Name: Heart Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup sugar; 2 eggs; 1½ tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; 3 cups all purpose flour; 8 oz semisweet chocolate chips; 1 tbsp shortening; ½ cup Valentine's Day sprinkles

Celebrate Valentine's Day or any special occasion with these delightful heart cookies. They are buttery, sweet, and dipped in rich chocolate, then adorned with colorful sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.

Photos of Heart Cookies Recipe

One ingredient you may not always have on hand is semisweet chocolate chips. Additionally, shortening is another component that might not be in your pantry but is essential for achieving a smooth, melt-worthy chocolate dip.

Ingredients For Heart Cookies Recipe

unsalted butter: Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor to the cookies.

sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.

eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

all purpose flour: The main structure of the cookies comes from this ingredient.

semisweet chocolate chips: Used to dip the cookies, adding a delicious chocolate coating.

shortening: Helps to smooth the melted chocolate for dipping.

valentine's day sprinkles: Adds a festive touch and fun texture to the finished cookies.

One reader, Adrianna Brockman says:

These heart cookies are delightful! The dough is easy to work with, and the end result is both beautiful and delicious. The chocolate dip and sprinkles add a festive touch. Perfect for Valentine's Day!

Adrianna Brockman

Techniques Required for Perfect Heart Cookies

How to beat butter and sugar: Explanation on how to properly cream butter and sugar together until smooth. How to add eggs: Explanation on how to incorporate eggs one at a time into the mixture. How to shape dough into a disc: Explanation on how to form the dough into a disc shape for chilling. How to roll dough: Explanation on how to roll the dough into a ½ inch thick rectangle. How to use a cookie cutter: Explanation on how to cut shapes from the rolled dough using a cookie cutter. How to melt chocolate: Explanation on how to properly melt chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave. How to dip cookies in chocolate: Explanation on how to dip cookies into melted chocolate and remove excess.

How To Make Heart Cookies

Sweet sugar cookies are glazed with dark chocolate and topped with sprinkles for these heart cookies. They’re the best treats to give away this Valentine’s.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupunsalted buttersoftened
1cupsugar
2eggs
1½tspvanilla extract
¼tspsalt
3cupsall purpose flour
8ozsemisweet chocolate chipsor dark chocolate candy melts
1tbspshorteningonly use if using chocolate chips
½cupValentine’s Day sprinkles

Instructions

In the bowl of a mixer, beat the butter and sugar for about 2 minutes until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add the vanilla and salt, then slowly mix in the flour until thoroughly combined.
Remove the dough from the bowl. Place the dough on a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a disc.
Wrap the plastic wrap around the dough and chill for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 day before baking the cookies.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
Divide the dough in half. Re-wrap one half of the dough and place it in the fridge. Roll the remaining dough into a ½ inch thick rectangle.
Using a 4-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many shapes from the dough.
Re-roll the dough and repeat the process until the first baking sheet is filled. Cookies should be spaced 1½ inches apart on the sheet.
Place the pan of cookies in the fridge and chill for 20 minutes.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until cookies are set and the edges are just barely turning brown.
Cool the cookies completely.
Repeat the same process with the other half of the dough.
Heat the chocolate chips + shortening OR candy melts (no shortening needed) in the microwave in 30-second increments until melted. Stir until smooth.
Dip half of each cookie into the chocolate, tapping against the bowl to remove the excess. Place the cookies on a sheet of parchment paper and quickly add the sprinkles onto the wet chocolate. Let set completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 229.02kcal
Fat: 11.53g
Saturated Fat: 6.81g
Trans Fat: 0.38g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.29g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.66g
Carbohydrates: 30.52g
Fiber: 0.98g
Sugar: 17.72g
Protein: 2.54g
Cholesterol: 33.67mg
Sodium: 31.87mg
Calcium: 9.82mg
Potassium: 59.07mg
Iron: 1.09mg
Vitamin A: 70.43µg

Expert Technique Tip for Shaping Heart Cookies

When rolling out the dough, lightly dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. If the dough becomes too soft while working with it, place it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up. This will make it easier to cut clean shapes with your cookie cutter.

Time-Saving Tips for Baking Heart Cookies

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Chill dough efficiently: Flatten the dough into a thinner disc to reduce chilling time.

Use parchment paper: Roll the dough between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and eliminate the need for extra flour.

Microwave chocolate: Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in short bursts to save time over stovetop melting.

Batch baking: Cut and prepare all cookies on multiple sheets so you can bake one batch while prepping the next.

Substitute Ingredients For Heart Cookies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture level, making it a good alternative for baking.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This mixture acts as a binding agent, similar to eggs.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile that complements many baked goods.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cookies denser.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Dark chocolate chunks offer a richer flavor and can be a healthier option due to higher cocoa content.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used in place of shortening for a similar texture, though it will add a richer flavor.
valentine's day sprinkles - Substitute with colored sugar crystals: Colored sugar crystals provide a similar decorative effect and can be found in various colors to match the theme.

Creative Ways to Present Heart Cookies

Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to make the heart cookies stand out and look elegant.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the heart cookies in a symmetrical pattern, such as a circle or a heart shape, to create visual harmony.
Dip in high-quality chocolate: Ensure the chocolate used for dipping is of the highest quality to enhance both flavor and appearance.
Add a touch of gold: Use edible gold leaf or gold dust to add a luxurious touch to the chocolate-dipped portion of the cookies.
Incorporate fresh berries: Place a few fresh raspberries or strawberries around the cookies to add color and a fresh element to the plate.
Use a contrasting sauce: Drizzle a small amount of raspberry coulis or strawberry sauce on the plate for a pop of color and additional flavor.
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a delicate, snow-like effect.
Garnish with edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as violets or pansies, around the cookies to add a touch of elegance and color.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Include a small dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side, perhaps in a separate mini dish, for added indulgence.
Finish with a mint leaf: Add a single mint leaf on top of the whipped cream or next to the cookies for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Essential Tools for Baking Delightful Heart Cookies

Mixer: Used to beat the butter and sugar until smooth and to mix in the eggs, vanilla, salt, and flour.
Mixing bowl: Holds the ingredients while they are being mixed.
Plastic wrap: Used to wrap the dough and chill it in the refrigerator.
Sheet pan: Used to bake the cookies in the oven.
Parchment paper: Lines the sheet pan to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Nonstick baking mat: An alternative to parchment paper for lining the sheet pan.
Rolling pin: Used to roll the dough into a ½ inch thick rectangle.
Heart-shaped cookie cutter: Cuts the dough into heart shapes.
Microwave: Melts the chocolate chips and shortening.
Bowl: Holds the melted chocolate for dipping the cookies.
Spatula: Used to stir the melted chocolate until smooth.
Cooling rack: Allows the cookies to cool completely after baking.
Measuring cups: Measures the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract and salt.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Heart Cookies

Once the chocolate has set, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To keep the cookies fresh for longer, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months.
To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
When ready to serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying them.
If you want to maintain the crisp texture of the chocolate coating, avoid refrigerating the cookies as this can cause the chocolate to develop a white bloom due to moisture condensation.

Interesting Trivia About Heart-Shaped Cookies

A fun fact about this heart cookies recipe is that chilling the dough before baking helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring they maintain their heart shape.

Is Making Heart Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This heart cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, and eggs are common pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. Specialty items like semisweet chocolate chips and valentine's day sprinkles add a festive touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Are Heart Cookies a Healthy Treat?

The heart cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - butter, sugar, and all-purpose flour - are high in saturated fat, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates. These components can contribute to various health issues when consumed in excess, such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Additionally, the semisweet chocolate chips and Valentine's Day sprinkles add even more sugar and unhealthy fats to the recipe.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup and experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or date paste
Use dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) instead of semisweet chips to reduce sugar content and increase antioxidants
Opt for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or grass-fed butter, in place of regular butter
Decorate the cookies with naturally-colored sprinkles made from fruit and vegetable extracts or omit the sprinkles altogether
Reduce the portion size of the cookies to encourage mindful indulgence

Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Heart Cookies

This heart cookies recipe is a delightful blend of classic sugar cookie dough and rich chocolate coating, perfect for Valentine's Day. The instructions are clear and methodical, ensuring a smooth baking process. Chilling the dough twice helps maintain the cookies' shape, and the addition of sprinkles adds a festive touch. The use of semisweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the cookies, while the shortening ensures a smooth, glossy finish. Overall, this recipe is well-structured and yields visually appealing, delicious cookies that are sure to impress.

Enhance Your Heart Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Complement the sweetness of the heart cookies with a vibrant fruit salad. Imagine a medley of berries, kiwi, and mango, drizzled with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of mint. This refreshing side dish will add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate-dipped cookies.

Cheese Platter: Balance the sugary delight of the heart cookies with a sophisticated cheese platter. Include a variety of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and blue cheese, paired with crackers, grapes, and fig jam. This savory option will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet treats.

Herb-Infused Lemonade: Wash down the heart cookies with a refreshing herb-infused lemonade. Picture a blend of fresh lemons, mint, and a hint of rosemary, creating a zesty and aromatic beverage. This drink will cleanse your palate and enhance the overall dessert experience.

Mini Quiches: Add a savory touch to your dessert spread with mini quiches. These bite-sized delights can be filled with a variety of ingredients like spinach, bacon, and cheese. The rich and creamy texture of the quiches will provide a delightful contrast to the crunchy heart cookies.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Enhance the chocolate theme of the heart cookies with chocolate-dipped strawberries. These juicy berries coated in a layer of rich chocolate will not only complement the cookies but also add an extra touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Delightful Alternative Cookie Recipes to Try

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Indulge in the classic combination of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate. Perfect for a romantic evening or a sweet treat anytime.

Red Velvet Cupcakes: These velvety cupcakes are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A delightful dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion.

Raspberry Linzer Cookies: Delicate buttery cookies filled with raspberry jam and dusted with powdered sugar. A beautiful and tasty treat.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Crunchy pretzels dipped in smooth chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt. A sweet and salty snack that’s easy to make.

Valentine's Day Sugar Cookies: Soft and chewy sugar cookies decorated with colorful icing and sprinkles. Perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Heart Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushroom caps are filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tender mushroom, making each bite a burst of flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a taste of Italy to your table with these vibrant caprese skewers. Fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves are threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a refreshing and visually appealing appetizer. Serve these skewers on a platter for a colorful and delicious start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, ensuring a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrusy marinade. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant flavors will make this a family favorite.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and nutritious option for any meal. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Why trust this Heart Cookies Recipe:

This heart cookies recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, perfect for any special occasion. With unsalted butter and sugar creating a rich, buttery base, and semisweet chocolate chips adding a delightful touch of sweetness, these cookies are sure to impress. The addition of valentine's day sprinkles makes them festive and fun. Follow the detailed instructions for a foolproof baking experience, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly every time. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation.

Share your favorite heart cookies recipe or discuss baking techniques in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How long do I need to chill the dough?

You should chill the dough for at least 1 hour, but you can leave it in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking the cookies.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you might want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

What can I use if I don't have a heart-shaped cookie cutter?

If you don't have a heart-shaped cookie cutter, you can use any other shape you like or even cut the dough into squares or circles with a knife or a glass.

How do I store the cookies after baking?

Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I use different types of chocolate for dipping?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for dipping, depending on your preference. Just make sure to melt it properly with a bit of shortening if needed.