How to Make Valentine's Heart-Shaped Cookies

Today, let’s talk about cookies—but not just any cookies. We’re talking about Valentine’s Day heart-shaped cookies that are as adorable as they are delicious! If you’re like me, you know there’s something almost romantic about rolling out cookie dough, cutting it into hearts, and decorating each one with frosting and sprinkles. It’s like culinary poetry, turning simple ingredients into edible love notes.

Speaking of romance, did you know that the Romanticism movement (think passion, emotion, and creativity) wasn’t just about art and literature? It celebrated personal expression, much like these cookies. Each one is a mini masterpiece, decorated with care and bursting with homemade charm. In this blog, I’ll walk you through how to make these Valentine’s Heart-Shaped Cookies, share some pro decorating tips, and give you a few ideas to make them uniquely yours!

Why You'll Fall in Love with These Heart-Shaped Cookies

I'm telling you, these cookies are fantastic. You may have fun painting them, mix some colorful frosting and sprinkles, and then let your imagination run free.

Also, they're incredibly simple to create! There are no clever movements or stress. Nothing fancy, just plain old cookie magic. This recipe is easy enough for anyone to follow, even if they have never tried baking!

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• • • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup butter, softened
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 egg
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 tablespoon milk
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

• • • 250 g powdered sugar
    • 1 egg white
    • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Food coloring (optional)
    • Sprinkles (for that extra fun touch!)

How to Make Valentine's Heart-Shaped Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large plastic mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until it’s fluffy and pale—this is the foundation of all great cookies! Next, add in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat again until it’s all well combined. Slowly mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Trust me, the dough comes together so nicely!

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Zulay Says: Wrap that dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This step is key because it makes the dough easier to roll out and helps the cookies hold their cute heart shape while baking.

Step 3: Cut Out the Hearts

Once your dough is chilled and ready, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare two baking sheets with silicone mats (or parchment paper if that’s more your style). Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/8" thick. This is where the fun begins! Grab your heart-shaped cookie cutter and start cutting out as many cookies as possible. Place them on the baking sheets with just a bit of space in between.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake those beauties for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just lightly browned. The key here is not over-baking—they should be soft and slightly golden around the edges. Let them cool completely before decorating. This is probably the most challenging part of the process…waiting!

Now, for the fun part: Decorating!

We all know that decorating is where the magic happens. And trust me, making these cookies look like they came straight out of a bakery is so easy. Here’s how to whip up the glaze and make these cookies pop with color and sparkle.

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In one bowl, sift the powdered sugar using a sifter to avoid lumps. In another bowl, beat the egg white until it’s foamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating constantly until you get a smooth, thick glaze. With the help of our metal lemon squeezer, squeeze then add some lemon juice to balance the sweetness, and keep beating until the mixture is creamy.

Step 2: Color the Glaze

If you want to get fancy (and of course you do), divide the glaze into small bowls and tint, each with a different color of food coloring. Pastel pinks and vibrant reds—this is Valentine’s Day, so the more romantic, the better!

Step 3: Decorate Like a Pro

Use a piping bag to ice your cookies precisely, or if you’re feeling casual, a spoon works too! Drizzle, spread, swirl—whatever your heart desires. Top with sprinkles for that extra dash of love, and let the icing set completely before serving or gifting.

Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfect Heart-Shaped Cookies

• Don’t skip the chilling step! It ensures your cookies hold their shape and makes the dough easier to work with.
• Keep an eye on those cookies. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers should still be soft.
• This is your chance to get artsy! Use different glaze colors, try out various sprinkle combinations, or even write little messages on the cookies. Think "Be Mine" or "Love You" for that classic Valentine's Day feel.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Valentine's Day

Sure, you could buy a box of chocolates, but making these cookies shows extra love and care. Homemade always wins. Also, these heart-shaped cookies are so easy to customize and perfect for gifting. You could even bake a batch for a Valentine’s party and wow everyone with your baking skills!

Let Us Know What You Think!

Did you try out these Valentine's Heart-Shaped Cookies? How did they turn out? Share your baking experience with us in the comments below! We love hearing your feedback and are always excited to see how you make our recipes your own. Plus, if you have any other Valentine's Day treat ideas, feel free to drop them in the comments too—we’re always looking for inspiration.

Know Someone Who Needs to See This?

Don’t keep this sweet secret to yourself! Share this blog with your friends, family, and followers. And if you post your cookie creations on social media, don’t forget to tag us at @zulay_kitchen and use #kitchenhappiness. We can’t wait to see your beautiful (and delicious) cookies!