Description
Classic slice-and-bake heart-shaped cookies featuring a buttery vanilla dough with a vibrant red heart center, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional
- Red food coloring (for heart dough)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
- Divide and Color Dough: Split the dough into two equal portions. Add red food coloring to one half and knead or mix until the color is evenly distributed, achieving the desired vibrant red shade for the heart dough.
- Shape the Heart Dough: Roll the colored red dough into a log shape, then carefully mold it into a heart shape. Wrap the heart-shaped dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Surround with White Dough: Roll out the plain (uncolored) dough into a rectangular shape on a flat surface. Place the chilled heart dough in the center of this rectangle, then fold and wrap the white dough around the heart, smoothing the edges so the shape remains intact and the surface is even.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a sharp knife, slice the composite dough roll into 1/4-inch thick cookies. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them evenly. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes to set. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and smoother dough.
- Red food coloring can be adjusted according to your preferred intensity; gel food coloring works best for vibrant color without adding extra moisture.
- Chilling the dough helps maintain defined shapes and prevents spreading during baking.
- Slicing dough evenly ensures uniform baking and consistent cookie thickness.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
