Why Make This Recipe
Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. They are easy to make and allow you to express your love through a sweet treat. With a simple combination of basic ingredients, these cookies not only look delightful but also taste delicious. Plus, the fun of rolling and slicing the dough adds a hands-on experience that kids and adults can enjoy together.
How to Make Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- Red and pink food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together until creamy.
- Mix in the egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, and if desired, mix in food coloring to one half to create a colored dough.
- Roll each portion into a log and wrap in parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick pieces, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and sprinkle with decorative sugar if desired.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cool before serving.
How to Serve Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies
These cookies can be served plain or decorated with extra sprinkles for a festive touch. They are great for parties, gifts, or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Place them in a cute box or gift bag for a sweet surprise.
How to Store Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for about a week. If you want, you can also freeze the dough logs before slicing. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, slice while still frozen, then bake as directed.
Tips to Make Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies
- Make sure your butter is truly softened for a creamy mixture.
- Chill the dough thoroughly to make slicing easier.
- Experiment with different colors or shapes by using cookie cutters.
- Serve with a glass of milk for a classic pairing.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough for a different flavor. Another fun idea is to use seasonal cookie cutters for different holidays.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different taste and texture.
How can I make the cookies softer?
To make softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and keep an eye on them as they bake.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, chill it as directed, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Heart-Shaped Slice and Bake Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is softened for a creamy mixture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- Red and pink food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional) For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together until creamy.
- Mix in the egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, and mix in food coloring to one half if desired.
- Roll each portion into a log and wrap in parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick pieces, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and sprinkle with decorative sugar if desired.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cool before serving.