Introduction
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate love than by baking a batch of delightful heart-shaped cookies? These charming, soft, and chewy treats are not only delicious but are also a delightful addition to any romantic occasion. With every bite, you can taste the sweetness of love, making them perfect for sharing with friends, family, or that special someone. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s sure to brighten your Valentine’s Day!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup heart-shaped sprinkles
- Red and pink colored sugar for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is creamy and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the heart-shaped sprinkles, allowing a burst of color and fun to shine through each cookie.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies have cooled, sprinkle the red and pink colored sugar on top for an extra festive touch.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, be sure to use real vanilla extract. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy touch. If you want to change things up, try adding some mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the cookie dough for a different texture.
Cooking Techniques
Remember to use room temperature butter for easy creaming with the sugars, as this ensures a lighter texture. If possible, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking; this helps the cookies maintain their shape and intensifies the flavors!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Once baked, let the cookies cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
What if I don’t have almond extract?
You can either omit it entirely or replace it with additional vanilla extract for a lovely vanilla flavor.
Conclusion
These heart-shaped cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them the perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day celebrations. Whether you gift them to a loved one or savor them for yourself, each cookie is a little piece of love. Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet recipe, and remember, it’s the love you put into your cooking that makes it truly special!