Valentine Sandwich Cookies

why make this recipe

Valentine Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat to share with your loved ones. Their heart shape and delicious flavors make them a sweet gift for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. These cookies are not just treats; they symbolize love and affection, adding a personal touch to your celebrations. Making these cookies can also be a fun activity to do with friends or family, making delightful memories in the kitchen as you bake together.

how to make Valentine Sandwich Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup dutch process cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 tablespoons half and half (or milk)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Combine the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl, and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla, and beat until well incorporated.
3. Whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, beating on the lowest speed. Continue to mix on the lowest setting until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape it into two discs. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.
6. When the dough is chilled, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat and set aside.
7. Take only one portion of dough out of the refrigerator at a time. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to 1/8-1/4 inch thickness.
8. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake the cookies for 9-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies are cooled, prepare the filling. Combine the softened butter, half and half, vanilla, and salt, and beat until combined.
11. Add the powdered sugar slowly until the filling is smooth. It should be slightly stiffer than cupcake frosting. Add pink or red food coloring until the desired color is reached.
12. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip (or a freezer zip-lock bag with the corner snipped off). Pipe the filling onto half of the cookies and top with the remaining cookies to form a cookie sandwich.

how to serve Valentine Sandwich Cookies

Serve these lovely cookies on a nice plate for a sweet dessert after dinner or as a delightful treat for afternoon tea. They are perfect for gatherings or as gifts. You can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra special touch.

how to store Valentine Sandwich Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.

tips to make Valentine Sandwich Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Roll the dough evenly to ensure cookies bake uniformly.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps with shaping and improves the cookies’ texture.
• Adjust the food coloring to get your desired heart-pumping shade.

variation

You can add different flavors to the filling, like almond extract or peppermint extract, for a twist on the classic taste. You could also sprinkle some mini chocolate chips in the filling for added texture!

FAQs

Can I use different cookie shapes?
Yes! While heart shapes are perfect for Valentine’s Day, feel free to use any cookie cutter shapes you like.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cookies. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. Thaw and add the filling before serving.

What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
You can try using a different flavored powder like matcha for a unique spin, though it will change the overall flavor and color of the cookies.

Print