Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. In one portion, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring and mix until the color is uniform. Leave the other portion plain or add a very light tint if desired for contrast.Red or pink food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Wrap each portion of dough in plastic wrap and flatten them into discs. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to roll.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of colored dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Using heart-shaped cookie cutters (or any festive shape you like), cut out cookies. For sandwich cookies, you'll need pairs of identical shapes. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, beat the sifted powdered sugar with the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a spreadable consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.1 cup powdered sugar, sifted, ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened, 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe a generous amount of frosting onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie of the same shape, gently pressing to create a sandwich.
- Decorate your finished Valentine Sandwich Cookies with sprinkles, edible glitter, or small candies if desired.Sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped candies for decorating
Notes
Best enjoyed at room temperature. Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Frosted cookies, store in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze unfrosted cookie halves for longer storage (2-3 months).