Elegant Strawberry Sugar Cups

These elegant strawberry sugar cookie cups are a delightful treat perfect for any special occasion or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. With a buttery cookie base filled with luscious strawberry jam and topped with creamy pink buttercream, these cups combine familiar flavors into a charming presentation that is sure to impress.

I first baked these for a close friend’s birthday and was amazed how quickly they disappeared. Now they are requested for every holiday party.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One and a half cups all-purpose flour: choose a fine, bleached variety for the best texture
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• Half cup unsalted butter softened: quality butter adds richness avoid margarine
• Three quarters cup granulated sugar: use fine sugar for a smooth dough
• One large egg: binds ingredients and contributes moisture
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: pure vanilla elevates the cookie’s aroma
• Half teaspoon baking powder: helps give a slight rise and a light crumb
• Half cup strawberry jam: opt for a high-quality or homemade jam for bright flavor
• One cup pink buttercream frosting: the star topping homemade or store-bought works well
• Optional heart and round sprinkles: add whimsy and color for decoration

How to Make It

Sift the Dry Ingredients:

Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and a light texture in the cookies. Set this mixture aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

Using a stand mixer or hand beaters, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three to five minutes. This aerates the dough for tender cookies.

Add the Egg and Vanilla:

Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and slightly glossy.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Prepare the Cookie Cups:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a standard muffin tin or line with paper liners. Scoop equal portions of dough into each cup and gently press to form a hollowed "cup" shape.

Bake the Cookie Cups:

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden but centers remain soft. The cups will firm up as they cool.

Cool Thoroughly:

Remove from the oven and let the cookie cups cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling prevents frosting from melting.

Fill and Decorate:

Once fully cooled, fill each cookie cup with about a teaspoon of strawberry jam, then pipe or spread a dollop of pink buttercream frosting on top. Finish with sprinkles for that fun elegant touch.

I love the way the pink buttercream frosting brightens the dessert and adds a festive look. One time, I made these for a kids’ party, and the sprinkles were a huge hit; they called them "princess cookies" and couldn’t stop smiling.

Flavor Boosters

Store these cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep the cookies soft and frosting fresh. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm before placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookie cups alongside a cup of tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert. They also make adorable edible gifts when packaged in small boxes or cellophane bags.

Creative Twists

Use dairy-free butter and gluten-free flour blends to accommodate allergies without sacrificing flavor or texture. Swap strawberry jam for raspberry or apricot jam if you want a twist in flavor. Vanilla bean paste is a lovely alternative for a deeper vanilla flavor.

These strawberry sugar cookie cups blend nostalgic flavor with elegant presentation to delight any crowd. Enjoy crafting this charming treat for holidays or everyday celebrations.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use gluten-free flour in this dish?

Yes, gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising texture.

→ What is the purpose of the baking powder?

Baking powder helps provide a light, tender crumb by creating air bubbles during baking.

→ How can I make a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free butter and ensure the frosting does not contain dairy to make this suitable for dairy-free needs.

→ What is the best way to store these cups?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I decorate these cups differently?

Yes, you can use various sprinkles or fresh fruit to customize the appearance and enhance flavor.