Why You’ll Love Slice and Bake Heart Cookies Recipe

This recipe is perfect for cookie lovers who want a simple yet flavorful treat. The dough can be made in advance and kept in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making it a great choice for busy bakers. The heart shapes add a touch of personalization, making these cookies ideal for gifting or sharing at celebrations. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a subtle sweetness, these slice and bake heart cookies will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: red or pink sprinkles for decoration

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too soft, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Once the dough is firm, roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
If desired, sprinkle the cookies with red or pink sprinkles for a festive touch.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 18-24 cookies, depending on the size of your cookie cutter.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended)
Bake time: 8-10 minutes

Variations

Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the dough for a different flavor profile.
Decorations: You can dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate or drizzle them with icing for extra sweetness and flair.
Colorful: Incorporate colored sugar or sprinkles in your favorite shades to match any occasion.

Storage/Reheating

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and then place them in a resealable plastic bag.

To reheat, simply place the cookies on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back their fresh-baked flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use a different shape for the cookies?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses a heart-shaped cutter, you can use any shape you like.

3. How can I make these cookies softer?

For softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly or use a bit more butter in the dough.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Yes! Feel free to mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips for an added chocolatey twist.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are slightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them, as they can become hard.

6. How long can I store these cookies?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to 5 days at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be substituted, the cookies may not have the same rich flavor and texture as they would with butter.

8. Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute, but it may alter the texture or sweetness of the cookies.

9. Can I decorate these cookies with icing?

Yes! Once cooled, these cookies are perfect for decorating with royal icing, glaze, or colored sugar.

10. What’s the best way to cut the dough evenly?

If you want even-sized cookies, use a ruler to measure out the dough before cutting, or use a cookie cutter of consistent size for a uniform look.

Conclusion

These slice and bake heart cookies are a simple yet sweet way to bring a little joy to your day. With a few basic ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can create beautiful and delicious cookies for any occasion. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them with loved ones, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Slice and Bake Heart Cookies

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These Slice and Bake Heart Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. The buttery, soft cookies come in adorable heart shapes, and the simple slice-and-bake method makes them quick to prepare. With a light dusting of sugar or a colorful sprinkle, these cookies will melt in your mouth. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe is customizable with your favorite icing or toppings.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Slice and Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Colored sugar (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
Combine: Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Shape the Dough: Divide the dough in half. Roll each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, slice each log into 1/4-inch thick slices. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to gently press into each slice for a more defined shape.
Bake: Place the cookie slices onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, top with colored sugar or icing.

Notes

If you prefer softer cookies, bake for a shorter time, keeping an eye on them after 8 minutes.
You can decorate these cookies with royal icing or chocolate drizzle for extra flair.
These cookies can also be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.