Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour heart-shaped molds or a baking sheet if using cookies.
2. Prepare cake/cookie batter: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and milk until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients until combined.
3. Shape and bake: For cake, pour batter into heart-shaped molds. For cookies, roll dough and cut into heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Bake 12–18 minutes for cookies or 25–30 minutes for cakes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow baked goods to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare cerise glaze/filling: In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until softened. Mash lightly or blend for smooth consistency. Add cornstarch if a thicker glaze is desired. Let cool slightly.
6. Assemble: Spread cerise glaze over cooled cakes or cookies. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle chocolate, or add edible pearls.