Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly mixed.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, beating until everything is well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If you’d like, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring and gently mix until the color is uniform throughout.
- Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing it to firm up.
- Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on your prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
- In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed with more milk or powdered sugar.
- Spread a small amount of frosting on the underside of one cookie and top it with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- Decorate the edges with heart-shaped sprinkles or sanding sugar for a festive touch.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Sweetheart Sandwich Cookies can serve a variety of purposes. Present them beautifully on a platter for a Valentine’s Day gathering, wrap them in cute cellophane bags as gifts, or serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. You can even create a DIY cookie bar at your event, letting guests decorate their cookies with more frosting and sprinkles!
How to store & freeze
To keep your Sweetheart Sandwich Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature where they can last for up to one week. If you have leftovers, consider freezing them. They store well in the freezer for up to three months when properly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. Just remember to let them thaw before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
- Chill the dough: If your kitchen is warm, consider popping the dough back in the fridge for a short time to make it easier to slice.
- Decorating options: Have fun with edible glitter or colored sugar to make your cookies sparkle!
- Filling variations: Use flavored creams or jams instead of frosting for a surprise twist on the classic sandwich.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? Try adding a teaspoon of matcha powder for a unique flavor profile and vibrant color. You can also experiment with different extracts such as coconut or hazelnut for a new twist. For a healthier approach, use almond flour or oat flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare Sweetheart Sandwich Cookies?
The overall time is about 2 hours, including chilling and baking. The active preparation time is approximately 30 minutes.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute. Just ensure it is a 1:1 swap for the best results.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you’re allergic to nuts or dislike the flavor, you can omit it or substitute with extra vanilla extract for a traditional flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should have slightly golden edges and a soft center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the wire racks.
Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies a few days in advance and fill them closer to when you plan to serve them for maximum freshness.
