Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in delicious and decadent desserts with your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating with your partner, friends, or family, these 20 Valentine’s desserts will surely impress and delight everyone. From classic favorites to unique and creative sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this special day of love.
20 Delicious valentine desserts
1. Chocolate-covered strawberries
A timeless Valentine’s dessert, these luscious fresh strawberries coated in rich, velvety chocolate are a perfect combination of fruity sweetness and indulgent decadence.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 450 grams) of fresh strawberries, washed and dried thoroughly
- 8 ounces (about 225 grams) of semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- Optional: White chocolate, chopped (for drizzling)
- Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed candies for decoration
Instructions:
Heat the chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate. Hold each strawberry by the stem or leaves and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling to coat it completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper leaving space between each strawberry so they don’t stick together. If desired, you can immediately sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed candies over the wet chocolate before it sets at room temperature or in the fridge if you prefer a firmer texture.
2. Red velvet cupcakes
These iconic red-hued cupcakes with cream cheese frosting are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious, making them a must-have treat on Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cups (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon (5g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cups (180ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) red food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
Instructions:
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour mixture and buttermilk. Divide into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes. Allow to cool, then frost with cream cheese frosting.
Red velvet cupcakes are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, with a moist and tender crumb and a rich cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the hint of cocoa. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to delight!
3. Heart-shaped sugar cookies
Bake some heart-shaped sugar cookies and decorate them with pink or red icing for a lovely and festive Valentine’s treat that is fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour mixture. Roll out the dough and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter. Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Allow to cool and decorate with icing.
4. Chocolate lava cake
This indulgent dessert with its ooey-gooey, molten chocolate center is a classic Valentine’s favorite. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sweet experience.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
Melt dark chocolate and butter over a double boiler. Whisk eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Combine both mixtures and pour into greased ramekins. Bake at 400°F for about 12-14 minutes.
Chocolate lava cakes are a classic dessert that never fails to impress. With their velvety texture and oozing chocolate center, they are perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a little indulgence. Enjoy the magic of these irresistible treats!
5. Raspberry macarons
These delicate and elegant French cookies sandwiched with raspberry filling are not only visually stunning but also offer a burst of fruity and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Macaron Shells:
- 1 cup (100g) almond flour
- 3/4 cup (100g) powdered sugar
- 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- Pink food coloring (gel or powder), optional
Instructions:
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Set aside. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh raspberries and granulated sugar. Cook over low heat, mashing the raspberries with a fork, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. In a medium bowl, sift together the almond flour and powdered sugar.
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy. Tap the baking sheets on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles. Let the piped macarons rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, until a slight skin forms on the surface.
Gently fold the almond flour mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small circles (about 1 inch in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Once the macarons have formed a skin, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
6. Strawberry shortcake
A light and refreshing option, strawberry shortcake features layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. It’s a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients:
For the Shortcakes:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat it into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. Using a biscuit cutter or a round glass, cut out circles of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each shortcake.
Bake the shortcakes in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Mousse au chocolat
Indulge in a velvety smooth chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth. It’s a rich and creamy dessert that will leave you and your loved ones craving more.
Ingredients:
- 7 ounces (200g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
Place the finely chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth. Carefully separate the egg yolks from the egg whites. Place the egg yolks in a large mixing bowl and set aside. Place the egg whites in a separate mixing bowl.
Beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy. Gradually add half of the granulated sugar and continue to beat until soft peaks form. Add the remaining granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the egg yolks. Beat the egg yolks until they become pale and creamy.
Gradually pour the melted chocolate into the beaten egg yolks, stirring until well combined and smooth. Gently fold half of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture using a spatula until no streaks remain. Add the remaining beaten egg whites to the chocolate mixture and continue folding gently until fully combined.
8. Red velvet brownies
Combining the flavors of red velvet cake and gooey brownies, these red velvet brownies are a scrumptious twist on a classic, resulting in a moist, chocolatey treat that will leave you wanting seconds.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring, until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.
Sift in the cocoa powder and salt, and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in the white vinegar. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until just combined. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese swirl, spreading it evenly to cover the cream cheese layer. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes
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9. Heart-shaped mini cheesecakes
Bake these adorable heart-shaped mini cheesecakes and top them with your favorite fruity sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful Valentine’s dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream, at room temperature
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a mini cheesecake pan with heart-shaped molds or use silicone molds placed on a baking sheet. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press a tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each heart-shaped mold to form the crust.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crusts, filling each mold almost to the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheesecakes are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
10. Love Potion Cocktail
It’s not just desserts that can make Valentine’s Day special—how about a romantic cocktail? The Love Potion Cocktail, made with sparkling wine, pomegranate juice, and a splash of vodka, is a fizzy and fruity drink that will set the mood for a romantic evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) raspberry liqueur
- 1 oz (30 ml) vodka
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) grenadine
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) lemon juice
- 2 oz (60 ml) cranberry juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh raspberries or lemon twist, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice into the shaker. Shake the ingredients well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled with ice. Garnish with a maraschino cherry. Serve and enjoy your Love Potion Cocktail!
11. Red velvet truffles
These bite-sized red velvet truffles are made with a combination of cake crumbs and cream cheese, coated in chocolate, and are perfect for a sweet indulgence on Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients:
For the Truffles:
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups (200g) red velvet cake crumbs (from prepared red velvet cake)
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 ounces (340g) white chocolate, chopped
- Red candy melts or red chocolate for coating (optional)
- Sprinkles or crushed red velvet cake crumbs for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
Bake the red velvet cake according to the instructions on the package. Allow it to cool completely. Crumble the cooled cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a fork. Mix in cream cheese frosting gradually until the mixture is moist enough to roll into balls without crumbling apart.
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the truffles. In the meantime, melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Optionally, add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve a deeper red color.
Dip each chilled truffle into the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off, and return them to the parchment paper.
12. Chocolate-dipped pretzels
Create a sweet and salty combination by dipping pretzel rods in melted chocolate and sprinkling them with festive Valentine ‘s-themed sprinkles.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (10-12 ounces) pretzel rods or twists
- 8-10 ounces (225-280g) chocolate (dark, milk, or white), chopped
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, crushed candies, shredded coconut, sea salt, etc.
Instructions:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Dip each pretzel rod or twist into the melted chocolate, using a spoon or spatula to help coat the pretzel evenly.
Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then place the chocolate-coated pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle the chocolate-coated pretzels with toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or candy pieces before the chocolate sets. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely.
13. Heart-shaped apple turnovers
These flaky and fruity heart-shaped apple turnovers are a delectable treat that is not too heavy on sweetness but still satisfies your dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry sheets
- Apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Lemon juice
- Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a little water)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice to taste. Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into heart shapes using a heart-shaped cookie cutter.
Place a spoonful of the apple mixture onto one-half of each heart-shaped pastry. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash, then fold the other half of the heart over the filling to create a turnover. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the turnovers.
Place the turnovers onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the turnovers with egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
14. Chocolate-covered cherries
Classic and elegant, chocolate-covered cherries are bite-sized treats with a burst of sweet cherry and a luscious chocolate coating. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 450g) fresh cherries with stems, washed and pitted
- 8 ounces (about 225g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for thinning the chocolate)
- Optional: Maraschino liqueur or cherry brandy for soaking cherries (optional)
Instructions:
Wash and pat dry the cherries, leaving the stems intact. Remove the pits if desired. Line a baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If the chocolate is too thick, you can add a small amount of vegetable shortening to help thin it out.
Hold each cherry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place the chocolate-covered cherries onto the prepared baking sheet. Once all cherries are dipped, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely.
15. Strawberry Nutella French toast
Surprise your loved ones with a decadent Valentine’s breakfast by making French toast stuffed with fresh strawberries and Nutella. Drizzle it with syrup and dust lightly with powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices of bread (thick slices, such as brioche or challah)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter or cooking spray, for frying
Instructions:
Spread Nutella on one side of each slice of bread. Place sliced strawberries on top of the Nutella on half of the slices, then sandwich with the remaining slices to form sandwiches. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to make the French toast batter.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter or spray with cooking spray. Dip each Nutella-strawberry sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the dipped sandwiches onto the hot skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
16. Pink velvet cake
A twist on the classic red velvet cake, the pink velvet cake is a soft and moist dessert with a hint of raspberry flavoring that adds a lovely touch to your Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pink gel food coloring
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs, then add oil, buttermilk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and well incorporated. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
17. Heart-shaped pavlova
This light and airy dessert made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, all shaped into a heart, is a perfect sweet treat to share with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
For the Pavlova:
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until just combined. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a heart shape with slightly raised edges.
Smooth the surface of the pavlova with a spatula or the back of a spoon, creating a slight well in the center for the toppings. Bake the pavlova in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the outside is crisp and dry.
18. Chocolate-dipped marshmallows
A simple yet delightful dessert, chocolate-dipped marshmallows are a fun and easy treat to make. Dip marshmallows into melted chocolate and add sprinkles or chopped nuts for added texture.
Ingredients:
- Large marshmallows
- Chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
- Optional: Sprinkles, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed candies for decoration
Instructions:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If the chocolate is too thick, you can add a small amount of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to help thin it out.
Spear each marshmallow with a toothpick or skewer. Dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate, swirling it around to coat it completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off. If desired, roll the chocolate-coated marshmallows in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut for added decoration.
Place the chocolate-dipped marshmallows onto the prepared baking sheet. Once all marshmallows are dipped and decorated, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate sets completely.
19. Valentine’s ice cream sandwiches
Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to create perfectly shaped cookies, and sandwich your favorite ice cream flavors between them for a fun and delicious frozen dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red or pink food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take one cookie and place a scoop of ice cream on its flat side. Top the ice cream with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. Press down gently to spread the ice cream to the edges of the cookies.
Optionally, roll the edges of the ice cream in Valentine’s-themed sprinkles or toppings for decoration. Repeat with the remaining cookies and ice cream to make more sandwiches. Once all sandwiches are assembled, place them on the prepared baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze the sandwiches for at least 1 hour, or until the ice cream is firm.
20. Strawberry champagne cupcakes
Add a touch of elegance to your Valentine’s Day celebrations with these strawberry champagne cupcakes. Infused with champagne and topped with luscious strawberry frosting, they are the perfect way to toast to love.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) champagne or sparkling wine
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped strawberries
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the cake mix box for cupcakes. Line a cupcake pan with paper liners. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, champagne, vegetable oil, and eggs.
Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until smooth and well combined. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven according to the time and temperature specified on the cake mix box for cupcakes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
From rich and chocolatey delights to fruity and refreshing treats, these 20 Valentine’s desserts will add a dash of sweetness and love to your celebrations. Whether you are looking to impress your significant other or treat your friends and family, these delightful creations will be the icing on the cake for a memorable and indulgent Valentine’s Day.
