Description
These Sparkle Sweetheart Cookies are the perfect way to show your love! With their soft, buttery texture and a touch of sweetness from the sugar, these heart-shaped cookies are decorated with colorful sugar sprinkles, making them both festive and fun. Ideal for Valentine’s Day or any occasion to share the love!
Ingredients
Scale
For the cookies:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for added flavor)
- 1–2 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
For decorating:
- 1/4 cup colored sugar sprinkles (red, pink, or white)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until combined. If you’re using food coloring, add it to the dough at this point and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined, forming a soft dough. Do not overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
- Roll and Cut the Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion of the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (or any shape you prefer) to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Decorate: Gently press colored sugar sprinkles onto the top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cookies have cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, or packed in a cute gift box to share!
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker cookie, roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness instead.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- You can also use royal icing or melted chocolate to decorate the cookies for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cookies, Holiday Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American