Valentine’s Day sugar cookies

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day sugar cookies that are buttery, soft, and made to impress? Whether you’re baking for your sweetheart, your kids, or planning a cozy Galentine’s party, these heart-shaped treats are the answer. They hold their shape beautifully, taste absolutely dreamy, and are topped with a chocolate dip or drizzle that takes them over the top.

Best of all? This foolproof recipe uses simple pantry staples and lets you customize with colors, sprinkles, and shapes. If you want a dessert that looks professional but is incredibly easy to make, you’re in the right place.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Valentine’s Day – Heart shapes, sprinkles, and chocolate? Yes, please.
• No-Chill Dough – No need to wait hours before rolling out and baking.
• Holds Its Shape – Cookies won’t spread or puff up too much.
• Rich Flavor – Thanks to a butter base and a touch of almond extract.
• Customizable Decoration – Dip, drizzle, or go wild with edible glitter and icing.

These cookies aren’t just adorable—they’re memorable. They strike the perfect balance between crisp edges and soft centers, and you’ll want to make them long after February 14th.

Ingredients Needed Valentine’s Day sugar cookies

These cookies are built for flavor and structure. Below is the full list, broken into two parts: the dough and the chocolate topping.

For the Cookies:

• 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened but still cool – for richness and structure.
• 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar – gives the perfect sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – helps bind and tenderize the dough.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – enhances aroma and depth.
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional) – adds a lovely floral note.
• 4½ cups (572g) all-purpose flour – creates a sturdy but tender bite.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – ensures a slight lift without puffing too much.

For the Chocolate Dip or Drizzle:

• 1 cup (170g) semisweet or white chocolate chips – you can even use ruby chocolate for a romantic twist.
• 2 teaspoons refined coconut oil or vegetable shortening – creates a smooth, glossy finish.
• Food coloring (optional) – especially if using white chocolate for fun pink or red tones.
• Festive sprinkles – hearts, glitter, or sanding sugar for decorating.

🔄 Ingredient swap tip: You can substitute lemon or orange extract for almond if preferred.

How to Make Valentine’s Day sugar cookies

Follow this detailed guide for beautiful sugar cookies that hold their shape and taste as good as they look.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
• Have your cookie cutters, rolling pin, and clean surface ready for action.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes.
• This aeration step helps the cookies rise slightly without becoming cakey.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavoring

• Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla and almond extract (if using) to build the flavor profile.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
• Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring on low until a smooth dough forms.

⚠️ If the dough seems too soft, add an extra tablespoon of flour at a time.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

• Divide the dough in half. Roll out one portion to about ¼-inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
• Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and transfer them to your prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
• Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Chocolate Dip/Drizzle

• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
• Optional: Stir in a drop of food coloring to tint the white chocolate pink or red.
• Dip cookies halfway, or use a spoon to drizzle chocolate over the tops. Place on wax paper and immediately top with sprinkles.

🎯 Let the chocolate set completely before stacking or packaging.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve with: Hot cocoa, coffee, or champagne for a romantic vibe.
• Presentation idea: Wrap a few cookies in cellophane with a red ribbon for a sweet gift or party favor.
• Room temperature storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing option: Freeze baked cookies (without decorations) for up to 2 months. Thaw and decorate before serving.

Helpful Notes

• No Chill Needed! This dough holds its shape without refrigeration, saving you time.
• Avoid overbaking – Remove cookies when edges are just lightly golden for a soft texture.
• Dough too soft? Pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes before rolling.
• Rolling trick: Use rolling pin rings or guides for even thickness.
• Decorating shortcut: Melt candy melts instead of chocolate chips for quicker setting time.

Conclusion Valentine’s Day sugar cookies

These Valentine’s Day sugar cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re edible love letters, made with care and packed with joy. With their buttery base, tender bite, and irresistible decoration, they make the holiday feel extra special.

Whether you’re baking for a date night, school party, or as a homemade gift, these cookies always deliver.
💬 Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment and ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below!
📌 And don’t forget to Pin it on Pinterest or share on Facebook — love is meant to be shared.

What colors or sprinkles did you use? Let us know your cookie creation style in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe. Unsalted butter lets you better control flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for best results.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This could be due to soft butter or skipping the flour measurement. Make sure to roll the dough evenly and don’t overwork it.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! Roll the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling.

How can I color white chocolate for decorating?

Use oil-based food coloring or candy coloring (not water-based) to prevent the chocolate from seizing.