Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in some sweet treats, and what better way to celebrate love than with delightful frosted sugar cookies? These cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with a rich, creamy icing that will make your heart skip a beat. The addition of a hint of almond extract adds a lovely depth of flavor, making these cookies irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special someone or sharing with friends, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The warmth will help these cookies bake to golden perfection.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This will ensure a light and fluffy texture—set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until well combined to create a fragrant batter.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough should be soft and malleable.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into little balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets, leaving space in between.
- Using the bottom of a glass, dipped in sugar, gently flatten each ball. This adds a lovely decorative touch and some sparkle to your cookies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to form a smooth frosting. Feel free to add food coloring for that extra Valentine’s spirit!
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost them with the prepared icing and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if desired.
Notes or Tips
For an extra special touch, you can shape the cookies using heart-shaped cookie cutters before baking. Experiment with different food coloring shades to match your Valentine’s theme. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week — if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the creaming method is key here: make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, which results in the right texture. Flattening the dough balls is not just for looks; it also helps the cookies bake evenly. Remember, each oven can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake for optimal results!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough. Just roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you prefer not to use almond extract, vanilla extract works well as a substitute for a more classic flavor.
Conclusion
These Valentine’s Day frosted sugar cookies are a sweet way to show your love and appreciation. With their tender texture and luscious icing, they’ll make any occasion feel special. Get ready to share the joy with these delightful cookies that are perfect for gifting or just enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Happy baking!