Heart Cookies

Heart Cookies are a delightful way to spread love and joy, whether it’s for Valentine’s Day or just a cozy afternoon treat. Picture this: soft, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth, with a lovely strawberry jam center. They’re fun to make, and the best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip them up! So, grab your aprons and let’s chat about how to create these charming cookies that will fill your home with sweet aromas and warm hearts. The step-by-step guide below will ensure your Heart Cookies turn out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Heart cookies blend a rich buttery flavor with a chewy texture that is irresistible. By using high-quality ingredients and precise measurements, these cookies come out perfectly moist and sweet, with a delightful jam center that resonates with the classic flavors of romance. This simple recipe balances sweetness with texture, making it an instant favorite at any gathering. When you bite into a cookie, the combination of flavors melds beautifully, creating a comforting experience that leaves you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Heart Cookies

These heart cookies are not just visually appealing; they embody love and creativity in baking. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any occasion that calls for a sweet gesture, their simplicity and comfort make them a favorite for baking enthusiasts in the USA. You’ll adore the ease of the recipe and the joy they bring to the table. Plus, who can resist a cookie that doubles as a cute gift? The heart shape adds a whimsical touch, making them fun for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (66 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (140 grams) all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons (40 grams) strawberry jam (smooth and seedless)

Make Your Heart Cookies

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric mixer, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. The goal is to get a light blend that will make your cookies airy and delicious.

Mix in Egg Yolk and Flavor

Next, add the large egg yolk, almond extract, and salt to the mixture. Beat until all ingredients are fully combined. The almond extract gives a lovely hint of flavor that makes these Heart Cookies truly special. You’ll notice the dough starting to come together at this stage, which is always exciting!

Incorporate the Flour

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the bowl while mixing on low speed. Keep going until the dough resembles crumbs. If needed, you can use your hands to form the dough. It’s okay if this step gets a little messy; that means you’re having fun!

Shape the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Roll the dough into sixteen 1-inch balls, roughly around 20 grams each. Place these balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they will fit in your freezer. Keep them about 2 inches apart since they will spread while baking.

Create Heart Shapes

Using your pinky finger, gently press each cookie ball into a heart shape. Make sure to create a wide indent without pressing through the dough. Next, spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry jam into each indent. This step adds a pop of color and sweetness. Watching that jam nestle into the heart shape is such a joyful sight!

Chill the Cookies

Place the shaped cookies in the freezer for 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps them hold their shape during baking. While the cookies chill, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want it hot and ready for these lovely treats!

Bake the Cookies

After chilling, remove the cookies from the freezer. Arrange them on another parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake in the oven for about 13-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Cool and Store

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, here’s the important part: store any baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. But let’s be real—these are so delicious, they’ll likely disappear quickly!

Serving Suggestions

These heart cookies are delightful on their own but take them up a notch by serving with a side of fresh fruit. You could also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over them for a more indulgent treat. Either way, they’ll make everyone’s heart skip a beat.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Chill the cookie dough to maintain the shape during baking.
• Experiment with different jam flavors for a unique twist. Raspberry or apricot can also give a flavorful surprise!

Variations

If you feel adventurous, substitute the almond extract with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. You can also try using various types of jam to suit your taste preferences. Imagine a batch with raspberry jam—they’d be fantastic!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A1: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. They’ll taste just as good!

Q2: How do I prevent spreading during baking?
A2: Make sure the dough is chilled before baking. This will keep them from losing their shape.

Q3: Can I use a different fruit preserve?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite fruit preserve or jam.

Q4: How can I store these cookies long-term?
A4: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q5: What’s the best way to soften butter quickly?
A5: Cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. It’ll be soft and ready to use in no time!

Heart cookies are a charming treat that everyone will love, bringing sweetness and warmth to any occasion. Their simple preparation and delightful flavor make them a perfect choice for cozy gatherings or heartfelt celebrations. Whether shared with loved ones or savored on your own, these cookies are sure to bring a smile. Enjoy the process of baking them as much as the joy they bring!

Print