Valentine Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Who doesn’t love a good shortbread cookie? They’re buttery and crumbly and just melt in your mouth. This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved ones to something special with this recipe for Valentine Shortbread Cookies.

These cookies are made with pecans, which add a delicious crunch, and they’re shaped into hearts for the perfect Valentine’s Day treat. And the best part? They’re super easy to make!

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Are shortbread cookies healthy?

Shortbread cookies are a classic holiday treat, but you may be wondering whether they are actually good for you or not.

The answer is – it depends. Hah!

On the plus side, shortbread cookies are made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter. This means that they don’t have any of the added fats, chemicals, or preservatives that can be found in other types of cookies.

However, shortbread cookies (like any treat or dessert) are also relatively high in calories and sugar. So it’s important to enjoy them in moderation.

If you’re looking for ways to make shortbread cookies a bit healthier, consider making yours with whole wheat pastry flour, use coconut oil instead of butter and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

You can even use Xylitol instead of other sweeteners to eliminate the sugar calories almost completely!

How do I make gluten free shortbread cookies?

Traditional shortbread cookies are made with pastry flour, but it’s easy to make a gluten-free version by substituting a 1-for-1 gluten-free pastry flour instead.

The key to successful gluten-free shortbread is to use a light hand when mixing the ingredients. Over-mixing can result in a tough cookie, so it’s important to stop as soon as the dough comes together.

How long do shortbread cookies last?

Most people agree that shortbread cookies are best when they’re fresh. The crisp, buttery texture is hard to resist, and store-bought cookies can often be disappointingly stale.

However, if you find yourself with a surplus of shortbread cookies, there’s no need to worry. Properly stored, these cookies can be enjoyed for weeks or even months after you bake them.

How to store shortbread cookies

Shortbread cookies are a holiday favorite, but they can be tricky to store. If they are not stored properly, they can become dry and crumbly.

The key to storing shortbread cookies is to keep them in an airtight container. This will help to keep them fresh and moist. For the best results, wrap the cookies individually in wax paper or cellophane. Then, place them in a container with a tight-fitting lid.

Be sure to label the container with the date so that you can enjoy them at their freshest.

A good rule of thumb is to enjoy shortbread cookies kept at room temperature in an airtight container within 1 week. If you keep them in the refrigerator, they should be good for about 10 days.

Can you freeze shortbread cookies?

Yes, you can freeze shortbread cookies! In fact, freezing shortbread is a great way to extend its enjoyable life.

Place cookies in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, just remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.

Shortbread freezes particularly well, EXCEPT if they have been frosted or iced. Cookies with icing or frosting do not freeze particularly well, so it’s best to add your decorative topping just before serving or gift giving.

Can dogs eat shortbread cookies?

Dog owners have always been advised to be careful about what they feed their furry friends. But when it comes to holiday treats, it can be hard to resist sharing a few of your favorite cookies with your pup.

So, can dogs eat shortbread cookies? While shortbread is not poisonous to dogs, it is not the best treat for them either.

Shortbread is high in fat and sugar, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. In addition, the dough used to make shortbread cookies can contain ingredients that are dangerous for dogs, such as raisins, chocolate, and nuts.

For these reasons, it’s best to stick to dog-safe treats this holiday season. Why not make some homemade dog treats instead?

More Valentine Treats and Recipes to Try

• Make Valentine Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows for Your Sweetheart
• Have a Cavity Free Valentine’s With These 21 Non-Candy Valentine Ideas
• DIY You’re a Cutie Candyless Valentine’s Day Treat
• Free Printable Kiss Chocolate Valentines

Heart Shaped Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

2 and ¼ cups pastry flour
1 cup room temperature butter
¾ teaspoon quality salt
1/3 cup chopped pecans
½ cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup white sugar

heart shaped cookie cutters

*optional baker’s twine for presentation

Instructions

Cream together the butter, sugar and maple syrup until smooth.

Slowly mix in the flour and salt until just combined then add the chopped pecans.

Cover and chill for about 10 minutes.

Roll out on parchment paper to just over ¼ inch thick.

Place in the freezer for 10 minutes or the refrigerator for about an hour.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and pull out your favorite heart shaped cookie cutters.

Of course you don’t have to make heart shaped shortbread cookies, you can make them whatever shape you like!

The chilled dough should cut through perfectly giving you really clear lines and edges.

Tip: Use two sizes if you want to stack and tie up all pretty like I’ve done.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes-depending on the size and thickness of the cookies.

Keep an eye on them and pull before they start to brown to ensure they aren’t too dry.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

Stack and use Baker’s Twine to tie together. 

PS – These freeze wonderfully!