Introduction: Can a Cookie Be a Love Letter?
Few things say “I care” like a homemade cookie—and even fewer do it as sweetly as heart cookies. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just a way to show someone love, these adorable treats are a timeless hit. Searches for “heart-shaped cookies” surge by over 80% in February, but they’re also popular for weddings, baby showers, and gifting throughout the year.
This recipe is easy, versatile, and perfect for decorating—so let’s get baking and spread a little joy, one heart at a time!
Ingredients List
This simple sugar cookie dough is perfect for cutting and decorating.
Cookie Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
Decorating:
- Royal icing or buttercream (various colors)
- Sprinkles, edible glitter, or sanding sugar
- Gel food coloring
- Piping bags or squeeze bottles
Substitution Tips:
– Use gluten-free flour blend if needed
– Replace butter with vegan margarine for dairy-free
– Use lemon or orange extract for a fruity twist
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
- Decorating Time: 20–30 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours (mostly inactive)
This recipe is faster than traditional rolled cookies, and can be prepped ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the cookies hold their shape.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough out on a floured surface to ¼ inch thick. Cut out heart shapes using cookie cutters.
Step 4: Bake
Place cookies on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely before decorating.
Step 5: Decorate
Use royal icing or buttercream to outline, flood, or detail your cookies. Add sprinkles or glitter before the icing sets.
Nutritional Information (Per cookie, approx. 24 cookies)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1.5g
Healthier options available below!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber
- Swap half the butter for unsweetened applesauce
- Use powdered monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar
- Choose a sugar-free or light icing version
- Add beetroot or strawberry powder for natural pink coloring
These swaps make heart cookies a little more heart-friendly—pun intended!
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange in a box with parchment paper for gifting
- Add to a dessert table at weddings or baby showers
- Serve with tea, milk, or a latte for a cozy treat
- Package as party favors with a custom tag
Tip: Write personalized messages with food markers for a fun twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping chill time: Warm dough spreads and loses shape
- Rolling dough too thin: Leads to over-baked or fragile cookies
- Overmixing the dough: Makes cookies tough
- Decorating while warm: Always cool cookies completely first
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Freezer (Undecorated): Freeze baked cookies up to 2 months
- Freezer (Decorated): Freeze flat in layers with parchment between
- Make-Ahead Tip: Bake cookies ahead and decorate fresh the day you serve
Pro Tip: Let icing dry fully overnight before stacking or wrapping.
Conclusion
These heart cookies are more than a sweet treat—they’re edible love notes, perfect for celebrations or everyday kindness. Easy to bake and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to warm hearts and bring smiles wherever they go.
Pin this recipe, bake a batch today, and share the love—because every bite should feel like a hug!
FAQs
Q: Can I make these without cookie cutters?
Yes! Use a glass rim or shape by hand with a butter knife.
Q: How do I get icing to harden?
Use royal icing and let it dry uncovered for at least 8 hours.
Q: Can kids help decorate?
Absolutely—these are perfect for decorating parties or family baking days!
Q: Can I use this dough for other shapes?
Yes! It works great with all cutters—stars, flowers, you name it.