Heart-Shaped Butter Sugar Cookies

Name: Heart-Shaped Butter Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Royal icing; Sprinkles; Colored sugar

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely adore making these heart-shaped butter sugar cookies, especially during special occasions like Valentine's Day. The buttery flavor combined with just the right amount of sweetness makes them an irresistible treat. I love how the dough comes together easily, allowing me to roll it out and cut it into perfectly shaped hearts. Whether I'm decorating them with colorful icing or enjoying them plain, these cookies always bring back fond memories and spread joy to everyone who tastes them. Trust me, they’ll vanish in no time!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T15:28:28.871Z

When I first tried my hand at baking these heart-shaped cookies, I was surprised by how simple the process was. With just a few basic ingredients like flour, butter, and sugar, I was able to create something that looked so beautiful and tasted divine. The key is to ensure the butter is at just the right temperature, soft enough to mix but not melted, giving the cookies that desired texture.

Each time I bake them, I experiment with different icings and toppings. One of my favorite tips is to chill the dough before rolling it out, which makes it easier to handle and results in perfectly shaped cookies. The joy on my family’s faces as they enjoy these treats is truly rewarding!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Delicate buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Fun to decorate and perfect for gifting
Easy recipe that even beginners can master

      

The Role of Butter in Cookies

Butter plays a crucial role in the texture and flavor of your heart-shaped sugar cookies. By using unsalted butter, you not only control the saltiness but also achieve a creamy, rich base that enhances the buttery flavor. When creamed with sugar, the butter creates small air pockets, which contribute to a light and tender texture. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as this can affect the cookie's structure, leading to flat cookies.

For a slight twist, you can substitute half of the butter with cream cheese. This will still yield a tender cookie while adding a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness. If you're in a pinch, unsweetened applesauce can also be used as a butter substitute, but note that it will change the cookie’s flavor profile and result in a slightly chewier texture.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is an essential step to ensure your cookies hold their shape during baking. Once you've mixed the ingredients, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender cookie. If you have more time, chilling the dough for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavors even more, making each bite richer.

While chilling, make sure to keep the dough tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out. If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider chilling the dough for longer or dividing it into smaller portions for faster cooling. A handy tip is to keep your rolling pin and work surface slightly chilled as well; this will help the dough remain manageable and prevent sticking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration (optional)

Royal icing
Sprinkles
Colored sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then gradually add the dry ingredients until combined.

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Decorate (Optional)

Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with royal icing and sprinkles as desired. Allow the decoration to set before serving.

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. You can also add almond extract for a unique twist on the flavor.

Decorating Your Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to unleash your creativity with decorations! Royal icing is an excellent choice because it dries hard, allowing for intricate designs. To achieve the perfect consistency for piping, aim for a glossy, smooth texture. If you're looking for a gradient or flood effect, adjust the icing by adding a little water until it flows off the spoon smoothly but maintains its shape.

For simple yet festive touches, colored sugars and sprinkles can add vibrant flair to your cookies. I like to sprinkle them while the icing is still wet for a sticky adherence. Alternatively, you can use edible glitter for a sparkling finish. Don't hesitate to personalize your decorations—experiment with different colors and patterns to create heart-shaped cookies that reflect your style.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These heart-shaped cookies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Once baked and completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

If you're considering making cookie dough in advance, it can be frozen before baking as well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and seal it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting into shapes. This allows for maximum convenience while still delivering fresh, homemade cookies when you want them!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they're in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with margarine, but for the best flavor, butter is recommended.

→ How do I make royal icing?

To make royal icing, beat 2 egg whites with 3 cups of powdered sugar until smooth and glossy.

→ How long do these cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies will remain fresh for about a week.