Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates the base for a tender cookie.1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, 1½ cups granulated sugar
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening and seasoning.2¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough will be soft.
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm enough to handle. Chilling makes the dough easier to roll and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite Valentine's Day cookie cutters (hearts, lips, arrows, etc.) to cut out shapes. Re-roll scraps as needed.
- Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Immediately, while the dough is still soft, gently press the tops of the cookies into your Valentine's Day colored sanding sugar or sprinkles. This is the easiest way to get a good coating.Valentine's Day colored sanding sugar or sprinkles
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. Baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your cookies.
- Let the Valentine Sugar Wafer Cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
- Once completely cool, you can further decorate your Valentine Sugar Wafer Cookies with royal icing for intricate designs or simple swirls.Royal icing
Notes
Properly stored, these Valentine Sugar Wafer Cookies will maintain their crispness for up to a week. They are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature, layered between parchment paper to prevent sticking and to absorb any moisture. Avoid storing them with very moist baked goods, as this can make them soggy. If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze the baked and completely cooled cookies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bring them to room temperature. If they seem a little soft after thawing, you can briefly place them in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) for a few minutes to re-crisp them.