Heart-Shaped Mesquite Flour Cookies

(Lightly sweet, nutty, and perfect for gifting!)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mesquite flour
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• ½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 egg (or flax egg: 1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (or plant-based alternative)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together mesquite flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and milk, mixing well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
5. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes (for easier rolling).
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thick.
7. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are slightly golden.
9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Optional Decorations:

• Dust with powdered sugar for a simple touch.
• Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for extra indulgence.