Pin Adorable heart and star-shaped cookies tied with ribbons, perfect for gifting or festive occasions. These buttery treats are delicately flavored with vanilla and can be decorated as you wish.
These cookies have always made my holidays more special when I give them out as gifts to family and friends.
Ingredients
- Cookie Dough: 250 g all-purpose flour, 125 g unsalted butter softened, 100 g granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- Decoration: 100 g powdered sugar, 2–3 tbsp lemon juice or water, Food coloring (optional), Decorative ribbons (for tying)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2:
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Step 3:
- Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together.
- Step 4:
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 6:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 5 mm thickness.
- Step 7:
- Cut out heart and star shapes using cookie cutters, making a small hole near the top of each for threading ribbon later.
- Step 8:
- Place shapes on the prepared tray. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are just golden.
- Step 9:
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 10:
- For the icing, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice or water to create a smooth, spreadable glaze. Add food coloring if desired.
- Step 11:
- Decorate cookies as desired and allow icing to set.
- Step 12:
- Once completely dry, thread decorative ribbons through the holes and tie into bows.
Pin These cookies always bring joy to family gatherings especially when we share stories while decorating them.
Notes
Pair with tea or sparkling wine for a festive treat. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer or whisk, Rolling pin, Heart and star cookie cutters, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), egg, milk (butter). May contain traces of nuts if processed in shared facilities. Always check ribbon and decoration ingredients for allergens.
Pin These cookies are a delightful treat that brings a festive touch to any occasion. Enjoy decorating and sharing them!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of flour is best for the dough?
All-purpose flour works perfectly, providing the right balance for a tender yet sturdy cookie structure.
- → How can I add different flavors to the cookies?
Try replacing some flour with cocoa powder for chocolate notes or add almond extract for a subtle nutty aroma.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the dough before baking?
Chilling firms the dough, preventing spreading during baking and helping maintain the crisp shapes.
- → How do I achieve vibrant icing colors?
Add food coloring to the powdered sugar and lemon juice glaze before spreading for bright, festive decoration.
- → What is the best way to store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature; they stay fresh and tender for up to one week.
- → Can these treats be paired with beverages?
They pair wonderfully with tea or sparkling wine, enhancing the festive atmosphere.