Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to show love and appreciation through sweet treats, and what could be more delightful than homemade sugar cookies adorned with a beautiful royal icing? These cookies are not just a feast for the eyes; they also pack a burst of flavor with every bite. Decorated with vibrant colors, they make the ideal gift for loved ones or a fun project to enjoy with family. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on creating these charming heart-shaped delights!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup vegan butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon plant-based milk
Royal Icing Ingredients:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon aquafaba (chickpea brine)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Food coloring (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and plant-based milk to the buttery mixture, stirring until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step ensures your cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) as you wait for the dough to chill.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thick, enjoying the satisfying sound of the rolling pin.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out heart shapes or any design you desire, placing them gently on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the aroma of fresh cookies fills the air. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the royal icing, whisk the aquafaba and lemon juice together in a bowl, then slowly add the powdered sugar while mixing until you achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
- If desired, divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to create a vibrant array of shades.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with the royal icing using piping bags, letting your creativity shine. Allow the icing to set completely before serving or packaging them up as gifts.
Notes or Tips
- Chill the dough for longer if your kitchen is warm; this helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Experiment with different shapes and colors to celebrate the love season.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Cooking Techniques
When baking sugar cookies, it’s key to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. The creaming method, where you beat the butter and sugar together, creates a light texture essential for these cookies. Rolling the dough to an even thickness helps ensure even baking, so keep an eye on your work area. Lastly, let your royal icing sit for a few minutes before using to achieve a better flow while decorating.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it’s one that measures cup-for-cup.
How can I make the royal icing harder?
For a stiffer consistency, add more powdered sugar to the icing until you reach your desired thickness.
Conclusion
These Valentine’s Day sugar cookies with royal icing are not only scrumptious but also a canvas for your creativity! Whether you’re sharing them with friends, family, or that special someone, each bite radiates love. So gather your ingredients, and let’s create some lasting memories in the kitchen this Valentine’s Day!