Love Letter Butter Cookies: Sweet, Simple, and Adorable

These Love Letter Butter Cookies are as delightful to eat as they are charming to look at. With just a handful of ingredients and a little creativity, you can craft these adorable cookies that resemble love letters. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any occasion where you want to spread a little love, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who sees them. If you’re looking for more elegant treats, check out my Panna Cotta with Raspberry Gelee or dive into the buttery bliss of a Homemade Apple Pie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Simple Ingredients: All-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salted butter make this recipe pantry-friendly.
• Beginner-Friendly: No complicated techniques required—just mix, bake, and decorate!
• Customizable: Adjust the glaze flavor and cookie size to match your creativity or event.

Taste & Texture

• Buttery, delicate, and slightly crisp.
• The glaze adds a smooth, sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the rich cookie base.

Dietary Attributes

• Naturally nut-free and easy to adapt for other dietary needs.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

Cookies

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ sticks salted butter, room temperature

Glaze

• 3 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 4 ½ tablespoons milk (more as needed)
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract (or flavor of choice)

Notes on Quality

• Butter: High-quality salted butter enhances flavor. If you use unsalted, add a pinch of salt to the dough.
• Flour: Sift for a smoother dough.
• Extracts: Use clear vanilla for a pure white glaze.

Possible Substitutions

• Milk: Plant-based milk like almond or oat works well for dairy-free glaze.
• Glaze Flavor: Experiment with almond, orange, or peppermint extract.
• Coloring: Gel food coloring is best for vibrant hues without thinning the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Mix

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix butter, flour, and powdered sugar until the dough is smooth and pliable.

2. Roll and Cut

1. Flour your countertop lightly, then roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
2. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut small squares.

this Recipe

1. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for 14–16 minutes until edges begin to golden. Let them cool completely on the tray.

4. Make the Glaze

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and extract in a bowl. Adjust with more milk if needed; the glaze should be thick yet pourable.

5. Decorate

1. Fill a piping bag with glaze and pipe a square outline on each cookie. Fill the center, then smooth with a toothpick.
2. Let the glaze set before piping a second outline to create the envelope shape.
3. Color a small amount of glaze red or pink and pipe tiny hearts to “seal” each envelope.

6. Set and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to dry completely before serving or packaging.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Test First: Pipe a small amount of glaze to check its consistency before decorating all the cookies.
• Chill Dough: If it gets too soft, refrigerate for 10 minutes before rolling.

Common Mistakes

• Cracking Dough: If this happens, let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes.
• Runny Glaze: Add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time to thicken.

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the dough ahead and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• These cookies pair perfectly with tea, hot cocoa, or coffee.
• For an elegant touch, serve alongside Double Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Presentation Ideas

• Package cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons for gifting.
• Arrange them on a heart-shaped platter for extra charm.

Beverage Pairings

• Chamomile or Earl Grey tea.
• Sparkling lemonade for a refreshing option.
• A light rosé or Moscato for celebratory occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months and decorate after thawing.

Reheating Methods

• These cookies don’t require reheating, but if stored in a cold room, bring them to room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I use unsalted butter?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of salt to balance flavors.

Troubleshooting

Q: Why is my glaze too thin?
A: Add powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time to thicken.

Q: Why are my cookies too soft?
A: Ensure they bake until the edges are just golden. Cooling on the tray helps them firm up.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Make the glaze dairy-free by using almond or oat milk.

Flavor Twists

• Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy flavor profile.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decadence.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Use holly berries for Christmas or pastel shades for Easter.

Conclusion

These Love Letter Butter Cookies are a delightful way to share love and sweetness. With their buttery flavor, delicate glaze, and adorable design, they’re perfect for gifting, holidays, or simply treating yourself. Try them alongside my Panna Cotta with Raspberry Gelee or the indulgent Double Chocolate Chip Cookies.

I’d love to see your creations! Share your cookie photos or tips in the comments, and don’t forget to follow along on Pinterest for more sweet inspiration. Happy baking!

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