Be sure and check out my cookie tutorial “Flying Hearts!”  You’ll find a step by step lesson on how to create beautiful cookies for Valentines Day.

With just over 3 weeks to Valentines Day, now is the time to make and freeze your cookie dough.  You can even bake and freeze un-iced cookies.  This do-a-head will make cookie decorating day go so much faster.

Happy Baking!

Cathy

To get started you will need:

• Baked and cooled sugar cookies in any heart shape.
• 2 colors of medium thin royal icing

Step 1: Outline cookie with white royal icing. Flood in outline with the same icing. Completely fill in the cookie.

"Flying Hearts" Cookie Decorating Tutorial - Step 1

Step 2: Working quickly, add 7 or 8 evenly spaced small dots of a contrasting color to the just iced cookie.

"Flying Hearts" Cookie Decorating Tutorial - Step 2

Step 3: Immediately take a toothpick and drag it through the small dots while the icings are still very wet.  This should be done in one slow motion.  Do not pick up the toothpick until you are finish with the last dot. You will have created “flying hearts”.  Let cookie completely dry.

"Flying Hearts" Cookie Decorating Tutorial - Step 3

Step 4: Add small dots of white to the outside edges, starting at the top of the heart and working way your down one side.

"Flying Hearts" Cookie Decorating Tutorial - Step 4

Step 5: Finish working your way down the other side. Let dry for about 2 hours. 

"Flying Hearts" Cookie Decorating Tutorial - Step 5

Alternatively, you can run a small outline around the outside of the cookie and sprinkle with  sanding sugar. 

You’re done! Package cookies in clear cellophane bags and tie with a beautiful ribbon for gift giving to your favorite Valentine!

Happy Baking!

Cathy

Bonus Tip: This same technique may be used for creamy soups or dips.  Just use a contrasting liquid.  (Sour cream works well in soups.)