Name: Valentine Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 135 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 142 min
Ingredients: 6 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temp; 2 cups sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla; 1 1/2 cups sour cream; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temp; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 pinch salt; 6 Tablespoons heavy cream; food coloring, optional

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There’s something magical about the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth perfection of homemade Valentine Sugar Cookies. These tender, heart-shaped treats are delicately crisp on the edges yet soft and chewy in the center, making every bite a celebration of texture. Infused with a hint of vanilla and topped with a glossy, sweet glaze, they’re the ultimate way to share love—or indulge in a little self-care.

With just over 2 hours of prep and a quick 7-minute bake, these cookies are surprisingly simple to make yet feel utterly special. Whether you’re gifting them or savoring them fresh from the oven, their rich, comforting flavors and festive charm are sure to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Ingredients for Valentine Sugar Cookies

For the Sugar Cookies:
6 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (softened but not melted)
2 cups sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups sour cream (can substitute with plain Greek yogurt)
For the Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar (sifted for smoother frosting)
Pinch of salt
6 Tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for a lighter consistency)
Food coloring (optional, for festive colors)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar together at medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the vanilla and sour cream, then beat at low speed until just combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating at low speed until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Roll and Cut: Lightly flour your work surface and the top of the dough. Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for 7 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. Avoid overbaking for soft cookies.
Cool: Immediately transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting: In a bowl, cream together the butter and vanilla. Slowly beat in the powdered sugar and salt. Once smooth, add the heavy cream and beat at medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.
Frost and Enjoy: Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the buttercream frosting and enjoy!

Creative Frosting and Decorating Ideas

Take your Valentine Sugar Cookies to the next level with fun and festive decorations! Use heart-shaped sprinkles, edible glitter, or red and pink sanding sugar for a romantic touch. For a marbled effect, mix two shades of frosting and swirl them together before piping. If you’re feeling artistic, try using a small paintbrush to create watercolor-like designs with diluted food coloring.

Storage Tips for Freshness

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve frosted them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers

Short on time? Skip the chilling step by rolling the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and cutting shapes directly on the paper. You can also make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. For quicker frosting, use store-bought icing and jazz it up with a drop of vanilla extract or food coloring.

Perfect Pairings for Your Cookies

Serve your Valentine Sugar Cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or a festive pink latte for a cozy treat. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert. For a romantic touch, arrange them on a platter with chocolate-dipped strawberries or mini cupcakes.

Common Questions Answered

Can I use salted butter? Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting. Why is my dough sticky? This is normal! Chill it longer or add a bit more flour when rolling. Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for equally delicious results.