Valentine’s Sugar Cookies

These Valentine’s sugar cookies are the perfect gluten-free and dairy-free treat for celebrating love and sweetness. Made with gluten-free 1:1 flour and dairy-free butter, they are light, fluffy, and delicious, perfect for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. The sugar cookies are topped with a smooth, creamy almond-vanilla frosting and finished with festive sprinkles, making them a fun and colorful addition to your celebration. Ideal for those with dietary restrictions or anyone craving a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth cookie.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups King Arthur GF 1:1 flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ cup butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• ¾ cup dairy-free butter (softened)
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract (Singing Dog)
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (OliveNation)
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar

Instructions

For the Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition to fully incorporate.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
6. Gradually add half of the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
7. Add the remaining flour and mix again on low until fully combined.
8. Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. (Baking times may vary depending on your oven.)
10. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

For the Frosting:

1. In a stand mixer or large bowl, whip the dairy-free butter on medium-high for 3-4 minutes until fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt, mixing to combine.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, half a cup at a time, mixing on low speed initially, then increase to high and beat for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
4. Once the cookies have cooled, frost them with the prepared icing and add sprinkles before the frosting sets. (For festive Valentine’s sprinkles, I used OliveNation’s Valentine’s mix.)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Valentine’s sugar cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially for Valentine’s Day! Made with gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter, they’re a sweet, light, and fluffy indulgence that everyone can enjoy. The rich vanilla and almond frosting add an extra layer of sweetness, while the sprinkles make them fun and festive. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting them to a loved one, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress!

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Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure they mix smoothly and create a light, fluffy dough.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before scooping to make it easier to form the cookies.
• Check Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges and no longer soft in the center when done.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Flour Substitute: You can substitute the King Arthur GF 1:1 flour with any other gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to use one designed for baking to achieve the best texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is already dairy-free, but if you prefer a different frosting, try using coconut cream for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Add-ins: Try adding citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to the dough for a fresh, zesty twist. You could also add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a fun variation.

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FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Once baked, the cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I make these cookies without almond extract?
Yes! If you prefer not to use almond extract, you can simply use extra vanilla extract or a different flavor extract like lemon or hazelnut.

Can I freeze the decorated cookies?
Yes, you can freeze frosted cookies. Just make sure the frosting has fully set before stacking them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect for Parties: These cookies are great for Valentine’s Day parties, school events, or as a gift for friends and family.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or your favorite tea for a cozy treat.
• Decorate: Add additional decorations like edible glitter, chocolate drizzle, or heart-shaped sprinkles to make them even more festive.