12 Delightful Valentine Baked Goods to Share Your Love
Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to express your affection through the art of baking. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner for two or hosting a sweet gathering for friends, these handcrafted treats are designed to spread joy and warmth. From the deep crimson hues of red velvet to the delicate crumb of French macarons, each recipe in this collection offers a unique way to say 'I love you' with every bite. Get ready to preheat your oven and dive into a world of cocoa, berries, and sugar.
Classic Red Velvet Cupcakes
These Red Velvet Cupcakes are the epitome of romance with their striking crimson color and velvety smooth texture. Topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting, they offer a perfect balance of flavors that melt in your mouth. They are a staple for any Valentine's celebration, providing both visual appeal and a nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- •2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- •1.5 cups sugar
- •1 tsp baking soda
- •1 tsp salt
- •1 tsp cocoa powder
- •1.5 cups vegetable oil
- •1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- •2 large eggs, room temperature
- •2 tbsp red food coloring
- •1 tsp white distilled vinegar
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •8 oz cream cheese, softened
- •0.5 cup butter, softened
- •4 cups powdered sugar
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to ensure the cupcakes do not stick.
- 2
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder to remove any lumps and ensure a light texture.
- 3
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform and the color is vibrant.
- 4
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing by hand or with a whisk until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cupcakes.
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5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow space for rising during the baking process.
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6. Bake in the center of the oven for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean without any wet batter.
- 7
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- 8
8. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
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9. Pipe or spread a generous amount of frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles if desired.
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Heart-Shaped Raspberry Linzer Cookies
Linzer cookies are a timeless European treat that features two layers of almond-flavored shortbread sandwiched with a vibrant raspberry jam. The top layer features a heart-shaped cutout that reveals the jewel-toned jam inside, making them look as beautiful as they taste. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a snow-like finish that highlights the center.
Ingredients
- •1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- •0.66 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •1 tsp almond extract
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •1 cup almond flour
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •0.5 cup seedless raspberry jam
- •Powdered sugar for dusting
Method
- 1
1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- 2
2. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, ensuring the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the buttery base.
- 3
3. Whisk the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt together in a separate bowl, then gradually incorporate them into the wet mixture until a firm dough forms.
- 4
4. Divide the dough into two equal discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to make the dough easier to handle.
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5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and use a large heart cutter to create the bottom cookies.
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6. Roll out the second disc and use the same heart cutter, then use a much smaller heart cutter to remove the center of these cookies for the window effect.
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7. Place the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
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8. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before assembling to prevent the jam from melting.
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9. Spread a teaspoon of raspberry jam on each solid bottom cookie, dust the windowed top cookies with powdered sugar, and then press them together gently.
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Strawberry Champagne Layer Cake
This elegant Strawberry Champagne Layer Cake is the ultimate celebratory dessert. The cake layers are infused with real champagne, giving them a sophisticated flavor and a delicate, moist crumb. Between the layers is a fresh strawberry reduction that adds a burst of natural sweetness, all wrapped in a silky champagne-flavored buttercream.
Ingredients
- •3 cups cake flour
- •1.5 tsp baking powder
- •0.5 tsp baking soda
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- •2 cups granulated sugar
- •4 large egg whites
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
- •1 cup strawberry puree
- •0.5 cup sugar (for reduction)
- •1.5 cups butter (for frosting)
- •4 cups powdered sugar
Method
- 1
1. Begin by making a strawberry reduction by simmering the strawberry puree and 0.5 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens and reduces by half.
- 2
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease three 8-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
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3. Sift the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl to ensure the cake has a very fine and even crumb.
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4. In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar for about 5 minutes until very light; then add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the champagne to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined.
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6. Divide the batter equally among the three prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure they bake evenly.
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7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean, then let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them onto wire racks.
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8. Once the cakes are completely cold, spread a thin layer of strawberry reduction between the layers and frost the entire cake with champagne buttercream.
- 9
9. Decorate the top with fresh sliced strawberries and gold leaf for a truly luxurious and romantic presentation.
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Chocolate Dipped French Madeleines
Madeleines are delicate, shell-shaped sponge cakes that originate from France. They have a light, buttery flavor with a hint of lemon zest. To make them extra special for Valentine's Day, one half of each cookie is dipped in dark chocolate and sprinkled with crushed dried rose petals or sea salt, creating a beautiful contrast of colors and textures.
Ingredients
- •3 large eggs, room temperature
- •0.66 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •1 tsp lemon zest
- •1 cup all-purpose flour
- •0.25 tsp salt
- •0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- •4 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- •1 tsp coconut oil
- •Optional: Crushed dried rose petals
Method
- 1
1. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together vigorously for about 5 to 8 minutes until the mixture is thick, pale, and leaves a trail when the whisk is lifted.
- 2
2. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and lemon zest to add a bright, citrusy note to the batter without deflating the air you just whipped in.
- 3
3. Sift the flour and salt over the egg mixture and fold it in very carefully using a rubber spatula until no streaks of flour remain visible.
- 4
4. Slowly pour the melted and cooled butter down the side of the bowl, folding it in gently until the batter is glossy and uniform.
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5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the batter for at least 30 minutes; this helps create the signature 'hump' on the back of the madeleines.
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6. Grease a madeleine pan thoroughly with butter and dust with flour, tapping out the excess to prevent the cakes from sticking to the intricate shell pattern.
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7. Spoon the chilled batter into the molds, filling them about three-quarters full, and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
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8. Remove from the pan immediately and let cool on a wire rack; meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl.
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9. Dip one half of each cooled madeleine into the melted chocolate, place on parchment paper, and sprinkle with rose petals before the chocolate sets.
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Dark Chocolate Fudgy Brownies
For the true chocolate lover, these brownies are a dream come true. They are incredibly dense, fudgy, and packed with deep cocoa flavor. Unlike cakey brownies, these have a cracked, shiny top and a center that is almost like truffle. They are best served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce.
Ingredients
- •1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- •2 cups granulated sugar
- •0.75 cup cocoa powder
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •3 large eggs
- •1 cup all-purpose flour
- •1 cup dark chocolate chips
- •Optional: Flaky sea salt for topping
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
- 2
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, stirring well until the sugar begins to dissolve into the fat.
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3. Whisk in the cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and dark, ensuring there are no large lumps of cocoa.
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4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating vigorously after each addition until the batter looks shiny and cohesive; this step is crucial for the perfect brownie crust.
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5. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour with a spatula until just combined, then stir in the dark chocolate chips for extra pockets of melted chocolate.
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6. Spread the thick batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with an offset spatula so it reaches all the corners of the pan.
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7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes; the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
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8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top while they are still hot to enhance the chocolate flavor.
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9. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out by the parchment paper and slicing them into 16 squares.
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White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies
Blondies are the buttery, vanilla-forward cousins of brownies, and this version is specifically tailored for a romantic treat. The base is rich with brown sugar and butter, providing a chewy texture that perfectly complements the tartness of dried cranberries and the creamy sweetness of white chocolate chunks. They are simple to make but taste incredibly sophisticated.
Ingredients
- •0.75 cup unsalted butter, melted
- •1 cup brown sugar, packed
- •1 large egg
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- •0.5 tsp baking powder
- •0.25 tsp salt
- •0.75 cup white chocolate chips
- •0.5 cup dried cranberries
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for the best results.
- 2
2. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has started to incorporate into the butter.
- 3
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until the batter becomes slightly lighter in color and develops a smooth, glossy appearance.
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4. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt with a wooden spoon or spatula, mixing only until the dry ingredients are fully integrated into the dough.
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5. Fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the thick, cookie-like batter.
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6. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and press it down into an even layer using the back of a spoon or your fingertips.
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7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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8. It is important not to overbake blondies, as they will continue to firm up as they cool; you want them to remain chewy and soft in the middle.
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9. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into rectangles or squares for serving at your Valentine's Day party.
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Cherry Almond Glazed Scones
These scones are perfect for a Valentine's Day brunch. They feature a tender, flaky interior studded with sweet dried cherries and toasted almond slivers. A sweet almond-flavored glaze is drizzled over the top, adding a beautiful finish and an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •0.25 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tbsp baking powder
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- •0.5 cup heavy cream
- •1 large egg
- •1 tsp almond extract
- •0.5 cup dried cherries
- •0.25 cup sliced almonds
- •1 cup powdered sugar
- •2 tbsp milk
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from burning on the bottom.
- 2
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; then use a pastry cutter to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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3. In a small bowl, whisk the heavy cream, egg, and almond extract together until well combined, then pour this into the flour mixture.
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4. Gently stir until a shaggy dough starts to form, then fold in the dried cherries and sliced almonds, taking care not to overwork the dough.
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5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle that is about 1-inch thick, keeping the edges as clean as possible.
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6. Cut the circle into 8 even wedges using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, and place the wedges at least 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
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7. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the scones are puffed up and the tops are a light golden brown color.
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8. While the scones cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of almond extract to create a smooth, pourable glaze.
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9. Once the scones are slightly warm but not hot, drizzle the almond glaze over the tops in a zig-zag pattern and let it set before serving.
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Elegant Rose Water Macarons
Macarons are the ultimate labor of love, requiring patience and precision. These delicate almond meringue cookies are flavored with a hint of rose water, giving them a floral aroma that is synonymous with romance. Filled with a light white chocolate ganache, these pink-shelled treats are as sophisticated as a bouquet of roses.
Ingredients
- •1.75 cups powdered sugar
- •1 cup almond flour, finely ground
- •3 large egg whites, room temperature
- •0.25 cup granulated sugar
- •0.25 tsp cream of tartar
- •2 drops pink gel food coloring
- •1 tsp rose water
- •0.5 cup heavy cream
- •1 cup white chocolate chips
Method
- 1
1. Sift the powdered sugar and almond flour together twice through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure the macaron shells are perfectly smooth and free of bumps.
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2. In a very clean glass or metal bowl, whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
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3. Gradually add the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, increasing the speed to high until the meringue is stiff, glossy, and holds its shape.
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4. Add the pink gel food coloring and rose water during the last few seconds of mixing to achieve a soft blush color and floral scent.
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5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the meringue using the 'macaronage' technique—folding and pressing against the side of the bowl until the batter flows like lava.
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6. Pipe small circles of batter onto a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat, then tap the sheet firmly on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
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7. Let the piped shells sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes until a skin forms on top and they are no longer sticky to the touch.
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8. Bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, then let them cool completely on the mat before attempting to peel them off.
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9. Make a ganache by melting white chocolate with hot heavy cream, let it thicken, then pipe it between two shells to create the final macaron.
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Pink Velvet Swiss Roll
This eye-catching dessert features a light-as-air pink sponge cake rolled around a fluffy marshmallow cream filling. The Swiss roll technique creates a beautiful spiral effect when sliced, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any Valentine's Day dessert table. Its soft texture and mild vanilla-cocoa flavor are truly delightful.
Ingredients
- •4 large eggs, separated
- •0.75 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •2 tbsp vegetable oil
- •2 tbsp buttermilk
- •1 tsp red food coloring
- •0.75 cup cake flour
- •1 tsp baking powder
- •0.25 tsp salt
- •1 cup heavy whipping cream
- •0.5 cup marshmallow fluff
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 10x15 inch jelly roll pan, lining it with parchment paper that also covers the sides.
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2. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and 0.5 cup of sugar until the mixture is thick and pale yellow, then stir in the vanilla, oil, buttermilk, and food coloring.
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3. Sift the cake flour, baking powder, and salt over the yolk mixture and whisk gently until just combined into a smooth pink batter.
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4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining 0.25 cup of sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the pink batter in three stages.
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5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
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6. Immediately turn the hot cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake and towel together from the short end.
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7. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely in the towel; this 'trains' the cake to hold its shape without cracking when filled later.
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8. For the filling, whip the heavy cream until stiff, then fold in the marshmallow fluff until the mixture is light, airy, and stable.
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9. Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling evenly over the surface, and roll it back up tightly; refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing and serving.
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Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Muffins
These muffins are a chocolate lover's dream, featuring a rich cocoa base and a hidden core of molten Nutella. They are incredibly moist and decadent, making them a perfect morning treat or an after-dinner snack. The surprise hazelnut center adds a layer of luxury that makes these feel much more special than a standard muffin.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •0.5 cup cocoa powder
- •0.75 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tbsp baking powder
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •1 cup whole milk
- •0.5 cup vegetable oil
- •2 large eggs
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •0.5 cup Nutella
- •0.5 cup chocolate chips
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners; for best results, use deep liners to accommodate the filling.
- 2
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until there are no clumps of cocoa remaining.
- 3
3. In a separate medium bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisking until the wet ingredients are completely emulsified.
- 4
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a large spoon until just combined; it is okay if the batter is slightly lumpy.
- 5
5. Spoon about one tablespoon of batter into the bottom of each muffin cup, then place a rounded teaspoon of Nutella directly in the center of the batter.
- 6
6. Top the Nutella with the remaining muffin batter, ensuring the hazelnut spread is completely covered so it does not leak out during baking.
- 7
7. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with chocolate chips for extra texture and a double-dose of chocolate flavor in every single bite.
- 8
8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the muffins have risen and the tops feel firm to the touch when pressed gently.
- 9
9. Let the muffins cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes; the Nutella center will be very hot, so allowing them to rest ensures the perfect gooey consistency.
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Heart-Shaped Jam-Filled Doughnuts
There is nothing quite like a fresh, homemade yeast doughnut. These heart-shaped beauties are fried until golden brown, tossed in granulated sugar, and filled with a sweet strawberry or raspberry jam. They are soft, pillowy, and the perfect handmade gift to show someone you care about them this Valentine's Day.
Ingredients
- •1 packet active dry yeast
- •0.25 cup warm water
- •0.75 cup warm milk
- •0.25 cup granulated sugar
- •1 tsp salt
- •1 large egg
- •3 tbsp softened butter
- •3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- •Oil for frying
- •1 cup strawberry jam
- •Extra sugar for coating
Method
- 1
1. Dissolve the yeast in warm water in the bowl of a stand mixer and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and active.
- 2
2. Add the warm milk, sugar, salt, egg, and softened butter to the bowl, and mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined.
- 3
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, using the dough hook attachment until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms and pulls away from the sides.
- 4
4. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic, then place it in a greased bowl and let it rise in a warm place for one hour.
- 5
5. On a floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/2-inch thickness and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many hearts as possible.
- 6
6. Place the dough hearts on a parchment-lined sheet, cover them with a clean towel, and let them rise again for another 30 to 45 minutes until doubled in size.
- 7
7. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and fry the doughnuts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side.
- 8
8. Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and immediately toss them in a bowl of granulated sugar while they are still hot so the sugar sticks.
- 9
9. Use a small knife to poke a hole in the side of each doughnut, then use a piping bag to fill each one with a generous amount of jam.
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Rich Red Wine Chocolate Cake
This sophisticated cake uses red wine to enhance the chocolate flavor and create a crumb that is incredibly moist and tender. The wine adds a subtle fruity depth that pairs perfectly with dark cocoa. Topped with a simple chocolate ganache, this cake is an adult-friendly Valentine's Day dessert that is both rich and romantic.
Ingredients
- •2 cups all-purpose flour
- •0.75 cup cocoa powder
- •1.5 tsp baking powder
- •0.5 tsp salt
- •1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- •1.5 cups granulated sugar
- •2 large eggs
- •1 tsp vanilla extract
- •1 cup dry red wine (like Cabernet)
- •4 oz dark chocolate
- •0.5 cup heavy cream
Method
- 1
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9-inch bundt pan or round cake pan, dusting it with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
- 2
2. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl to ensure the cake has a light and airy structure.
- 3
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together for several minutes until the mixture is very pale and has a fluffy texture.
- 4
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- 5
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the red wine to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture, and stirring until just smooth.
- 6
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure it bakes evenly without any large air pockets.
- 7
7. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- 8
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- 9
9. Heat the heavy cream and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate to make a ganache; let it sit for a minute, stir until smooth, and pour over the cooled cake.
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Wrapping Up
We hope these twelve recipes bring a touch of sweetness to your Valentine's Day celebrations. Baking is more than just following a recipe; it is a labor of love that creates lasting memories. Whether you chose the decadent chocolate cake or the light and airy macarons, sharing these treats with someone special is the ultimate gift. Happy baking and Happy Valentine's Day!