Strawberry Crunch Cookies

πŸ“ Strawberry Crunch Cookies πŸͺ β€” Sweet, Crunchy, and Totally Irresistible! 🌟
These Strawberry Crunch Cookies bring together the best of both worlds: a buttery shortbread base, topped with a delicious strawberry crunch coating that’s sweet, fruity, and just a bit crunchy. They’re the perfect treat for when you need something light, refreshing, and indulgent all at once!

πŸ›’ Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for an extra hint of flavor)

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
1 box (3.4 oz) strawberry instant pudding mix

1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (about 6-8 crackers)

1/2 cup rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup melted butter

🍴 Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Shortbread Base:
Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.

In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

Add in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Mix until combined.

Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Press each cookie down gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten them slightly.

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

2️⃣ Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry pudding mix, crushed graham crackers, rice cereal, and sugar. Mix until evenly distributed.

Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir until everything is well-coated and forms a crunchy texture.

3️⃣ Assemble the Cookies:
Once the shortbread cookies are completely cooled, dip the top of each cookie into the strawberry crunch topping. Press down gently to ensure the crunch mixture sticks.

Return to the cooling rack to allow the topping to set and firm up.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
Once the cookies have set, you’re ready to serve! These Strawberry Crunch Cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, as a sweet snack, or for your next get-together. πŸ“πŸͺ

✨ Tips & Variations:
Substitute for Strawberry: If you prefer a different fruit, try using raspberry or peach pudding mix for a fun twist!

Extra Crunch: Add in a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture.

Make them Mini: Instead of tablespoon-sized cookies, make mini cookie dough balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or lunchboxes.

Frosting Option: For an extra indulgent treat, pipe a bit of cream cheese frosting on top before adding the strawberry crunch mixture.

πŸ“ Enjoy the Burst of Flavor!
These cookies have a perfect balance of soft, buttery shortbread and a crispy, fruity crunch topping. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to delight with every bite!

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