Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies bring sweet joy to any occasion. They are the perfect treat to celebrate love and friendship. With a delightful flavor and charming shapes, these cookies make a wonderful gift or snack. Baking together can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. Everyone loves the taste of fresh cookies, especially when they are made with care.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is easy and beginner-friendly, making it great for bakers of all skill levels. You can create delicious cookies without spending hours in the kitchen. Making homemade cookies is also a better choice than store-bought options. You control the ingredients and can customize them to your liking. Plus, they are budget-friendly, ensuring you can treat friends and family without breaking the bank.

What makes Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies special

These cookies stand out with their soft and tender texture. They melt in your mouth and boast a sweet vanilla flavor with a hint of almond. Using simple, natural ingredients elevates them above store-bought varieties filled with preservatives. The process of rolling and cutting out shapes allows for a fun and creative baking experience. Whether you decorate them with icing or keep them simple, these cookies are sure to impress.

Is Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies healthy

While sugar cookies are a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation within a balanced diet. Made with wholesome ingredients, these cookies do not contain any artificial additives. Opting for natural sugars and choosing gluten-free options can give you peace of mind. However, it’s important to enjoy them as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.

How to make Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is a simple and stress-free process. You’ll cream the butter and sugars, then blend in the eggs and extracts. Mixing dry ingredients is equally straightforward. Divide the dough, roll it out, and cut it into fun shapes. With just a few steps, you can create beautiful cookies in no time. This recipe requires a little mixing and rolling, but it’s beginner-friendly and quick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature or softened slightly)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for sprinkling on top of cookies)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
• 3 cups flour or gluten-free flour blend
• 1 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (optional, only if using gluten-free flour blend that doesn’t contain xanthan gum)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt

Directions

1. Cream butter and both types of sugar in a mixing bowl for two minutes.
2. Add eggs, one at a time, and blend until well incorporated.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients, one cup at a time, to wet ingredients, mixing until blended.
6. Add 1-3 drops of food coloring for desired color intensity and mix until dough forms.
7. Divide dough into two balls and knead each until color is smooth.
8. Roll out the dough on parchment paper to a thickness of 1/4 to 1/3 inch, then cut out shapes with a greased cookie cutter.
9. Place shapes on parchment-lined cookie sheets and chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
10. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 6-9 minutes, depending on size and thickness.
11. Remove cookies when they are firm in the middle but not browned on the edges.
12. Cool cookies on the sheet for 3-5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
13. Once cooled, dust cookies with powdered sugar using a mesh strainer.

How to serve Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any time of day. Serve them as a sweet breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea. They also make an excellent snack for lunch boxes or an afternoon pick-me-up. For special occasions, arrange them on a festive platter. You can present them as cherished gifts, wrapped in colorful cellophane, or add them to dessert tables at parties. Their beautiful shapes and dusting of powdered sugar will surely draw attention.

 

Best occasions to make Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies suit many occasions. They are wonderful for Valentine’s Day celebrations, where you can share them with loved ones. Bake them for family gatherings, holiday parties, or a simple weeknight treat. They also make an ideal snack during movie nights or as a special addition to school events. Whenever you want something sweet, these cookies are the perfect choice.

How to store Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container. They can last for about a week, maintaining their soft texture. If you want to extend their life, store them in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just be sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Can you make Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies ahead of time

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. You can chill the dough in the fridge overnight if needed. After rolling and cutting the shapes, you can freeze the raw cookies before baking. This way, you can bake them fresh whenever the craving hits. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are still frozen.

Tips to make Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

• Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid over-baking. Cookies should be firm in the center and slightly soft around the edges.
• For best results, use fresh ingredients, especially the baking powder.
• If the dough is too sticky to roll, let it chill a bit longer.
• Experiment with different shapes for added fun.

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Variation

You can easily customize these cookies. Try adding zest from lemons or limes for a citrus twist. Substitute almond extract with other flavored extracts, such as peppermint or coconut. Use fun food coloring to create a rainbow effect or seasonal themes. You can also use whole wheat flour or other gluten-free flours for different textures. Chocolate chips or sprinkles can be added to the dough for added flavor and fun.

FAQs

Can Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. Just ensure they cool completely before freezing.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar for decoration?

You can use granulated sugar, but powdered sugar gives a lovely finishing touch to these cookies.

How long do Fast and Easy Valentine’s Sugar Cookies last?

They stay fresh for about a week at room temperature, but can last longer in the fridge or freezer.