Ingredients
-
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon baking powder
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
-
1 large egg
-
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
-
Optional for decoration: royal icing, sprinkles, edible glitter, colored sugar, chocolate chips, or jam
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
-
Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
-
Place cookies on prepared baking sheets 1 inch apart.
-
Bake 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
-
Decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, chocolate, or any desired toppings.
Notes
-
Dough can be chilled for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
-
Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
-
For extra freshness, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
-
Use food coloring to create festive red and pink cookies for Valentine’s Day.
-
For dietary alternatives, consider gluten-free flour, vegan butter, or sugar substitutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American