Name: Heart-shaped Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional); Food coloring (optional for decoration); Royal icing or sprinkles for decorating

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There’s something magical about heart-shaped sugar cookies – their buttery sweetness, the soft crunch when you take a bite, and the endless ways to decorate them. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just want to spread some love, these cookies are a perfect way to say, "I care."

I first baked these cookies for my best friend’s bridal shower, and they quickly became a hit. The delicate texture, vibrant frosting, and charming shape made them the centerpiece of the dessert table. Let me show you how to make these irresistible cookies that are as delightful to bake as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this recipe! These cookies combine classic flavors with a touch of whimsy, making them a favorite for any occasion.

First and foremost, they’re simple yet elegant. The dough is easy to work with, and the heart-shaped cutters make them feel special without adding complexity.

Secondly, these cookies are incredibly versatile. Whether you want a traditional look with pastel frosting or prefer bold designs with royal icing and sprinkles, you can let your creativity run wild.

Perfect for gifting or sharing, these cookies hold up beautifully in decorative packaging, making them ideal for party favors or holiday treats.

Lastly, they’re a family-friendly activity. Kids love cutting out shapes and decorating with frosting – a fun way to create sweet memories in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these cookies so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these heart-shaped sugar cookies is in the balance of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component adds a layer of flavor or texture that creates the perfect bite.

All-Purpose Flour forms the base of the dough, giving the cookies their structure. Make sure to measure your flour correctly – too much can make the cookies tough.

Unsalted Butter is key for that rich, buttery flavor. Soften it before mixing for a smooth, creamy dough that’s easy to roll out.

For sweetness, granulated sugar is just right. It gives the cookies their crisp edges and balanced sweetness without being overly sugary.

Vanilla Extract adds warmth and depth, while a touch of almond extract enhances the flavor with a subtle nutty note. Don’t skip this – it’s a game-changer!

Eggs bind the dough and add richness. Make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.

Finally, you’ll need powdered sugar, food coloring, and sprinkles for decorating. These bring the cookies to life with vibrant colors and textures.

No special equipment is needed beyond a rolling pin, mixing bowls, and heart-shaped cookie cutters. Let’s move on to the fun part – baking and decorating!

How to Make Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies

Baking these cookies is a breeze! Follow these steps for foolproof results every time.

1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies will be tender. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.

3. Roll and Cut:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out as many shapes as possible, re-rolling scraps as needed.

4. Bake the Cookies:
Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely before decorating.

5. Decorate to Your Heart’s Content:
Whisk together powdered sugar with a few teaspoons of milk to create a smooth icing. Divide into bowls and add your desired food coloring. Use piping bags or a small spoon to spread icing on the cookies. Add sprinkles or edible glitter before the icing sets.

These cookies are ready in about 2 hours, including chill time – perfect for a weekend baking project!

Storage Options

These cookies store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead treat.

At Room Temperature: Keep decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Stack them with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
In the Freezer: Freeze undecorated cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate when ready.
Reheating Tips: For a freshly-baked taste, warm the cookies in the oven for 2-3 minutes at 300°F before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Flavored Extracts: Swap almond extract for lemon, orange, or peppermint for a seasonal twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent finish.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoon water) as a substitute for the egg.
Holiday-Themed Shapes: While hearts are perfect for Valentine’s Day, this dough works for any shape – stars, pumpkins, or snowflakes!

Get ready to wow your family and friends with these stunning heart-shaped sugar cookies. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this recipe is your ticket to creating something beautiful and delicious. Have fun baking, decorating, and sharing the love – one cookie at a time!