Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. They’re soft, buttery, and perfect for decorating, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings and special events. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that everyone, regardless of baking skill level, can whip up a batch of these tasty cookies in no time.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 45mg
Why Make Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing
Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing are not just delightful; they’re also customizable for all tastes and occasions. Whether you’re making them for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just because, the cookie dough is quick to prepare and can be enhanced with various extracts and food colors. They offer a sweet treat that caters to both kids and adults, making them perfect for celebrations or cozy family evenings at home.
How to Make Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing Step by Step
Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 to 4 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for icing)
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
Red or pink food coloring (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Add milk one tablespoon at a time to achieve a soft dough consistency.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating to spreading consistency.
- Stir in vanilla extract and food coloring if desired.
- Once cookies are cooled, frost with buttercream icing using a spatula or piping bag.
How to Serve Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing
These cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a cup of milk or a warm beverage. For added flair, consider serving them with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a charming addition to a dessert platter alongside cakes and pastries.
How to Store Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. For longer storage, freeze the iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- For a softer cookie, be careful not to over-bake; the centers should remain soft when you remove them from the oven.
- Experiment with different extracts like lemon or coconut to create unique flavor profiles.
- When rolling out the dough, use plenty of flour to prevent sticking.
- To ensure even frosting, use a piping bag to add intricate designs.
Delicious Variations of Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing
Try adding some zest to the dough, like lemon or orange, for a refreshing twist. You can also incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor. For a more gourmet touch, consider drizzling the finished cookies with melted chocolate or covering them in a layer of fondant.
These Heart Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Icing are a must-try for anyone looking to add a sweet touch to their baking repertoire. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious!
