Valentine’s Day Cookies

Name: Valentine’s Day Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; Royal icing for decoration; Food coloring (red, pink)

Celebrate this Valentine’s Day by baking heart-shaped cookies that are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes! With their vibrant colors and sweet flavors, these cookies are perfect for sharing with someone special. Whether for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these cookies will surely spread joy and love. Let’s dive into the recipe and create sweet memories together!

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
Royal icing for decoration
Food coloring (red, pink)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-12 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. Note that values may vary based on the ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies.
Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with royal icing.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, use dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version. Feel free to experiment with different extracts or spices for unique flavors!

Serving and Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, tea, or coffee. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter for special gatherings or as gifts for loved ones.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
Not chilling the dough may result in cookies spreading too much while baking.
Using too much flour can make cookies dry; always measure accurately.
Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the texture; use an oven thermometer.
Skipping the cooling time before decorating can cause icing to melt.

Helpful Tips

Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
Experiment with different icing designs for a personalized touch.
Consider adding sprinkles for extra color and fun.
Keep the dough cool while working, especially in warm weather.

FAQs

Can I use a different shape for the cookies?

Absolutely! While heart shapes are traditional for Valentine’s Day, feel free to use any cookie cutter shape you like. Just adjust baking time if the sizes differ significantly.

How can I make the icing colorful?

Add a few drops of food coloring to your royal icing and mix until you achieve the desired shade. You can also create marbled effects by swirling different colors together.

Can I decorate the cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake and decorate the cookies a few days in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of royal icing?

You can use buttercream frosting or glaze made from powdered sugar and milk as an alternative. However, these may not set as hard as royal icing does.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Making Valentine’s Day cookies is a delightful way to express your love and creativity. With their charming designs and sweet flavors, these cookies are not just treats; they’re a heartfelt gesture. Whether you share them with a partner, friends, or family, these cookies are sure to spread joy and sweetness this Valentine’s Day!