Description
Soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Valentine Butter Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for your loved ones! With a delicate texture, a hint of vanilla, and a festive heart-shaped design, these cookies make a beautiful and tasty gift for Valentine’s Day. Decorate them with chocolate, sprinkles, or icing to make them even more special!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The key to a rich, buttery texture.
- ¾ cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth and soft dough.
- 1 large egg yolk – Adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a classic, sweet flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
Optional for Decoration:
- ½ cup melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark) – For dipping.
- Valentine’s sprinkles – Adds a festive touch.
- Pink or red icing – Perfect for piping designs.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps with easy rolling and clean cookie shapes.
Step 3: Cut Out the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional)
- Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
- Sprinkle with Valentine’s sprinkles or drizzle with pink/red icing.
- Let decorations set before serving or packaging.
Notes
- Use Softened Butter – This ensures a smooth and creamy dough.
- Chill the Dough – Helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Don’t Overbake – They should be lightly golden, not browned.
- Make it Extra Festive – Use food coloring to tint the dough pink or red!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes - Baking Time
- Cuisine: American