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Freshly baked Slice and Bake Valentine's Day Cookies on a plate.

Slice and Bake Valentine's Day Cookies

These festive slice and bake cookies are perfect for celebrating Valentine's Day with minimal effort. Prepare the dough in advance, then simply slice and bake for a sweet treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • whisk
  • plastic wrap
  • baking sheets
  • parchment paper
  • wire rack

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • red food coloring optional

For Decorating

  • sprinkles Valentine's themed

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough

  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Divide the dough in half; if desired, knead red food coloring into one half until evenly colored.

Form and Chill

  • Shape each dough half into a log, about 1.5 inches in diameter, then roll in sprinkles if desired to coat the outside.
  • Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Slice and Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Slice the chilled dough logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, then cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best results, ensure your butter is truly softened for easy creaming. The dough logs can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw slightly before slicing and baking.