Nothing says “I love you” quite like homemade cookies, and these Buttercream-Filled Red and White Valentine Linzer Cookies are the perfect way to express your love. With their delicate, buttery texture and a smooth, sweet buttercream filling, these heart-shaped treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. Their festive red and white icing makes them a delightful addition to any Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or just indulging in some festive fun, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Red and white icing for decoration
For the Buttercream Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Red food coloring (optional, for a pink tint)
Instructions
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until the dough forms.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cut and Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter, cutting a smaller heart from the center of half of the cookies.
Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cookies cool completely before filling.
3. Prepare the Buttercream Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. Add more cream as needed for desired consistency.
For a pink filling, add a drop of red food coloring and mix until evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
Spread or pipe buttercream onto the bottom halves of the whole cookies.
Place the cut-out cookies on top, gently pressing down to sandwich them together.
Decorate the tops with red and white icing for a festive Valentine’s look.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Chill the dough: This prevents spreading and ensures crisp, well-defined shapes.
Use a piping bag for icing: It allows for more precise and elegant designs.
Don’t overbake: Linzer cookies should be slightly golden on the edges but still soft.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding a hint of citrus zest or cinnamon to the dough for a unique twist.
These Buttercream-Filled Red and White Valentine Linzer Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Their charming heart shapes and luscious buttercream filling make them the ultimate Valentine’s Day delight. Bake a batch to share with your loved ones and spread the sweetness this Valentine’s Day!