There's something magical about Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies. Perfectly crisp around the edges, soft in the middle, and with just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies are the ultimate treat for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, or any day you want to spread a little love.
I first baked these cookies as a gift for my best friend, and they’ve since become a tradition in my kitchen. Simple to make yet stunning to look at, they never fail to impress. Let’s dive into why these cookies are about to become your go-to recipe for special occasions!
Why You'll Love These Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies
Get ready to swoon over these delightful cookies! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, there are so many reasons to love this recipe.
First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of cookies that look like they came straight from a bakery.
Second, they’re completely customizable. You can leave them plain, add sprinkles, or decorate with royal icing to make them truly your own.
Third, these cookies are perfect for gifting. Their adorable heart shape and buttery vanilla flavor make them an irresistible treat to share with loved ones.
Finally, they’re great for making memories. Whether you’re baking with kids, a partner, or on your own, these cookies bring a sense of joy and creativity to the kitchen.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these heart-shaped sugar cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- All-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the cookies. Be sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.
- Unsalted butter: The key to that rich, buttery flavor. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the crisp edges while keeping the centers soft.
- Vanilla extract: A good-quality vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making these cookies truly delightful.
- Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds a bit of richness to the dough. Use a large egg for the best results.
- Baking powder: Gives the cookies a little lift and keeps them from being too dense.
For equipment, you’ll need a rolling pin, a heart-shaped cookie cutter, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
How To Make These Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is as fun as it is simple. Let me guide you through the process step by step.
- Prepare the Dough: Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, tender cookie. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape it into discs, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many shapes as possible, then place them on your prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for making ahead.
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week. Place a sheet of wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies. For the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. For baked cookies, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.
- Reheating: If freezing the baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Add a Flavor Twist: Swap out vanilla extract for almond, lemon, or even peppermint extract for a unique flavor profile.
- Decorate Creatively: Use royal icing, buttercream, or melted chocolate to decorate the cookies. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or sanding sugar for an extra festive touch.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
- Chocolate Dipped: Once the cookies have cooled, dip them halfway into melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.
- Add Zest: Incorporate citrus zest into the dough for a bright, zesty flavor.
Don’t be afraid to experiment – the possibilities are endless!
Heart-shaped sugar cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a way to show love, share joy, and make memories. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing them, or indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to delight. So grab your rolling pin, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
PrintHeart-shaped Sugar Cookies Recipe
These heart-shaped sugar cookies are a delightful treat for Valentine’s Day, weddings, or any celebration. Made with simple ingredients, these cookies are buttery, sweet, and easy to customize with colorful icing or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy plain!
Notes
- Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if it’s too soft to roll out.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- These cookies freeze well—just wrap them tightly before freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
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