frosting, or the topping might melt away.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Strawberry Crunch Cookies Recipe enough—making these cookies feels like giving yourself a little gift. They’re easy to whip up, bursting with flavor, and just the right amount of crunchy and creamy. Next time you want to impress friends or simply treat yourself, give this recipe a go—you’ll be so glad you did, and your kitchen will smell incredible too!

Print