Description
Delight in these charming Slice and Bake Heart Cookies, perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat. Soft, buttery, and beautifully crafted with a red heart center wrapped in classic vanilla dough, these cookies bring a touch of love to every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
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 well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Divide and Color Dough: Split the dough evenly into two portions. Add red food coloring to one half and knead until you achieve your desired shade of red for the heart shape.
- Shape the Heart Dough: Roll the red-colored dough into a log, then carefully shape it into a heart form. Wrap the heart dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Surround with White Dough: Roll the plain (white) dough into a rectangle large enough to encase the heart. Place the chilled heart dough in the center and fold the white dough around it, rolling gently to smooth and seal the edges.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the dough log into 1/4-inch thick cookies and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy your beautifully crafted heart-shaped cookies.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- For a deeper red heart, add food coloring gradually until you reach the preferred intensity.
- Chilling the heart dough helps maintain its shape when encased and sliced.
- Slicing the dough into uniform thickness ensures even baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to one week.
