Description

These Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially for Valentine’s Day or special celebrations! Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, these cookies are easy to make and decorated with royal icing or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Whether you’re baking with kids or simply want to add a sweet personal touch to a gift, these heart-shaped delights are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Ingredients

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2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Royal icing or colored sprinkles (for decoration)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Divide the dough into two portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
Once chilled, roll out one portion of dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Once cooled, decorate with royal icing or sprinkle with colorful sprinkles as desired.

Notes

If you prefer softer cookies, remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are golden.
Chilling the dough is essential for the cookies to hold their shape during baking, so don’t skip this step!
You can add more almond extract if you prefer a stronger almond flavor, or skip it for a classic vanilla taste.
These cookies are great for gifting, and they store well in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Holiday Treats, Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Holiday