INTRODUCTION
This Easy Strawberry Glaze Recipe (Cookie and Cake Icing) is quick and simple. You can make a bright, sweet glaze in about 15 minutes. It uses fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, and vanilla. The glaze has a real fruit taste and a smooth texture. It sticks well to cookies and cakes. It also looks pretty when you pour it over baked goods. If you like fresh berry taste, you will enjoy this glaze and use it often. For a matching jam idea, try this quick easy strawberry jam recipe for a fuller fruit pairing.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast and uses few ingredients. It keeps the fresh strawberry flavor. It is smooth and pours easily over cakes and cookies. You do not need special skills to make it. The sugar balances the fruit’s tang. Vanilla adds warm flavor. You can make a thin glaze or a thick icing by changing a little powdered sugar. This makes the glaze useful for many treats. It also stores well for a few days in the fridge. If you want a different berry flavor, you can use other berries and still keep the same method.
HOW TO MAKE Easy Strawberry Glaze Recipe (Cookie and Cake Icing)
This section shows the simple steps in order. Read all steps first. Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the fruit. The glaze should be smooth and not runny when you want a thicker coat on cookies.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Small saucepan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small bowl for mashing strawberries
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother glaze)
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup chopped strawberries
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
To a small saucepan over medium heat, add water and sugar, and stir to combine. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, until the sugar dissolves. Mash strawberries in a small bowl, then add them to the sugar syrup. Simmer on low for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from the heat and let the sauce cool. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar to a medium sized bowl. Pour the cooled strawberry sauce into the bowl and stir until well combined.
HOW TO SERVE Easy Strawberry Glaze Recipe (Cookie and Cake Icing)
Serve this glaze warm or at room temperature. For cakes, pour the glaze over a cooled cake and let it drip down the sides. Use a spoon or offset spatula to spread it evenly. For cookies, dip the top of each cookie or spoon a little glaze over the center. Let the glaze set for about 10–20 minutes before stacking or packing. If you want a glossy finish, use the glaze right after you mix it so it is still a bit warm and fluid. You can also chill the glazed item for a firmer set.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easy Strawberry Glaze Recipe (Cookie and Cake Icing)
Store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before using because the glaze may thicken in the cold. If it is too thick, add 1/2 teaspoon of warm water at a time until you get the texture you want. You can freeze the cooked strawberry sauce (before you mix it with powdered sugar) in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then mix with powdered sugar and vanilla when you are ready to use it.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Use this glaze on sugar cookies, pound cake, pancakes, muffins, and scones. Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a quick dessert. You can spoon it into the center of a tart for extra fruit flavor. Try it on a fresh strawberry shortcake for an extra bright finish; for a classic match, see this strawberry shortcake recipe. The glaze also pairs well with lemon or almond flavored baked goods.
VARIATIONS
- Thicker glaze: Add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until you reach a spreadable icing.
- Thinner glaze: Add a small splash of water or lemon juice to thin the glaze for drizzling.
- Seed-free glaze: Push the cooked strawberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer before adding to powdered sugar.
- Mixed berry glaze: Use a mix of raspberries and strawberries for a deeper fruit taste. For a berry jam that works well with these flavors, try this delicious blueberry jam recipe.
- Boozy glaze: Add 1 teaspoon of liqueur like Grand Marnier or a fruit liqueur for adult desserts.
- Spiced glaze: Stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon or a little grated lemon zest for a change in flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries for this glaze?
A: Yes. Thaw them first and drain extra juice if needed. Mash them and proceed with the recipe. You may need slightly less cooking time.
Q: How do I make the glaze smooth with no lumps?
A: Use a fine mesh strainer to remove seeds and larger pieces. Whisk well after you add the powdered sugar. Sift the powdered sugar if you often get lumps.
Q: Will the glaze harden on cookies?
A: The glaze will set to a soft finish. If you want a harder shell, add extra powdered sugar until it becomes firmer. Let cookies dry at room temperature.
Q: Can I use this as a filling?
A: The glaze is not thick enough for a stable filling. For a filling, cook down the fruit longer and reduce until thicker, or mix with cornstarch cooked into the fruit sauce.
Q: How long does the glaze last on a baked item at room temperature?
A: It is safe for a day at room temperature on dry cookies. For cakes with cream fillings, keep them refrigerated.
Q: Can I use honey or another sweetener instead of granulated sugar?
A: Granulated sugar helps create a clear syrup and balanced taste. Honey will change flavor and texture, so use it with care and reduce the amount slightly.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy Strawberry Glaze Recipe (Cookie and Cake Icing)
Make the strawberry sauce ahead and chill it. When you are ready, mix it with powdered sugar and vanilla. This keeps prep time short on baking day. If you want the glaze ready to pour, mix it about 30 minutes before you need it so it reaches the right thickness. If you need to store it longer, freeze the cooked strawberry sauce in portion bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then combine with powdered sugar and vanilla when needed.
Easy Strawberry Glaze
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water and sugar, stirring to mix. Cook for 3-4 minutes until sugar dissolves.
- Mash strawberries in a small bowl and add them to the sugar syrup. Simmer on low heat for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the sauce cool.
- In a medium mixing bowl, add vanilla extract and powdered sugar.
- Pour the cooled strawberry sauce into the bowl and stir until well combined.