Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

Remember those slice and bake cookies from your childhood that came in a tube? These homemade slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies are surprisingly easy to make, taste better than the original, and are free from preservatives and artificial coloring. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, these heart-shaped treats will add a sweet touch to your celebrations and can be made for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Fun for All Ages: Get the kids involved in rolling, cutting, and decorating these delightful heart-shaped cookies.
• Customizable Colors: Use natural food coloring to create vibrant pinks or reds, making them visually appealing for any event.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the freezer for quick baking whenever you need a sweet treat.
• Delicious Flavor: The buttery sweetness combined with a hint of vanilla makes each bite irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To make these slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies successful, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Plastic wrap
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Heart cookie cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools ensure even mixing of ingredients, leading to a smooth cookie dough.
• Baking sheets: Proper baking sheets promote even cooking and prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Red or pink food coloring (we used this natural food coloring)

How to Make Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Add butter, sugar, and vanilla extract to a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer). Beat at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in 3-4 batches until the dough comes together. If too wet, add an additional 1-2 tbsp of flour as needed.

Step 3: Color Your Dough

1. Remove about half to two-thirds of the dough and set aside.
2. Add several drops of food coloring to the remaining dough. Mix until combined, adding more coloring as desired.

Step 4: Roll Out Pink Dough

1. Place the pink dough in the freezer for 5 minutes.
2. Roll out into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
3. Return to freezer for another 20 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Cut Out Cookies

1. Use a small heart cookie cutter (roughly 1.5 across) to cut out hearts.
2. Lightly rub water on one floured side before adhering another heart on top; this helps them stick together without overdoing it.

Step 6: Assemble Log

1. Repeat until you have shaped all hearts into a log about 10 inches long.
2. Return log to freezer for at least 30 minutes or until frozen solid.

Step 7: Wrap & Chill

1. Press plain cookie dough around hearts tightly, ensuring no gaps remain.
2. Roll into a smooth log, wrap in plastic wrap, then chill for at least another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350˚F (175˚C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Slice chilled dough into 1/4” rounds; space them about 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
3. Bake for approximately 12 minutes or until bottoms are light golden brown; remove from oven and let cool.

Enjoy your delicious slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies!

How to Serve Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

Slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones. Their charming heart shape makes them an ideal treat for any romantic occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies. Opt for cold or warm milk, depending on your preference.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.

Gift-Wrapped for Loved Ones

• Wrap individual cookies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon. This makes a sweet, personal gift for friends or family.

As Party Favors

• Place one or two cookies in small boxes or bags as party favors at Valentine’s Day gatherings or events.

How to Perfect Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

To achieve the best slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough – Ensure the dough is chilled properly before slicing. This helps maintain the shape of the hearts during baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh butter and eggs for better flavor and texture in your cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately – Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to avoid overly dense cookies.
• Preheat Your Oven – Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350˚F before baking for even cooking.
• Rotate Baking Sheets – For uniform baking, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the cooking time.
• Cool on Wire Racks – Allow cookies to cool on wire racks after baking to prevent sogginess from steam buildup.

Best Side Dishes for Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your slice and bake Valentine’s Day cookies can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – These elegant treats complement your heart-shaped cookies perfectly and add a romantic touch.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the crunch of the cookies.
4. Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped next to your cookies for an indulgent experience.
5. Coffee or Hot Chocolate – A warm drink pairs beautifully with baked goods, enhancing their flavors.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a flavorful side that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Make sure to chill the dough as instructed to maintain shape.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Using Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter will prevent your cookies from becoming fluffy. Always use softened butter for the best results.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Improperly measuring flour can alter the cookie’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or fluff up your flour before scooping and leveling it off.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven thoroughly before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie logs for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies.

Can I use other food coloring?

Yes, you can use any natural food coloring you prefer. Just be mindful of how much you add to achieve your desired color.

How do I customize Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the dough before chilling for added flavor and texture.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to make them vegan-friendly.

How long does it take to prepare Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies?

The total time from prep to baking is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes, including chilling time.

Final Thoughts

These Slice and Bake Valentine’s Day Cookies are not only nostalgic but also versatile. You can customize them with different colors or add-ins based on your preference. Give this delightful recipe a try for your next celebration!