Strawberry lemonade cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a bite of summer, straight from my childhood kitchen. I’m Jake Morrison, a home cook based in Asheville, North Carolina, and I first fell in love with these fruity, chewy treats in my grandmother’s kitchen on the Maine coast. We mixed lemon zest with fresh strawberries and created what she called “summertime sugar cookies.” The scent, the flavor—it all stuck with me.
Now, I’ve brought that memory back to life with these easy-to-make strawberry lemonade cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and a little tangy—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or whenever you need a bright treat. Using simple ingredients like strawberry cake mix and fresh citrus, you’ll have a batch ready in no time.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Grilled Cola Chicken for a savory main to pair with this sweet finish.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Makes Strawberry Lemonade Cookies Special?
Strawberry lemonade cookies are the perfect blend of tart and sweet, bringing the vibrant flavors of summer into a soft, chewy dessert. With the bright citrus of lemon and the fruity punch of strawberries, these cookies taste like sunshine in every bite. They’re fun, colorful, and ideal for cookouts, potlucks, or just brightening up a weekday afternoon.
What sets them apart is how easy they are to make—usually with a box of strawberry cake mix, some fresh lemon zest or juice, and basic pantry staples. In under 30 minutes, you get bakery-style cookies without the fuss. Their pretty pink hue and zesty aroma make them stand out on any dessert table.
Whether you enjoy them plain or drizzled with lemon glaze, strawberry lemonade cookies deliver big flavor with minimal effort. They’re a refreshing twist on traditional cookies—and once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your summer baking lineup.
How These Cookies Became a Viral Favorite
Strawberry lemonade cookies didn’t start as a trend—they started as a clever shortcut in home kitchens. But once the internet caught on, they quickly became a viral sensation. With their bold pink color, soft texture, and crowd-pleasing flavor, they were made for social media. Scroll through Pinterest or TikTok, and you’ll see thousands of bakers showing off their lemony-pink creations with captions like “only six ingredients!” and “ready in 20 minutes!”
What really drove the trend was their simplicity. Using strawberry cake mix as a base meant even beginner bakers could create vibrant, bakery-style cookies without special skills or tools. Add a bit of lemon juice or zest, and suddenly you’ve got something that tastes fresh and homemade—with hardly any effort.
They’re also wildly customizable, which made them popular across blogs and platforms. People began adding lemon glaze, folding in white chocolate chips, or turning them into cookie sandwiches with cream filling. This kind of flexibility made them not just a recipe, but a canvas.
In a world where quick, colorful, and camera-worthy desserts dominate, it’s no surprise that strawberry lemonade cookies became a summer favorite nationwide.
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Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
- Total Time: 37 mins
- Yield: 45 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Lemonade Cookies are my favorite 6-ingredient summer cookie recipe. I’ve combined my favorite lemon cookie dough and strawberry cookie dough into one of the BEST cake mix cookie recipes for summer.
Ingredients
- 1 box Betty Crocker Delight Strawberry Cake Mix or any brand cake mix
- 1 box Betty Crocker Delight Lemon Cake Mix or any brand cake mix
- 4 large eggs, divided
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cold water or lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk 2 eggs, 1/3 cup oil, 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice. Stir in lemon cake mix. Mix until combined; set aside.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk 2 eggs, 1/3 cup oil, 1.5 teaspoons lemon juice. Stir in strawberry cake mix. Mix until combined; set aside.
Refrigerate doughs at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
Generously sprinkle 2 separate large plates with powdered sugar.
Working with the lemon dough first, scoop 1/2 tablespoon dough and place on powdered sugar plate. Repeat until you have enough to fill the cookie sheet about. Roll dough between hands then place back onto plate.
Scoop 1/2 tablespoon strawberry cookie dough onto second powdered sugar plate. Roll dough balls. The powdered sugar on the plate should make working with the dough easier when it’s ready to be rolled. If it’s still too sticky to roll, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on hands.
Roll 1 lemon ball and 1 strawberry ball together. Cup hands and apply a little pressure while rolling until smooth ball forms.
Place on baking sheet 1-inch apart. Sprinkle with a little powdered sugar.
Bake in oven for 10-13 minutes or until slightly golden around the edges. I baked mine for 12.5 minutes.
Refrigerate remaining dough in between uses.
Transfer baked cookies to cooling wire rack. Repeat with remaining dough.
To make the glaze, combine 1.5 cups powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons water or lemon juice. Mix until smooth. Using a spoon, drizzle glaze over cookies.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 155mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Ingredients and Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients: From Cake Mix to Citrus Zest
The beauty of strawberry lemonade cookies is that you don’t need a long list of specialty ingredients. Most items are already in your pantry or can be grabbed quickly from any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Cake Mix | The base for flavor and color |
| Large Eggs | Helps bind and add structure |
| Vegetable Oil or Butter | Adds richness and softness |
| Lemon Zest or Lemon Juice | Brings the lemonade flavor and brightness |
| Optional: White Chocolate Chips | For a creamy, sweet contrast |
| Optional: Powdered Sugar & Lemon Juice | To make a light lemon glaze |
Pro tip: Use fresh lemon zest if possible—it brings a vibrant citrus aroma that bottled juice just can’t match. For strawberries, freeze-dried chunks can add real texture and color, or swap in a spoonful of strawberry jam for extra flavor.
This cookie recipe is incredibly forgiving. You can tweak the lemon strength, mix in extras, or even use a lemon cake mix and fold in dried strawberries for a reverse version.
Recommended Kitchen Tools for Flawless Cookies
No fancy appliances needed here—just a few basic tools to get perfect results every time:
- Mixing Bowl – A large one for combining all your ingredients
- Hand or Stand Mixer – Optional, but helps blend everything smoothly
- Zester or Microplane – For fresh lemon zest
- Cookie Scoop – For even-sized cookies
- Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and helps even baking
- Cooling Rack – Allows cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy
These tools make the baking process smoother and give your cookies that uniform, bakery-style finish.
Check out Hearty All-Meat Chili No Beans for another hearty and easy recipe to serve before dessert!
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making strawberry lemonade cookies is one of the easiest ways to bring fruity, zesty flavors to your dessert table. With a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that looks impressive and tastes even better. These cookies are soft, chewy, and full of bright strawberry and lemon notes—perfect for summer or any time you want a fresh twist on a classic treat.
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or use melted butter for a richer texture)
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest or 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Stir the ingredients until a thick dough forms. You’ll immediately notice the fruity scent that gives strawberry lemonade cookies their signature appeal.
3. Add Your Extras (Optional)
Enhance the cookie dough with:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons chopped freeze-dried strawberries
- A drop of lemon extract for added zing
These additions elevate the flavor and create even more dimension in your strawberry lemonade cookies.
4. Scoop and Bake
Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the baking sheet, spacing cookies 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers look just set.
5. Cool and Glaze
Let your cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking tray before transferring to a wire rack. For extra flavor, drizzle a light lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice. It gives your strawberry lemonade cookies a glossy finish and that perfect sweet-tart bite.
Tips for Mixing and Baking to Perfection
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it’s too sticky—this prevents spreading.
- Don’t overbake—they’ll firm up as they cool, keeping that soft, chewy texture.
- Use fresh lemon zest over bottled juice for a more vibrant citrus flavor.
- Make a double batch. These strawberry lemonade cookies are a guaranteed hit and disappear fast.
Creative Variations on the Classic Recipe
Adding White Chocolate Chips or Cream Cheese
One of the best things about strawberry lemonade cookies is how easy they are to customize. Want to make them richer? Fold in ½ cup of white chocolate chips. The creamy sweetness balances the tang of lemon and strawberry, giving the cookies a luxurious twist.
Looking for something more decadent? Try a cream cheese center. Simply mix softened cream cheese with a bit of powdered sugar and lemon zest, then stuff a teaspoon of the mixture into each cookie before baking. The result is a gooey, cheesecake-like surprise in every bite—perfect for parties or when you want to impress without the effort.
Both additions pair beautifully with the existing flavors and give your cookies that extra touch that feels bakery-made.
Using Fresh Strawberries vs. Freeze-Dried
A common question is whether you should use fresh strawberries or freeze-dried. Both work, but they create very different results.
- Freeze-dried strawberries hold their shape and color well during baking. They also give your cookies a pop of tart, concentrated flavor without adding extra moisture.
- Fresh strawberries, on the other hand, will make the cookies more moist and cakey. While they add great flavor, they can sometimes bleed into the dough and change the texture.
If you’re aiming for crisp edges and chewy centers, go with freeze-dried. If you love a softer cookie and don’t mind a little mess, fresh strawberries are a fine option. Either way, the result is still a batch of amazing strawberry lemonade cookies packed with fruity flavor.
Strawberry Lemonade Cookies FAQs Answered
Is Strawberry Lemonade Just Pink Lemonade?
Not exactly. While both drinks are fruity and refreshing, strawberry lemonade is made specifically with lemon juice and real strawberries—either blended or muddled—giving it a naturally sweet and tangy flavor. Pink lemonade, on the other hand, gets its color from added ingredients like cranberry juice, grenadine, or food dye. When it comes to flavor, strawberry lemonade has a bolder fruit-forward taste, which is exactly why it works so well in strawberry lemonade cookies.
What Is Snoop Dogg’s Cookie Recipe?
Snoop Dogg’s cookie recipe, found in his cookbook From Crook to Cook, includes classic treats like peanut butter chocolate chip cookies and rich oatmeal cookies. While he doesn’t have a strawberry lemonade cookie in his collection—yet!—his recipes are known for being easy, flavorful, and packed with personality. You could definitely Snoop-ify this recipe with a little glaze, some cream filling, or a splash of creativity.
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Freeze-Dried in Cookies?
Yes, but be cautious. Fresh strawberries add extra moisture, which can change the texture of your cookies, making them softer or even cakier. If using fresh berries, dice them small and blot with a paper towel to remove excess juice before folding them into the dough. Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred in strawberry lemonade cookies for their concentrated flavor and better texture retention during baking.
What Is in the Strawberry Lemonade at Starbucks?
Starbucks’ strawberry lemonade is made with a blend of their classic lemonade and strawberry purée or syrup. It’s bright, fruity, and slightly tart—very similar to the flavor profile of strawberry lemonade cookies. That same balance of sweet and tangy is what makes these cookies such a standout dessert. They capture the essence of a summer drink in a portable, snackable form.
Best Occasions to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Perfect for Summer BBQs, Brunches, and Baby Showers
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, attending a baby shower, or planning a weekend brunch, strawberry lemonade cookies fit right in. Their bright color, fruity flavor, and chewy texture make them a standout dessert that feels light, fresh, and festive.
Because they’re easy to transport and don’t require refrigeration, they’re ideal for picnics, potlucks, and outdoor events. Just stack them in a cookie tin or wrap them in parchment paper and you’re good to go. Guests love them because they’re unexpected—a break from the usual chocolate chip or sugar cookie.
Their soft pastel pink color and citrus aroma also make them perfect for spring and summer-themed gatherings. Want a quick idea for a dessert platter? Pair them with lemon bars, berry tarts, or iced tea for a full sunshine-inspired spread.
Making Ahead for Parties or Potlucks
Planning ahead? You can make strawberry lemonade cookies up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. They stay soft and flavorful and often taste even better the next day once the flavors settle.
For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake fresh when needed. This is especially helpful when you’re prepping for big events—just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer and bake an extra minute or two.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a go-to dessert with wide appeal, these cookies check every box: quick, easy, pretty, and packed with flavor.
Discover great ideas like our Grilled Cola Chicken to round out your event menu.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
How to Keep Them Fresh for Longer
Once baked, strawberry lemonade cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep them soft and chewy, place a slice of white bread or a few marshmallows in the container—it helps maintain moisture without affecting the flavor.
If you’re storing cookies with lemon glaze, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. These cookies are best enjoyed within the first few days when the citrus and strawberry flavors are most vibrant.
Best Methods for Freezing and Thawing
Want to prep ahead? Strawberry lemonade cookies freeze beautifully—both before and after baking.
- To freeze the dough: Scoop dough balls onto a tray and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F, adding 1–2 minutes to the usual time.
- To freeze baked cookies: Let them cool completely. Place cookies in a single layer or separate them with wax paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Thawing tips: Let frozen baked cookies sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. You can also warm them in the oven at 300°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
What to Serve With Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Strawberry lemonade cookies are a standalone treat, but pairing them with the right food or drink takes them to a whole new level. Because of their fruity and citrusy profile, they go wonderfully with other light, summery items. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Iced Herbal Teas – Hibiscus or mint tea balances the cookie’s sweetness.
- Lemonade or Sparkling Water – Match the theme with a drink that enhances the citrus flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for a quick ice cream sandwich.
- Fresh Fruit Salads – Serve alongside a bowl of melon, berries, and mint for a refreshing platter.
For gatherings, arrange cookies on a dessert tray with lemon bars, sugar cookies, and a few chocolate treats to balance the tart flavors.
Beverage Pairings: From Lemonade to Sparkling Wine
If you’re serving these cookies at a more elevated event or adults-only occasion, try pairing them with:
- Prosecco or Moscato – Light and bubbly wines bring out the strawberry notes.
- Strawberry or Lemon Cocktails – A strawberry mojito or lemon drop martini works beautifully.
- Rosé Wine – Its fruity undertones mirror the flavors in the cookies.
For kids’ parties, serve the cookies with a pitcher of homemade strawberry lemonade—it’s a fun way to tie everything together and highlight the flavor that inspired the recipe.
Nutrition Breakdown and Health Tips
Caloric Info Per Cookie and Ingredient Breakdown
While strawberry lemonade cookies are meant to be an indulgent treat, it’s helpful to know what you’re biting into—especially if you’re serving guests with dietary concerns. Based on a standard batch using strawberry cake mix, oil, and eggs, here’s a basic estimate per cookie (about 24 cookies total):
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140–160 |
| Total Fat | 6–8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1–2g |
| Carbohydrates | 20–22g |
| Sugar | 12–14g |
| Protein | 1–2g |
Note: Values will vary depending on brand of cake mix, oil vs. butter, and any additional mix-ins (like glaze or white chocolate).
Making It Healthier: Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free Options
Want to lighten things up without losing the flavor? Here are a few easy swaps:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. Most major brands offer one now.
- Reduced Sugar: Choose a sugar-free or low-sugar cake mix and replace the glaze with a light dusting of powdered monk fruit sweetener.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use oil instead of butter.
- Low-Fat Swap: Replace oil with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat and calories.
Even with these changes, you’ll still get a soft, chewy cookie with that signature strawberry lemonade flavor.
Conclusion
Strawberry lemonade cookies are more than just a fun summer dessert—they’re nostalgic, simple, and packed with flavor. From their vibrant pink color to their zesty bite, they bring a unique twist to your dessert table with very little effort. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just want to bake something sweet and sunny, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Simple ingredients. Big flavor. Pure sunshine.
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