A Valentine's Story.

  I have a Valentine's story for you.

The other day, I received a Valentine card from a lovely neighbor.

She'd sent the above card with the cookies on it,

noting she "couldn't resist" sending it to me.

And she is a recipient of my Christmas Booty.

What a sweet, wonderful gesture.

So naturally, I had to return the sentiment.

I'm making Lemon Shortbread Hearts

with a Meringue Glaze and Piping.

Lemon Shortbread Cookies

2 sticks unsalted butter, room temp

1/2 cup superfine sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

rind of one lemon

2 cups flour

 Heat oven to 350°.
Line two baking sheets with parchment.

In a processor,

 grind regular white sugar on high until pulverized.

Peel the lemon rind and chop it into small pieces.

Process until very fine, almost powdery.

If there are large chunks,

the cookies will not hold together when rolled out.
 Beat the softened butter in a stand mixer
with the paddle attachment on medium high, until smooth.
Gradually add sugar, then vanilla and lemon.
mixing until light in color and texture, about 3 minutes.
Add flour and salt in thirds.
Mix until dough comes together and cleans the sides of the bowl.
Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface.
Knead a bit until it's a smooth ball.

Roll out to about 1/4-inch thick.
Cut out with cookie cutters.
Place hearts on prepared baking sheets.
Bake about 14 minutes, or until light golden.
Cool on rack.

Beau's ready to roam the hood.

  

 

Royal Icing
1 1/2 TB meringue powder
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
1/2 pound powdered sugar
1 1/2 ounces lemon juice
(plus a little more to thin out icing when decorating)

Mix all together.
Add food coloring.
Decorate with sprinkles and dragées.

 Beau is happy in his "spot."

 I believe he's winking at me.

 Decorate the cookies!

 

 

 

 

Happy Valentine's Day!