Description
Almond Heart Cookies are tender, buttery treats with a rich almond flavor. Shaped into heart designs, these cookies are perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones. They’re easy to make, and the combination of almond extract and a delicate buttery texture makes them irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough
- Almond Flour: Adds a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture
- Unsalted Butter: Softened, for a rich and tender texture
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the buttery dough
- Egg: Helps bind the dough and gives structure
- Almond Extract: Adds that signature almond flavor
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness
For the Icing (Optional):
- Powdered Sugar: To create a smooth, sweet icing
- Milk: To thin out the icing and make it spreadable
- Almond Extract: To continue the almond flavor in the icing
- Food Coloring: Optional, to tint the icing (red or pink for Valentine’s Day)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sliced Almonds: For extra almond flavor and texture
- Sprinkles: For a festive touch (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly soft but not sticky.
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and wrap each in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or until firm. This step will make it easier to roll out the dough and cut out heart shapes.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. If you prefer, you can make the hearts smaller or larger based on your preference.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Icing (Optional):
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with a tablespoon of milk and almond extract until smooth. Add more milk if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
- If desired, tint the icing with a few drops of food coloring for a festive touch.
- Decorate the Cookies:
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread or drizzle the almond icing over the top of each cookie. You can also dip the cookies halfway into the icing for a more decorative look.
- Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds or festive sprinkles on top while the icing is still wet.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving or storing the cookies.
- These cookies make for a perfect Valentine’s Day treat, a gift for a loved one, or a delicious snack!
Notes
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough by 1/4 cup.
- These cookies are also great for other holidays by changing the icing color or decorations.
- Make sure the dough is chilled thoroughly before rolling out to avoid any sticking or difficulty with cutting shapes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Almond cookies, heart-shaped cookies, Valentine’s Day cookies, almond-flavored cookies, easy cookies, holiday treats, festive cookies