DIY Lovebug Cookies

Give your lovebugs some lovebug cookies this Valentine's Day. These super cute chocolate sugar cookies are sure to put a smile on their face.

I didn't have a bug cookie cutter, so I just used two different sized circles (small jars actually) and then stuck them together before baking. (I dampened the edges to be joined very slightly with milk). I was a little worried about the heads falling off, but this method worked without any problem.for me

You can even invite your kids to help you make these. Most kids love to cut out sugar cookies and paint on the icing.

Do be sure to let the sugar cookies cool completely before icing and the icing harden completely before adding words, stacking, or serving for best presentation.

Homemade Roll Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 
• 1/4 cup cocoa
• 1 cup butter or margarine softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• Milk (if the dough is too dry)

1. Cream together butter and sugar.
2. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
3. Add dry ingredients, incorporating flour about 1 cup at a time.
4. If the dough is too dry add milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
5. Chill in the refrigerator a couple of hours or overnight. I did find that with all real butter though I had to let the dough soften up a bit after chilling it overnight.
6. Roll small sections of dough at a time to 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
7. Bake at 400F for 6-8 minutes, until edges just begin to brown.

Powdered Sugar Icing Recipe

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 Tbsp milk
• Food coloring

1. Place powdered sugar is a small mixing bowl and add milk a Tbsp at a time until a nice consistency. Stir until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
2. Drizzle or paint cooled cookies a solid color with a food safe brush. Sprinkle with sugar or sprinkles if desired.
3. Allow to harden for at least 1 hour before carefully contrasting color for stripes and spots on the bugs.
4. Allow to harden again at least 1 hour before stacking or serving.