Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Deliciously buttery and lightly tender, these heart-shaped sugar cookies are perfect for Valentine's Day and other heart-themed celebrations, easily decorated and kid-friendly to make.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, room temperature (unsalted) for even creaming and less salt control
- 1 cup granulated sugar classic sweetness and color
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla use pure vanilla extract for best flavor
- 1 large egg adds richness and structure
- 1 teaspoon water helps with dough consistency
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour provides the structure; see notes for substitutions
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder gives a light lift and tender crumb
- 0.25 teaspoon salt balances sweetness (omit if using salted butter and adjust to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment or a silicone mat.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and slightly pale, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the egg and water, then beat until fluffy and well combined. If the dough seems too stiff, add an extra ½ teaspoon of water.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until a soft dough forms.
- Scrape the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Chilling and Rolling
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut out shapes.
Baking
- Transfer cut shapes to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake one sheet at a time in the preheated oven for 6–8 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
- Let the cookies rest on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Notes
These cookies are versatile and can be decorated with buttercream, royal icing, or just sprinkled sugar. For best results, chill the dough well and watch for doneness to ensure a tender center.