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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the **butter** and **powdered sugar** together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the **vanilla extract** and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the **flour** and **salt** to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. You may need to knead the dough a little by hand to get it fully combined.
### **Step 2: Roll Out the Dough**
1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about **¼ inch** thick.
2. Using a small heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out mini cookies from the dough. Feel free to make different sizes of hearts, or use a variety of shapes for variety.
3. Place the cut-out cookies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about **1 inch apart**.
### **Step 3: Bake the Cookies**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Bake the cookies for about **10-12 minutes**, or until they are just beginning to turn golden around the edges. The cookies should remain light in color, as shortbread cookies are meant to have a delicate appearance.
3. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before decorating.
### **Step 4: Decorate the Cookies (Optional)**
1. Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them with **royal icing**, **melted chocolate**, or a dusting of **colored sugar** for a festive touch.
2. For royal icing: Pipe the icing onto the cookies in fun patterns, such as outlining the edges or creating little hearts and swirls.
3. For a simple touch: Sprinkle **colored sugar** or **sugar crystals** over the top of the cookies while they’re still slightly tacky from baking.
4. Allow the icing or chocolate to set completely before serving or packaging.
## **Serving Suggestions**
– **Valentine’s Day Parties**: Serve these mini shortbread cookies on a platter at a Valentine’s Day party, or pack them in cute treat bags for party favors.
– **Gift Boxes**: Arrange the cookies in a box lined with tissue paper for a charming homemade gift.
– **Tea Time**: Pair with a cup of tea or hot cocoa for a cozy, sweet afternoon treat.
## **Storage & Tips**
– **Storage**: Store the decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to **1 week**. If not decorated, you can store the plain cookies for up to **10 days**.
– **Freezing**: If you want to make the cookies ahead of time, freeze the undecorated cookies in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and store for up to **2 months**.
– **Rolling Tip**: To prevent the dough from sticking while rolling, place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and less messy.
## **Customizations & Variations**
✨ **Flavor Twist** – Add **lemon zest**, **almond extract**, or a dash of **cinnamon** for a different flavor.
✨ **Add Sprinkles** – Roll the edges of the cookies in heart-shaped or themed **sprinkles** for extra decoration.
✨ **Chocolate Dip** – For a more decadent treat, dip half of each cookie in **melted chocolate** and let it harden before serving.
✨ **Gluten-Free** – Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free and just as delicious.
**Mini Valentine Shortbread Cookies** are the perfect way to spread love this Valentine’s Day. With their simple, buttery flavor and festive decorations, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who gets to enjoy them. Whether you’re baking them for a loved one or treating yourself, these cookies will make your day a little sweeter.
Would you like more Valentine’s Day baking ideas or tips for other occasions? 😊
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