Cherry Filled Heart Cookies

Nothing says “I love you” quite like a batch of homemade Cherry Filled Heart Cookies! These delightful treats are perfect for special occasions, such as Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or simply to show someone how much you care. The combination of tender cookie dough and sweet cherry filling creates a delicious flavor that is sure to impress your loved ones. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal parts, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Spoon a small amount of cherry preserves into the center of half of the heart-shaped cookies, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Use the remaining heart-shaped cookies to cover the ones with the cherry filling, pressing the edges gently to seal the cookies.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
12. Serve these Cherry Filled Heart Cookies to your loved ones and watch their faces light up with joy!

These Cherry Filled Heart Cookies are a delightful way to show your loved ones how much you care. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to spread some love, these homemade treats are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy the process of baking these delicious cookies and sharing them with those who mean the most to you.