Valentine’s Day is not just about roses and candlelit dinners. It is also about the small, sweet moments we share with the people we love. And what better way to share those moments than with dessert? Whether you are hosting a Galentine’s party, wanting to surprise your significant other, or just craving something sweet, Valentine-themed desserts are the perfect solution. If you are looking to keep it simple with some cookies or want to test your skills in the kitchen, these recipes are all guaranteed to add some extra sweetness to the holiday.
Classic Brownies
Whenever I think of Valentine’s Day, I think of chocolate. Classic brownies are the perfect, easy choice for a party, or just to have a treat. My go-to brownie recipe comes from my absolute favorite baking influencer, Broma Bakery. Her recipe includes brown butter, which makes the chocolate flavor bloom even more. The brown butter and melted chocolate, combined with the whipped eggs and sugar, make a decadent flavor with the classic crackled top. These brownies are the perfect combination of being fudgy without being too dense. https://bromabakery.com/brown-butter-brownies/
Thumbprint Cookies
Thinking of having something smaller to serve at a party? Classic thumbprint cookies with jam are the perfect choice. These cookies are similar to shortbread, with a nice jam filling right in the middle. To make the dent for your filling, simply press your thumb into your rolled-out dough. For Valentine’s, you can also use your thumb to make a heart shape! I typically use raspberry jam for my filling, but you can also use chocolate, caramel, or whatever jam you prefer. This recipe comes from Preppy Kitchen. https://preppykitchen.com/thumbprint-cookies/
Chocolate Chip Blondies
Not in the mood for too much chocolate? These blondies are gooey chocolate chip cookies in bar form. You can add chocolate chips, pink m&m’s, or even sprinkles. These bars also start off with brown butter, giving the dough a rich and nutty flavor. These are also perfect for giving out to friends (or keeping for yourself), and they save very well in the freezer. This recipe comes from @mersgoodeats on TikTok. You can find the full recipe in the link in her bio.
Chocolate Raspberry Cake
If you’re looking to try a new challenge in the kitchen, consider making this two-layer cake. Chocolate and raspberry are a perfect match, and this cake is the perfect treat for Valentine’s Day. This dessert has two layers of rich and fluffy cake, a homemade tart raspberry filling in the middle and a delicious fudgy frosting. I made this cake for a dinner party with the neighbors, and now my family requests it all the time. The tartness of the raspberry complements and offsets the richness of the chocolate, making for a cake that is not too sweet or too sour. This recipe also comes from Broma Bakery. https://bromabakery.com/raspberry-chocolate-cake/
Whether you are baking for someone special or simply celebrating yourself, a homemade treat is a good reminder that love can be found in the little things. So, grab your baking gear and give an extra touch to this holiday.