Pin itA plate of cookies with pink frosting and a bite taken out of one of them. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com
A delightful combination of sweet strawberry cookies sandwiched around creamy filling creates these irresistible Strawberry Sandwich Cookies. Using cake mix as a clever shortcut, these bright pink treats deliver homemade taste with minimal effort. After perfecting this recipe, I've found it creates cookies that are consistently soft and perfectly sweet, with a filling that complements rather than overwhelms.
Last week, I brought these to a baby shower and guests couldn't believe they started with a cake mix - the homemade filling makes all the difference!
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips:
Strawberry Cake Mix: Any brand works, but look for one with real strawberry flavor
Butter: Room temperature ensures smooth mixing
Cream Cheese: Full-fat creates the best filling texture
Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe berries for best puree
Vanilla Extract: Pure extract enhances all flavors
Pin itA stack of four cookies with pink frosting. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com
Detailed Cooking Instructions:
Making Perfect Cookie Dough:
Beat butter until completely smooth
Add egg and vanilla gradually
Mix in cake mix until just combined
Chill dough for proper consistency
Forming the Cookies:
Use consistent scoop size for even baking
Space cookies well on baking sheet
Press dough balls gently
Watch for slight spread while baking
Creating the Filling:
Puree strawberries until completely smooth
Beat cream cheese until light and fluffy
Add powdered sugar gradually
Adjust thickness as needed
Assembly Success:
Cool cookies completely before filling
Pipe or spread filling evenly
Match similar-sized cookies together
Press gently to distribute filling
My grandmother always said that matching cookie sizes was like finding perfect dance partners - they need to complement each other perfectly. Now whenever I'm pairing cookies for sandwiching, I think of her wisdom and take extra care to match similar sizes.
Perfect Cookie Tips:
Getting the right cookie texture starts with properly chilled dough. After many batches, I've found that an hour in the refrigerator gives the dough the perfect consistency for scooping and baking. The cookies will spread just enough while maintaining their shape.
Filling Finesse:
The cream cheese filling needs special attention to achieve that perfect consistency. Start with room temperature cream cheese and beat it until completely smooth before adding any other ingredients. The strawberry puree should be strained to remove seeds for the smoothest texture.
Storage Strategy:
Because of the cream cheese filling, these cookies need to be stored in the refrigerator, where they'll keep beautifully for 3-5 days. Let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.
Pin itA stack of four cookies with pink frosting. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com
Chef's Helpful Tips:
Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizes
Line baking sheets with parchment for easy removal
Rotate pans halfway through baking for even results
These strawberry sandwich cookies have become my go-to recipe for spring celebrations and baby showers. The bright pink color and fresh strawberry flavor never fail to bring smiles. Remember, the key to perfect sandwich cookies is patience - taking your time with each step ensures beautiful results that taste as good as they look.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use other cake mix flavors?
Yes, try different cake mix flavors for variety like vanilla or chocolate.
→ How long do these keep?
Store in refrigerator for 3-5 days in airtight container.
→ Why chill the dough?
Chilling prevents cookies from spreading too much while baking.
→ Can I make less frosting?
Yes, halve the frosting ingredients if you prefer a thinner layer.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Freeze unfrosted cookies, but assembled sandwiches are best fresh.
Easy Strawberry Cookie Sandwiches
Soft strawberry cookies sandwiched with creamy strawberry cream cheese filling - made easy with cake mix.