Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Sprinkles, icing, or decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add the egg and extracts: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
- Roll and cut: Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters (or any other shape) to cut out cookies.
- Bake: Arrange the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and decorate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with sprinkles, icing, or any other desired toppings.
- Enjoy: Once decorated, your sweet Valentine’s Day cookies are ready to enjoy or gift!