Name: Strawberry Shortbread Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup finely diced fresh strawberries; 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips (optional)

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortbread Bites Recipe

These strawberry shortbread bites are easy to prepare and require just a handful of pantry staples. The buttery shortbread base melts in your mouth, while the fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and a soft, fruity contrast. This small-batch recipe is ideal when you want something homemade without making a large quantity. They’re simple, elegant, and perfect for dessert trays, tea parties, or quick sweet cravings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup finely diced fresh strawberries
2 tablespoons white chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add the flour and salt, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Gently fold in the finely diced strawberries and white chocolate chips, if using. Pat the strawberries dry beforehand to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

For extra sweetness, you may drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled bites.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bites
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Variations

You can easily customize these strawberry shortbread bites. Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Add a touch of lemon zest to brighten the strawberry taste. For a slightly crunchier texture, sprinkle a bit of coarse sugar on top before baking. You can also experiment with other finely diced berries such as raspberries for a different fruity twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the strawberry shortbread bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Because of the moisture from the strawberries, these cookies are best enjoyed fresh.

If needed, refrigerate them for slightly longer storage, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh fruit may alter the texture once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly, then pat dry before adding.

Why should I pat the strawberries dry?

Removing excess moisture prevents the dough from becoming too wet and helps maintain the classic crumbly shortbread texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain pale and set.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients to make a larger batch.

Do I have to use white chocolate chips?

No, they are optional. The cookies are delicious with or without them.

Why is my dough too soft?

The strawberries may have added extra moisture. Try chilling the dough for 20–30 minutes before baking.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can add a pleasant crunch.

How should I serve these cookies?

They’re perfect on a dessert platter, paired with tea or coffee, or wrapped as a small homemade gift.

Are these cookies very sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness, with the buttery shortbread complementing the natural sweetness of the strawberries.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortbread Bites are a delightful small-batch dessert that combines buttery richness with fresh, fruity flavor. Easy to prepare and beautiful to serve, these crumbly treats are perfect for sharing and sure to become a favorite whenever you want a simple yet elegant homemade sweet.