Introduction
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a batch of freshly baked Valentine’s Day heart sugar cookies. With their delightful crunch on the outside and soft, tender centers, these cookies are both a festive treat and a heartfelt gift. The subtle notes of vanilla and almond in the dough create a deliciously sweet base that pairs perfectly with vibrant red and pink sprinkles. Whether you’re baking for a special someone, your family, or a group of friends, these charming cookies are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk
- Red and pink sprinkles or colored sugar (for decoration)
- Royal icing or your preferred frosting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This blend of dry ingredients will help your cookies rise and maintain their lovely shape.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until a dough forms. If the dough seems too crumbly, add buttermilk one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together or reaches your desired consistency.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrapping each half in plastic wrap. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to help firm up the dough.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to make clean-up a breeze.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness will ensure you get perfectly shaped cookies!
- Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out your cookies, placing them on the prepared baking sheets with a little space between each.
- Sprinkle the tops of the uncooked cookies with festive red and pink sprinkles or colored sugar for a cheerful touch.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The aroma will be simply irresistible!
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- If desired, decorate with royal icing or your favorite frosting to add an extra layer of sweetness!
Notes or Tips
Don’t forget, you can customize these cookies! Try adding a hint of lemon zest or a swirl of food coloring in your icing for a fun twist. When cutting the cookies, make sure to dust the cookie cutters with flour to prevent sticking. If you want a softer cookie, consider underbaking them by a minute or two!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfectly shaped cookies lies in chilling the dough. This step not only helps prevent spreading but also enhances the flavors. Remember, thorough mixing of the butter and sugar ensures that your cookies will be light and fluffy. Rolling out the dough evenly is crucial for consistent baking, so keep an eye on those edges!
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used if you need a dairy-free option.
How should I store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer freshness.
Conclusion
These Valentine’s Day heart sugar cookies not only taste incredible but also look absolutely adorable. They make for a perfect sweet treat to share with loved ones during the season of love. So roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite apron, and let the sweet aroma of cookies fill your home. Enjoy every bite and the smiles they bring!