Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies! They’re simply delightful, with a buttery texture that just melts in your mouth and a sweet, fruity jam center that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. I mean, who wouldn’t want to serve these little beauties at a party, a romantic dinner, or even just as a special treat for yourself? They’re perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any day you want to spread a little love. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! Trust me, once you take a bite of these heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies, you’ll be hooked. So, let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!
Ingredients for Heart Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Alright, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need to make these adorable heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure your butter is nice and soft so it creams beautifully with the sugar.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – This will give our cookies that perfect sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the strawberry jam perfectly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of our cookies, giving them structure and that classic shortbread feel.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness!
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam – This is the star of the show, so choose your favorite jam for a fruity burst in the center!
With these simple yet delightful ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking some love-filled cookies!
How to Prepare Heart Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Alright, let’s get our hands doughy and start making these delicious heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of lovely cookies in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because we want those cookies to bake up perfectly golden and delicious!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. I usually mix it with a hand mixer for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. You want it to look smooth and inviting!
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Now, it’s time to add that lovely vanilla extract. Mix it in thoroughly so the flavor spreads evenly throughout the butter-sugar mixture. Trust me, this step is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Mix in Flour and Salt
Next, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your mixture. I like to do this in batches to avoid a flour explosion! Mix until a dough forms. It should be soft and a little sticky but hold together nicely.
Step 5: Roll and Cut Out Cookies
Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Grab your favorite heart-shaped cookie cutter and start cutting out those adorable shapes. Don’t be shy—make a few extra for snacking!
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the heart-shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup! Now, make a small indentation in the center of each cookie with your thumb or the back of a spoon. This is where the strawberry jam will go!
Step 7: Fill with Strawberry Jam
Here’s the fun part! Fill each indentation with strawberry jam. Be generous, but don’t overfill it—just a dollop will do! This jammy center is what makes these cookies so delightful.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Now, pop those cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Once they’re done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time is the hardest part, but oh-so-worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavor, love, and simplicity! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing (or keeping all to yourself) these delightful cookies:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just because, these cookies bring a smile to any gathering.
- Flavorful Delight: The buttery shortbread combined with sweet strawberry jam creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the strawberry jam for your favorite flavor—raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd would work beautifully!
- Fun to Make: Get the kids involved or host a cookie decorating party. Everyone loves heart-shaped cookies!
- Great for Gifting: They’re perfect for wrapping up as a sweet gift for friends, family, or that special someone.
Trust me, once you bake these heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire! You’ll find every excuse to make them again and again.
Tips for Success with Heart Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
To ensure your heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips to share! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make your baking experience even sweeter:
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft or sticky when rolling it out, pop it in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes. Chilling helps the butter firm up, making it easier to cut those lovely shapes!
- Use a Light Touch: When rolling out the dough, use a gentle hand to avoid overworking it. This keeps the cookies tender and flaky, just like a good shortbread should be.
- Don’t Overfill the Jam: When you’re filling the indentations with strawberry jam, leave a little space at the edges. The jam can bubble up while baking, and nobody wants a jam mess on their hands!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them to be beautifully golden around the edges, but not too dark!
- Let Them Cool Completely: I know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but let those cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes for a better texture when you take that first bite.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different jams or even add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the dough for a little twist. Baking is all about creativity, so have fun with it!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies that not only look adorable but taste heavenly too. Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their lovely texture and flavor for up to a week. If you’re like me and love to bake ahead, you can also freeze these cookies! Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. No need to reheat them—they’re perfect served as is, but if you prefer them warm, you can pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for just a few minutes. This will soften them up and make that strawberry jam all gooey and delightful again. Yum!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional information provided for these heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I strive to give you the most accurate details, it’s always best to check the labels of your ingredients for precise information. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful treats without worrying too much about the numbers!
FAQ About Heart Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Got questions about these delightful heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best answers:
Can I use a different type of jam?
Absolutely! While strawberry jam is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for your favorite flavor. Raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd can give your cookies a unique twist. Get creative!
How long can I store these cookies?
If kept in an airtight container, your heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies will stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. They’re perfect for snacking throughout the week!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
These cookies are lovely on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They make a charming addition to any dessert platter, too!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for up to three days before rolling and baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out!
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread too much while baking, it might be due to the butter being too soft. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If your dough feels too soft, chilling it for a bit before rolling out can also help!
There you go! With these FAQs answered, you’re all set to bake, share, and enjoy these heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies. Happy baking!
Print
Heart Shaped Strawberry Shortbread Cookies: 8 Sweet Steps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious heart-shaped strawberry shortbread cookies perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indentation with strawberry jam.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- You can substitute other jams if desired.
- For a sweeter cookie, increase the powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: heart shaped strawberry shortbread cookies
