Elegant Strawberry Bar Cookie Cups
Introduction
These Elegant Strawberry Bar Cookie Cups are the perfect blend of buttery cookie dough and sweet strawberry jam, baked into charming little cups that look as good as they taste. With a golden crust, gooey fruit center, and a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re ideal for tea parties, holiday trays, or simply a cozy afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Elegant presentation: Individual cups look fancy yet are easy to make.
Sweet & buttery: Classic cookie dough pairs beautifully with fruity jam.
Versatile: Swap strawberry jam for raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd.
Crowd‑pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or dessert buffets.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 ½ cups strawberry jam
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper cups.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble Cups
Spoon 1 tbsp of dough into each muffin cup, pressing down slightly. Add 1 tsp strawberry jam in the center, then top with another tbsp of dough.
Step 6: Bake
Bake 15–18 minutes, until golden brown. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Step 7: Finish
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Use seedless jam for a smoother filling.
Chill dough for 15 minutes if it feels sticky.
For extra elegance, drizzle with white chocolate after baking.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Variations
Berry Medley: Use mixed berry jam for a colorful twist.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the dough.
Citrus Burst: Swap jam for lemon curd and dust with zest.
Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
Serving Ideas
Serve on a tiered tray for afternoon tea.
Pair with coffee or champagne for a chic dessert.
Package in decorative boxes for edible gifts.
Add to a holiday cookie platter for variety.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake and store in an airtight container. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Absolutely—freeze baked cups up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Q: Can I use other jams?
Yes, raspberry, apricot, or blueberry jam all work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These Elegant Strawberry Bar Cookie Cups are a charming twist on classic cookies—easy to make, beautiful to serve, and deliciously indulgent. Whether for a party or a quiet treat at home, they’ll always impress.