Name: Heart Cutout Cookies with Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 54 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter, softened at room temperature (2 sticks, 16 tbsp, or 226 grams); Zest of 2 large lemons; 1 cup granulated sugar (210 grams); 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (220 grams); 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 4 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (617.5 grams); 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 6 tbsp salted butter, softened at room temperature (85 grams); 2 cups + 3 tbsp powdered sugar (251 grams); 1-2 tbsp milk, as needed (15 to 30 grams); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 4 ounces cream cheese, cold from the fridge (113 grams); 2-3 tbsp raspberry preserves, strained (seeds removed); One 1.25 ounce bag freeze-dried raspberries, divided; Red food coloring, as desired

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 27 reviews

There is something utterly heartwarming about sharing sweet treats that showcase a perfect balance of tender texture and bright, tangy flavor. The Heart Cutout Cookies with Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe effortlessly blends buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a luscious, fruity frosting that makes every bite a celebration of flavor and love. Whether you’re planning a cozy afternoon tea or a special occasion, these cookies will not only delight your taste buds but also add a splash of charm to your dessert table, making them an instant favorite for all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a single thick layer of smooth, pale yellow dough with a slightly crumbly texture. At the right side of the bowl, a pink spatula with cartoon dog and heart designs leans against the dough. In the background, there is a blurred yellow lemon and a glass jar filled with red raspberries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Preparing these cookies is straightforward thanks to a concise list of ingredients, each chosen to bring out the best in taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the zesty lemons that brighten every bite to the creamy richness of the frosting, you’ll love how these simple essentials come together magically.

Salted butter (1 cup plus 6 tbsp): Provides a rich, creamy base essential for tender cookies and smooth frosting.
Lemon zest of 2 large lemons: Adds fresh citrus aroma that complements the raspberry beautifully.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Gives sweetness and helps create that perfect cookie texture.
Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Enhances moisture and depth with subtle caramel notes.
Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and add richness for soft, chewy cookies.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp total): Boosts overall flavor and balances tartness.
Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp): Intensifies lemon flavor in dough and frosting, keeping it bright and fresh.
All-purpose flour (4 and 3/4 cups): The structure of the cookies, making sure they hold their shape perfectly.
Baking soda (1 tsp): A leavening agent to lighten the texture just right.
Salt (1/2 tsp plus a pinch): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Powdered sugar (2 cups + 3 tbsp): Sifts sweetness smoothly into the frosting.
Milk (1-2 tbsp as needed): Helps achieve a creamy frosting consistency.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, cold): Adds tanginess and creamy texture to the frosting.
Raspberry preserves (2-3 tbsp, strained): Imparts vibrant raspberry flavor without seeds for a silky finish.
Freeze-dried raspberries (one 1.25 oz bag, divided): Used as a natural color enhancer and garnish, plus extra berry punch.
Red food coloring (optional): Creates a richer hue for a visual pop.

How to Make Heart Cutout Cookies with Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Foundations

Start by zesting your lemons and rubbing the zest into the granulated sugar with clean hands until it feels like wet sand. This simple trick infuses the sugar with vibrant lemon oils that carry through every bite. Next, finely pulse the freeze-dried raspberries in a food processor until you have a powder—this will add a striking, natural sparkle both in the frosting and as a garnish.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then add both the lemon-zested granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat these together until the mixture looks fluffy and light—this aeration is key to tender cookies. Incorporate the eggs, vanilla, and lemon juice next, mixing just until blended. Slowly add your dry ingredients and mix until no flour remains, but be careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can make cookies tough, and we want soft, tender hearts!

Step 3: Roll, Chill, and Cut

Divide dough in half and roll each portion between parchment paper to a thickness between 3/8 and 1/2 inch. Keeping the dough sandwiched in parchment prevents sticking and the need for extra flour, which can toughen the dough. Chill these sheets on baking trays either in the fridge (1-2 hours) or freezer (about 30 minutes) until firm. Once chilled, cut out your heart shapes carefully with cookie cutters, ensuring clean edges.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange 6 cookies evenly on each sheet and bake for 8-11 minutes until just set. A perfectly baked cookie is lightly golden on the edges and soft in the middle. Let the cookies rest on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely; this helps them set without breaking.

Step 5: Whip Up the Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cookies cool, make the dreamy frosting. Beat the softened butter with powdered sugar, adding milk gradually to reach perfect spreading consistency. Mix in salt, vanilla, and lemon juice for balanced brightness. Then, add cold cream cheese to avoid a runny frosting and beat until smooth. Stir in your strained raspberry preserves and part of the freeze-dried raspberry powder to create a gorgeous, soft pink frosting. Split the frosting into thirds to vary color intensities with additional raspberry powder and optional red food coloring for a fun ombré effect.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Use an offset spatula to delicately spread the frosting onto cooled cookies, making sure not to disturb their tender texture. Finish with a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberry powder for a rustic, elegant look or try sprinkles for a playful touch. The beautiful contrast of lemon and raspberry shines in every decorated heart cookie.

How to Serve Heart Cutout Cookies with Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A stack of four light brown cookies with a soft, slightly crumbly texture is shown, each cookie topped with a thick layer of purple-pink frosting that has a smooth but lightly textured surface. A bite is taken out of the top cookie, revealing the cookie's airy inside. Around the stack, more cookies with the same frosting spread evenly on top are scattered, resting on a white marbled surface. A few lemon slices and raspberries are also placed around the cookies, adding hints of yellow and deep red colors to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add extra charm by topping your frosted cookies with crushed freeze-dried raspberries or edible rose petals for a delicate floral touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also evoke a soft, snowy effect perfect for gifting or special occasions.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside your favorite afternoon tea blends like Earl Grey or chamomile for a soothing balance. Fresh berries or a small bowl of whipped cream make delightful accompaniments that highlight the raspberry and lemon flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your cookies in pastel-colored gift boxes lined with tissue paper or arrange them on a tiered stand for a festive display at parties. Tie each cookie with a little ribbon if giving them as thoughtful, homemade gifts that speak of love and care.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days, ensuring they remain soft and fresh. Once frosted, store the cookies in the fridge within a sealed container to keep the frosting stable and delicious for the same amount of time.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked cutout cookie dough separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen for convenience. The frosting also freezes well if stored tightly covered. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before using.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cookies; they’re best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate the creamy frosting and tender crumb. If you prefer a warm cookie, a gentle 10-second zap in the microwave works, but do so cautiously.

FAQs

Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone in this recipe?

Yes, mascarpone can be used for a milder, less tangy frosting. The texture remains creamy, but the flavor will be a bit richer and less sharp than traditional cream cheese.

Do I have to strain the raspberry preserves?

Straining removes seeds for a smooth frosting, but if you like a bit of texture, you can skip this step. Just be aware that the seeds might add some crunch and change the look slightly.

How thick should I roll out the cookie dough?

Roll your dough between 3/8 and 1/2 inch thick to ensure the cookies have a tender, yet sturdy texture perfect for holding frosting without crumbling.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of freeze-dried?

Freeze-dried raspberries are preferred here to add concentrated color and flavor without extra moisture. Fresh or frozen berries in the frosting might thin it out or alter the texture.

What if I don’t have lemon zest? Can I use lemon extract instead?

Lemon zest adds natural oils that brighten the flavor, which lemon extract can’t fully replicate. If you must, use a small amount of lemon extract, but the frosting and cookie flavor might be less vibrant.

Final Thoughts

Making the Heart Cutout Cookies with Raspberry Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is like crafting little edible hugs filled with bright, summery joy. They are charming to look at, delightful to eat, and sure to become a go-to recipe for holidays, celebrations, or anytime you want to share a bit of sweetness. I can’t wait for you to try them and watch how everyone’s faces light up with every lovely bite.