Popes Valentine Cookies

These sweet treats are sure to spread love and joy, just like the Pope’s Valentine’s Day gifts to his devotees.

Soft, chewy, and oh-so-delicious, these cookies are packed with chocolate chips, walnuts, and a hint of vanilla, making them the perfect token of affection for your loved ones.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts, if using.

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

Make sure to use room temperature butter for the best results – it’ll help the dough come together smoothly.

If you’re using walnuts, be gentle when stirring them in so you don’t crush them.

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – 2 inches of space between each cookie is essential for even baking.

If you want a chewier cookie, bake for 12 minutes, and if you prefer a crisper one, go for 14 minutes.

Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as all ovens are different.

Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles – it’ll help the decorations stick better.

Nutrional Value