Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies are a sweet and simple way to show a little love—whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just because. These classic cookies are made with buttery dough, plenty of chocolate chips, and cut into cute heart shapes that make every bite feel extra special. I love how fun they are to bake and how easy they are to decorate or gift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes the warm, gooey goodness of chocolate chip cookies and turns it into something playful and festive. The dough holds its shape nicely when rolled and cut, so the hearts come out clean and crisp around the edges. Whether I’m baking for friends, family, or just for myself, these cookies are always a hit. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with melty chocolate—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Unsalted butter (softened)
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Brown sugar
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Granulated sugar
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Eggs
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Vanilla extract
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All-purpose flour
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Baking soda
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Salt
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Chocolate chips or chunks
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Optional: heart-shaped cookie cutter, sprinkles, melted chocolate for drizzling
Directions
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I cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
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I mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, I whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then, I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
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I stir in the chocolate chips and chill the dough for 30 minutes to help it hold its shape.
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I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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I roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
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I place the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just golden.
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I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.
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Optional: I decorate with sprinkles, drizzle with melted chocolate, or leave them simple.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 cookies, depending on the size of the cutter. It takes around 45 minutes total—15 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for chilling, and 8–10 minutes to bake.
Variations
Sometimes I use white chocolate chips, mini chips, or mix in colorful candy-coated chocolates. I’ve also made a chocolate version by swapping out a bit of flour for cocoa powder. For extra flair, I dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and add sprinkles.
Storage/reheating
I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—either the dough or the baked cookies. If frozen, I let them thaw at room temp or warm them for a few seconds in the microwave to bring back that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. I often chill the dough overnight, and it actually helps the flavor develop even more. I just let it sit out for a few minutes before rolling.
Do I need to chill the dough?
I recommend it. It makes the dough easier to roll and helps the cookies keep their heart shape while baking.
Can I use a different shape cutter?
Of course. I use hearts for special occasions, but any shape works—stars, circles, or whatever I have on hand.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
I bake them until just golden on the edges, then let them finish setting as they cool. I also store them with a slice of bread in the container to keep them soft longer.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and the results are still chewy and delicious.
Conclusion
Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of charm and comfort. They’re classic in flavor, cute in shape, and fun to make for any occasion. Whether I’m sharing them with someone I love or just enjoying a cozy baking day, these cookies always bring smiles and warm, melty bites of happiness.
