Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to bake something sweet and heartfelt, and these Marbled Valentine Sugar Cookies fit the bill beautifully. Featuring swirls of pink and white icing on heart-shaped cookies, they create an eye-catching and festive treat. These cookies are not only delicious but also make a wonderful homemade gift for your loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a special someone, friends, or family, these cookies will bring a cheerful touch to your Valentine’s Day celebration.
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookies:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink gel food coloring
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Roll and Cut: Preheat the 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. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just set but not browned. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Marbled Icing: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Divide the icing into two bowls; leave one white and tint the other with pink food coloring.
Create the Marble Effect: Drop small amounts of pink and white icing onto a plate. Use a toothpick or skewer to lightly swirl the colors together. Dip each cooled cookie into the icing, letting the excess drip off. Place the cookies on a wire rack and add sprinkles if desired.
Set and Serve: Allow the icing to set completely before serving or storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Chilling is key! Refrigerating the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Use gel food coloring for a vibrant pink hue without altering the icing consistency.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Dip, don’t swirl the cookies in the icing to maintain the marbled look.
Let the icing dry fully before stacking to prevent smudging.
These Marbled Valentine Sugar Cookies are a delightful and easy way to celebrate the season of love. Their beautiful swirls and festive appearance make them a standout addition to any Valentine’s Day spread. Whether gifted in a decorative box or served alongside other sweet treats, these cookies are sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing these adorable heart-shaped delights with those who mean the most to you!