These adorable little cookies have a secret ingredient and each one packs a tiny punch!

Makes 8 dozen bite-size cookies

In a stand mixer, mix until creamy and fluffy:

1 cup room-temperature butter

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Add to combine:

1 Tbsp vanilla

Add:

2 cups flour

2 tablespoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Beat to combine. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate 20 minutes.

On a floured surface, roll out dough ¼” thick. Using a 1” heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out cookies. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place dough ½” apart on baking sheet. Sprinkle with red sanding sugar and press to adhere. Bake at 350^o until golden around edges, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a rack to cool completely.