Spicy Valentine Cut-Out Cookies

You will also need a roll of plastic wrap for this recipe. Dough requires at least 1 hour of refrigeration.

Combine flour, spices and baking soda in a medium sized bowl. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer, beat butter briefly. Gradually add brown sugar and then egg. Beat until fluffy. Gradually add flour mixture and stir until combined.

Divide dough into fourths. Place one portion on a piece of plastic wrap (14-18 inches). Top with another piece of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin, roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness, stopping occasionally to lift and replace top piece of plastic wrap so it doesn’t tear. Place the rolled out dough on a tray and refrigerate. Repeat with remaining portions. (You can stack them on the tray if desired.) If not baking the same day, place dough in 2 1/2 gallon plastic bags. Thoroughly chill, at least 1 hour.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 F. Using a cookie cutter, cut dough into hearts (or any other desired shape). Place them on a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving an inch between them. Bake 7-9 minutes or until just beginning to brown slightly (don’t over-bake!). Remove from oven.

Allow cookies to rest on cookie sheet for a minute or two before removing to cooling rack. Frost if desired.