Checkerboard Hearts

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating well to combine.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.

5. Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain and add the cocoa powder to the other half, mixing until well incorporated.

6. Shape each portion of dough into a rectangular block, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

7. Once the dough is chilled, remove from the refrigerator and cut each block into equal-sized rectangular logs.

8. Place one plain log next to one chocolate log and press them together gently. Repeat with the remaining logs to form checkerboard patterns.

9. Wrap the combined logs in plastic wrap and chill for another 30 minutes.

10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

11. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick cookies.

12. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

13. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

14. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

15. Serve and enjoy these adorable Checkerboard Hearts cookies with a cup of tea, or package them up as a thoughtful gift for someone special.