Name: Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon); 1-2 drops yellow food coloring (optional); 2 tablespoons strawberry puree (from fresh or frozen strawberries); 1-2 drops pink food coloring (optional); ½ cup powdered sugar (for lemon glaze); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for lemon glaze); ½ cup powdered sugar (for strawberry glaze); 1 tablespoon strawberry puree (for strawberry glaze)

Jump to Recipe

Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies are the perfect answer for busy days when you still want to create something special. As a mom with a packed schedule, I know how valuable quick, delicious recipes can be. These cookies come together effortlessly and deliver a delightful burst of zesty lemon and sweet strawberry in every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just need a cheerful afternoon treat, these cookies bring joy to any moment—and best of all, they’ll make you feel like a baking pro!

Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies intro

These Lemon & Strawberry Pound Cookies are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of tangy lemon and luscious strawberry creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around. Who doesn’t love a cookie that’s both easy to make and delicious?

Ingredients for Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, it adds richness and helps create a tender cookie.
Granulated sugar: This sweetener not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the cookie’s texture.
Large eggs: At room temperature, they help bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, giving them structure and body.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Sour cream: It adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cookies soft and delicious.
Fresh lemon juice: This zesty ingredient brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing kick.
Lemon zest: The aromatic outer peel of the lemon intensifies the citrus flavor.
Yellow food coloring (optional): A drop or two can enhance the visual appeal of the lemon dough.
Strawberry puree: Made from fresh or frozen strawberries, it brings sweetness and a beautiful color.
Pink food coloring (optional): Use this to make the strawberry dough pop with color.
Powdered sugar: Essential for making the glazes that add a sweet finish to the cookies.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies how to make

How to Make Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a tender texture in your cookies. The air you incorporate during creaming will help them rise beautifully!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Eggs provide structure and moisture, while vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the lemon and strawberry perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately is important. It ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which helps your cookies rise uniformly.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that’s not too dense. This balance is key to achieving that perfect cookie texture!

Step 6: Divide and Flavor the Dough

Divide the dough in half. To one half, add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a drop of yellow food coloring if you like. For the other half, mix in the strawberry puree and pink food coloring. This step is where the magic happens, as the flavors come alive!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon, drop alternating spoonfuls of the lemon and strawberry dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect; the rustic look adds charm! Just make sure to leave some space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary. A good tip is to check for doneness by gently pressing the edges; they should feel set but still soft in the center.

Step 9: Prepare the Glazes

While the cookies cool, it’s time to make the glazes. For the lemon glaze, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth. For the strawberry glaze, combine powdered sugar with strawberry puree. Drizzle these over the cooled cookies for an extra burst of flavor!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the dough; it can lead to tough cookies.
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Experiment with the glazes; feel free to adjust sweetness to your taste!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl you have.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a stand mixer can save time.
Baking sheet: Any flat baking tray will do; just line it with parchment paper.
Spoon or cookie scoop: A regular spoon works, but a scoop ensures uniform cookies.
Wire rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will work for cooling the cookies.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of eggs for a plant-based version.
Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist on flavor and color.
Herbal Infusion: Add a teaspoon of fresh chopped mint or basil to the lemon dough for a refreshing herbal note.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Present them on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for a beautiful display.

FAQs about Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies

As you embark on your baking adventure with these Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way!

Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just thaw them and blend until smooth. This makes it easy to enjoy these cookies year-round!

How should I store the cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking, so it’s easier to scoop.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute. Both will add moisture and a slight tang to your cookies.

Can I skip the glazes?

Of course! The glazes add a lovely finishing touch, but if you’re short on time, the cookies are still delicious on their own. Enjoy them as is, or dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation!

Final Thoughts

Making Lemon and Strawberry Pound Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating joyful moments in the kitchen. The vibrant flavors of lemon and strawberry come together to create a delightful treat that brightens any day. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these cookies bring smiles and warmth. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip them up even on the busiest days. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and let the sweet aroma fill your home. Happy baking!

More Recipes Hungry to try

Strawberry Crunch Rice Krispie Treats – These no-bake bars are light, crispy, and full of fruity strawberry flavor—a playful contrast to soft pound cookies.
Peach Pie Cruffins – Buttery, flaky, and filled with juicy peach preserves, these cruffins are a charming complement to lemony sweets.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Mac and Cheese – A savory, creamy dish that balances out the sweetness of your dessert spread perfectly.
Southwest Chicken Wraps – Bold, zesty wraps that pair well with a refreshing fruit-based cookie for a complete and satisfying meal.
Strawberries and Cream Protein Pancakes – Fluffy and naturally sweet, these pancakes echo the fruity flavors of your cookies while adding a protein-rich option.