Heart-Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies

These Heart-Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or simply when you want to add a touch of love to your baking. Made with buttery shortbread dough and a hint of sweet strawberry flavor, these cookies are both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for special occasions: The heart shape makes these cookies ideal for romantic or festive moments.
• Simple yet elegant: While the recipe is straightforward, the result is a batch of cookies that look like they came from a bakery.
• Customizable: Adjust the flavors, decorations, and even shapes for different celebrations.
• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These shortbread cookies have a buttery, crumbly texture that pairs wonderfully with the strawberry flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Strawberry extract or freeze-dried strawberry powder
• All-purpose flour
• Pink or red food coloring (optional)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting or glazing, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract, strawberry extract (or powder), and food coloring if desired. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
2. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
3. Shape the cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Decorate: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with a glaze, or leave them plain for a classic look.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 12 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate-dipped: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it harden for an extra layer of flavor.
• Lemon twist: Replace the strawberry extract with lemon extract and add a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy version.
• Jelly-filled: Use two cookies to sandwich strawberry jam for a Linzer-inspired variation.
• Vegan option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the raw dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
• Reheating: These cookies don’t require reheating, but you can enjoy them slightly warmed by placing them in a low oven (300°F) for 3–5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

2. What can I use instead of strawberry extract?

Freeze-dried strawberry powder or even pureed fresh strawberries can work as alternatives.

3. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe if using salted butter.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?

Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing to maintain the proper consistency.

5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for cookies.

6. Can I skip the food coloring?

Absolutely! The cookies will still be delicious, just without the pink or red hue.

7. How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for edges that are just beginning to turn golden; overbaking will make them dry.

8. Can I use other cookie cutter shapes?

Yes! Any shape cutter can be used to suit different occasions.

9. Can I add decorations like sprinkles?

Definitely! Add sprinkles before baking or drizzle icing and sprinkle decorations afterward.

10. What glaze works best?

A simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a hint of strawberry extract is perfect.

Conclusion

Heart-Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies are a wonderful way to show love and care through baking. Whether you’re preparing these for a special someone or simply indulging in a creative kitchen project, they’re sure to delight. Try out the variations, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends!

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