1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Place freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor and blend until a fine powder forms.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter until smooth and creamy.

4. Add 3/4 cup powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy.

5. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the strawberry powder until evenly combined.

6. Add 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

7. Shape dough into a flat disk, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

8. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

9. Cut out 24 heart shapes using a cookie cutter and place on prepared baking sheets.

10. Bake for 14–16 minutes, until edges are set and bottoms are lightly golden.

11. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.