Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are the kind of sweet treat that instantly makes people smile. In the very first bite, you get buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread paired with sweet strawberry jam and a pretty pink strawberry glaze. These cookies are elegant enough for gifting, yet simple enough to make at home without stress. Whether you are baking for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just because, this recipe delivers beauty, flavor, and heartfelt charm in every cookie.
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies Recipe
These cookies are more than just cute. They are practical, reliable, and absolutely delicious.
First, the shortbread dough is easy to handle and made with everyday pantry ingredients. There is no need for complicated techniques or special equipment. Second, the strawberry flavor shines through naturally thanks to real jam and fresh strawberry glaze. Nothing tastes artificial or overly sweet.
You will also love how versatile these cookies are. You can make them ahead, freeze them, or customize them with different shapes and fillings. Best of all, they make a thoughtful homemade gift that feels special and personal.
Ingredients for Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Strawberry Filling
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam, smooth or slightly chunky
Strawberry Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 to 4 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the sugar in the shortbread slightly without affecting the texture. For a dairy-free option, use a high-quality plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk for the glaze.
If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use thawed frozen strawberries for the puree. Just drain excess liquid before blending. Raspberry or mixed berry jam also works well if you want a different flavor while keeping the Valentine theme.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Shortbread Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until pale and creamy. This usually takes about 2 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Gather scraps, reroll, and continue until all dough is used.
Place the cut cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the cut cookies for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and improves the texture.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn light golden. Do not overbake. Shortbread should stay pale and tender.
Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before decorating.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and melted butter. Add milk a little at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Assemble the Cookies
Spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on the flat side of half the cookies. Dip or spoon glaze over the remaining cookies and let it set for about 10 minutes. Sandwich the cookies together gently.
Pro Tips for Success
- Always chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading.
- Use a smooth jam for clean layers, or a chunky jam for more texture.
- Let cookies cool fully before glazing to avoid melting the glaze.
- If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time.
- Store assembled cookies in a single layer until fully set to keep them looking neat.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the shortbread dough and fill with strawberry jam.
- Lemon Strawberry: Add lemon zest to the dough and a splash of lemon juice to the glaze.
- Almond Strawberry: Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty aroma.
- Raspberry Swap: Use raspberry jam and puree for a slightly tart twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with hot tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. They look beautiful arranged on a platter for Valentine’s Day dessert tables or packaged in clear bags with ribbons for gifting. They also make a sweet addition to brunch spreads or afternoon tea.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Unfilled shortbread cookies freeze very well. Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and assemble when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
FAQ About Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the shortbread cookies up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container and assemble with jam and glaze on the day you plan to serve them for the best appearance.
Why did my shortbread turn out crumbly?
Shortbread can become crumbly if too much flour is added or if the dough is overmixed. Make sure to measure flour accurately and mix only until the dough comes together.
Can I use store-bought strawberry glaze?
You can, but homemade strawberry glaze offers a fresher flavor and better color. It is also easy to control the sweetness and thickness.
How do I keep the hearts from losing their shape?
Chilling the cut dough before baking is key. Also, avoid overworking the dough and make sure your oven temperature is accurate.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Absolutely. They contain no alcohol, no nuts, and use simple flavors that kids love. They are also fun for kids to help decorate.
Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rolling Pin
- heart-shaped cookie cutter
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3–4 tbsp fresh strawberry puree
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1–2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface and cut out heart shapes. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the cut cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Bake at 325°F for 12 to 15 minutes, until edges are just lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Whisk powdered sugar, strawberry puree, melted butter, and milk until smooth to make the glaze.
- Spread jam on half the cookies, glaze the others, let set briefly, then sandwich together gently.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Perfect Valentine’s Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a wonderful way to show love through baking. They are simple, beautiful, and full of comforting flavors that never go out of style. Whether you make them for someone special or treat yourself, these cookies are sure to become a favorite you return to year after year.
