If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, then you need to try these Homemade Strawberry Cookie Boats with Vanilla Cream and Fresh Berries. These sweet little treats are the perfect combination of buttery cookie crusts, velvety vanilla cream, and vibrant fresh fruits — basically, summer in every bite!
Whether you’re planning a brunch, baby shower, or just a fun weekend baking project with the kids, these cookie boats are easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and super Instagrammable.
🍓 Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cookie Boats
There’s something magical about desserts that feel playful and elegant. These Strawberry Cookie Boats tick all the boxes:
• Soft and chewy cookie base shaped like a boat for creative presentation
• Lush vanilla cream filling made from scratch
• Fresh, seasonal berries for a burst of color and flavor
• Customizable — swap berries, add drizzle, or even chocolate chips!
They’re perfect for summer parties, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something special.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookie Boats:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
For the Vanilla Cream:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
For the Toppings:
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup blueberries
• ½ cup raspberries
• Optional: mint leaves, powdered sugar for garnish
👩🍳 How To Make Strawberry Cookie Boats Step-by-Step
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming together butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Shape the Cookie Boats
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini tart pan or muffin tin.
Take a small ball of dough (about 1½ tablespoons), press it into the tin, and shape it into a boat-like shell by pressing it up the sides. Use the back of a spoon or your thumb to help form a shallow well in the center.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 4: Whip the Vanilla Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, mix mascarpone (or cream cheese) with powdered sugar and vanilla. Gently fold in the whipped cream until smooth and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cookie Boats
Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream into the cooled cookie boats. Top generously with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Garnish with mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Cookie Boats
• Chill the dough to help hold the shape during baking.
• Use seasonal berries for the freshest, most flavorful results.
• Make the cookie boats a day ahead and store them unfilled in an airtight container to save time.
• For a twist, add lemon zest to the cream for a citrusy punch.
🫐 Variations To Try
Want to get creative? Here are a few ideas:
• Chocolate Drizzle – Melt white or dark chocolate and drizzle over the top.
• Lemon Curd Filling – Swap the vanilla cream for tart lemon curd.
• Tropical Vibes – Use mango, kiwi, and coconut flakes instead of berries.
These swaps make it easy to turn this base recipe into a whole range of delicious cookie boats for different themes or seasons.
🧁 Final Thoughts: A Bite of Bliss
Homemade Strawberry Cookie Boats with Vanilla Cream and Fresh Berries are the kind of treat that makes any occasion feel special. They’re sweet, light, and bursting with flavor — a delightful way to highlight fresh, seasonal produce while indulging in a buttery cookie base.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a kitchen pro, these adorable cookie boats are fun to make and even more fun to share. Give them a try, and don’t forget to snap a pic before they disappear — because trust me, they will.