60 Valentine’s Day Desserts for Your Sweetheart

Chocolate Cake Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chocolate Cake

Is there anything more celebratory than a layered chocolate cake with fluffy chocolate frosting? To fit the theme of the holiday a bit more, bake the cakes in heart-shaped pans and decorate with raspberries or strawberries.

“Years ago, I drove 4-1/2 hours to a cake contest, holding my entry on my lap the whole way. But it paid off. One bite and you’ll see why this velvety beauty was named the best chocolate cake recipe and won first prize.” —Recipe contributor Sandra Johnson, Tioga, Pennsylvania

ELLIE CROWLEY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate-Covered Cherries

Chocolate-covered cherries look completely gourmet but barely take any effort at all. Each maraschino cherry is wrapped in an almond-flavored candy coating and enrobed in chocolate, like something out of an artisan chocolate shop.

“Not only are these chocolate-covered cherries my family’s favorite festive dessert, but they make a delicious holiday present too. Best of all, you can (and should) prepare these ahead. The candy gets better as it’s stored, with the centers becoming even juicier.” —Recipe contributor Linda Hammerich, Bonanza, Oregon

TASTE OF HOME

Butter Cookies

The classic sugar cookie is a great dessert idea for any holiday. Make these extra festive with a heart-shaped cookie cutter and pink, red and white frosting. Valentine’s Day sprinkles are optional but encouraged.

“This great butter cookie recipe is a favorite of my nephews, who love the creamy frosting.” —Recipe contributor Ruth Griggs, South Hill, Virginia

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Raspberry Cake

This raspberry cake is made simply from a box of white cake mix that’s been stirred and baked with one package of raspberry gelatin and a few other kitchen staples. Once it’s cooled, spread it with the “frosting,” made from whipped topping and frozen raspberries. Easy!

“Jazz up plain cake with raspberry gelatin and frozen berries. Spread with a light, fruity whipped topping (or this whipped topping substitute), the festive results make a cool and refreshing dessert.” —Recipe contributor Marion Anderson, Dalton, Minnesota

TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry Ice

If your sweetheart’s favorite treats lie in the frozen dessert realm, but making homemade ice cream is out of the question, this strawberry ice will save the day. All you need to do is blend up four ingredients, freeze for four to six hours and blend one more time. Serve big scoops of this hot pink, icy treat with mint leaves and lemon slices.

“When we pick strawberries at a local farm, this is what many of the berries are used for. It’s a great summertime treat.” —Recipe contributor Kim Hammond, Watsonville, California

TASTE OF HOME

Tuxedo Strawberries

These tuxedo strawberries are all set for their Valentine’s Day debut. Their adorable black tie decoration puts a fun spin on the traditional chocolate-covered strawberries.

“Dress up special occasions with these high-fashion fruit treats! The strawberries are easy to decorate, and folks love them.” —Recipe contributor Gisella Sellers, Seminole, Florida

TASTE OF HOME

Conversation Cupcakes

These Valentine’s Day candy lookalikes are perfectly on theme. Use the classic candy sentiments or customize them for your partner with funny sayings, inside jokes or their name written on a few.

“Enjoy frosting sweet sentiments onto these Valentine’s cupcakes by baking a batch ahead of time using no-fuss cake mix. You don’t even need a heart-shaped muffin tin to make them.” — Taste of Home Test Kitchen

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry Poke Cake

After baking the cakes using a box of white cake mix, poke holes in each cake and fill them with liquid strawberry gelatin. The gelatin will run and set into the cake, leaving gorgeous red-hued streaks throughout. All there’s left to do is assemble the cakes with a quick frosting made from whipped topping and strawberries.

“That classic spring treat—strawberry shortcake—takes on a wonderful new twist with this strawberry poke cake recipe. Strawberry gelatin and strawberries liven up each pretty slice of this lovely layered cake that’s made from a convenient boxed mix.” —Recipe contributor Mary Jo Griggs, West Bend, Wisconsin

Berry Trifle Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Berry Trifle

I’ve always found trifle recipes to be completely under appreciated. They’re almost too easy to pull off, and the result is absolutely gorgeous every single time. Use raspberries, cherries and strawberries for a pink and red Valentine’s Day version.

“This Berry Trifle is a delicious salute to summer! I usually serve it during the summer when fresh berries are bountiful, but you can also prepare it with frozen cherries and light cherry pie filling during cooler months.” —Recipe contributor Brenda Paine, North Syracuse, New York

TASTE OF HOME

Be-Mine Sandwich Cookies

This is a great project to do with kids who want to give mom or dad a Valentine’s Day present! It’s as easy as dipping Oreos into melted chocolate and decorating with sprinkles to your heart’s content. Use gluten-free Oreos if needed.

“These simple cookies are the first thing to disappear from dessert tables. They’re cute, colorful and extremely fast to make.” —Recipe contributor Darcie Cross, Novi, Michigan

Cherry Tarts Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cherry Tarts

Every aspect of these cherry tarts is homemade, from the tart’s crust to the sweet cherry filling. Anyone will appreciate the fact (and feel completely special) that you put in true effort toward their gift.

“At our house, we celebrate George Washington’s birthday with this cherry dessert.” —Recipe contributor Verna Burkholder, Dorchester, Wisconsin

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

White Chocolate-Strawberry Tiramisu

We know there are a few of you out there whose Valentine loves tiramisu. This white chocolate-strawberry version is your ticket to creating the perfect Valentine’s Day dessert or gift for them, without any tricky egg yolk cooking or baking ladyfingers from scratch.

“Here’s a twist on a classic dessert that highlights another flavor combo my husband and I love: strawberries and white chocolate. Lighten it up if you’d like—I’ve had good luck with light nondairy whipped topping and reduced-fat cream cheese.” —Recipe contributor Anna Ginsberg, Chicago, Illinois

Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Strawberry Cheesecake

If you’re searching this list for a truly elegant dessert, stop scrolling. Every component of this strawberry cheesecake is special: the pecan-graham cracker crust, the cheesecake filling that uses four packages of cream cheese, the sour cream topping and the strawberry glaze with orange-flavored liqueur.

“The creamy texture and lovely look of this strawberry cheesecake always get compliments.” —Recipe contributor L.C. Herschap, Luling, Texas

ALEJANDRO MONFORT FOR TASTE OF HOME

Raspberry Mousse

I love making mousse recipes because they’re unexpected but still completely decadent and flavorful. These light desserts are a welcome sight after a heavy, filling Valentine’s Day dinner.

“This creamy, smooth mousse is a refreshing finale to any summer meal.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate Fudge Cake

If your sweetheart is a chocolate lover to their very core, this chocolate fudge cake is the key to their heart. The homemade Devil’s food cake is assembled with thick fudge frosting that’s unapologetically chocolatey.

“This recipe won several blue ribbons at our state fair. The made-from-scratch chocolate layer cake topped with a fudgy homemade frosting is truly a can’t-miss dessert.” —Recipe contributor Donna Carman, Tulsa, Oklahoma

TASTE OF HOME

French Silk Pie

Light, smooth and gorgeously chocolaty, French silk pie is like biting into a delightful chocolate cloud. We made this recipe a little easier with a refrigerated pie crust, but there are no cutting corners on the smooth-as-silk filling.

“I first made French silk pie when I was in high school. Years later, I tinkered with the recipe until I was happy with it. Now it’s one of my husband’s favorites.” —Recipe contributor Lisa Francis, Elba, Alabama

Soft White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

These cookies are just as easy to make as your classic chocolate chip cookie, but with white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a pink and white Valentine’s Day twist. Pro tip: Make your cookie dough 24 hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator so the flavors have a chance to meld together and the fat can solidify.

“These sweet cookies feature white chocolate and cranberries for a delightful taste. They add a perfect holiday feel to any cookie tray.” —Recipe contributor Donna Beck, Scottdale, Pennsylvania

TASTE OF HOME

Pink Cupcakes

What’s more perfect for Valentine’s Day than a batch of pink cupcakes? Scatter pink sprinkles on the white chocolate ganache frosting for a decorative finish.

“My daughter loves all things pink, so this recipe was just right for her birthday. Even my teenage son (not a fan of pink) ate his share too.” —Recipe contributor Paulette Smith, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Chocolate Raspberry Cake Recipe photo by Leticia Almeida for Taste of Home

Chocolate Raspberry Cake

There’s a lot more raspberry infused into this cake than what meets the eye. This chocolate cake has a raspberry filling made with raspberry liqueur and raspberry jam, with even more raspberry liqueur soaked into the dark chocolate frosting.

“Whenever I make this chocolate raspberry cake, I get rave reviews. It’s impressive, and the raspberry filling is wonderful.” —Recipe contributor Marlene Sanders, Paradise, Texas

TASTE OF HOME

White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies

Fans of frosted brownies will love their dessert relative: blondies. These white chocolate cranberry blondies are finished with a cream cheese and orange zest frosting that’s pure perfection.

“Friends sometimes ask me to make these for wedding receptions. For a fancier presentation, I cut the bars into triangle shapes and drizzle white chocolate over each one individually.” —Recipe contributor Erika Busz, Kent, Washington

Chocolate-Covered Coconut Candy Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chocolate-Covered Coconut Candy

Chocolate candies feel quintessentially Valentine’s Day. Finish the candies with pink, red and white sprinkles to stay on-theme for the holiday. If this treat is just for you and your sweetheart, cut the recipe in half.

“These coconut candy balls disappear just as fast as I put them out. They’re a snap to whip up and make a beautiful presentation on any holiday cookie plate. I mound them high and sprinkle with coconut… then watch them vanish!” —Recipe contributor Mary Ann Marino, West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

TASTE OF HOME

Raspberry Meringue Hearts

These raspberry heart meringues look like a dessert straight from a Michelin-starred restaurant. Each heart-shaped meringue is filled with a homemade raspberry filling and topped with a scoop of sorbet, sliced almonds and fresh raspberries.

“Here’s a lovely dessert that your guests will think is almost too pretty to eat! I love the graceful heart shape of the raspberry meringue.” —Recipe contributor Mary Lou Wayman, Salt Lake City, Utah

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Peanut Butter Cups

If your sweetheart is a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup connoisseur, they’ll go crazy for a homemade version. Since there are so few ingredients, it’s worth splurging on the best chocolate chips and the best peanut butter for a truly incredible (and better than the original) dessert.

“I like using pretty mini muffin liners and topping these homemade peanut butter cups with colored sprinkles to coordinate with the holiday we’re celebrating. People can’t believe how simple it is to make this irresistible candy with gooey peanut butter centers. This is how to make homemade peanut butter cups.” —Recipe contributor LaVonne Hegland, St. Michael, Minnesota

TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry Cream Cake

This light cake is for anyone who’s chocolate-averse. With delicate vanilla and bright strawberries, it’s the opposite of a heavy, rich and dense chocolate dessert you might expect on Valentine’s Day.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made everyone ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ when they see this beautiful dessert. It is wonderful for any occasion.” —Recipe contributor Agnes DeLeon, Melrose, Montana

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

If your Valentine loves sugar cookies that are so soft they basically melt in your mouth, then these sour cream cookies will blow them away. Cut out the cookies with a heart-shaped cutter and frost them with pink, red and white frosting for the holiday.

“I make these cookies for my family and our neighbors every Valentine’s Day. The heart-shaped treats stay soft for at least a week, and they look so pretty frosted bright pink and then piped with lacy frosting.” —Recipe contributor Carolyn Walton, Smoot, Wyoming

Lava Chocolate Cakes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chocolate Lava Cake

Follow your elegant Valentine’s Day dinner with an equally impressive and luxurious dessert. Lava cakes have a molten chocolate center surrounded by decadent chocolate cake. Serve each ramekin with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.

“True decadence at its best, these chocolate lava cakes created by the Taste of Home Cooking School feature a warm, gooey chocolate center that oozes out onto the dessert plate. Whether you enjoy it garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar, you’ll want to lick the plate clean!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chocolate-Strawberry Celebration Cake Recipe photo by Alejandro Monfort for Taste of Home

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

Although it looks completely impressive, this chocolate strawberry cake is actually very approachable. The cake itself is made with boxed cake mix and instant chocolate pudding, and the frosting and ganache come together in no time at all. Arrange strawberries on top for the easiest decoration ever.

“Although I have some wonderful from-scratch recipes, this one uses a boxed mix with plenty of doctoring. It has become a popular groom’s cake that gets more attention than the wedding cake.” —Recipe contributor Nora Fitzgerald, Sevierville, Tennessee

ALEJANDRO MONFORT FOR TASTE OF HOME

Brownie Trifle

This brownie trifle is for serious peanut butter-chocolate fans. There are three kinds of peanut butter (peanut butter chips, mini peanut butter cups and straight peanut butter) assembled into individual serving glasses with pieces of dark, decadent brownies.

“This rich, tempting, peanut butter brownie trifle feeds a crowd and features the ever-popular combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Try this dessert for your next get-together.” —Recipe contributor Nancy Foust, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Cheesecake-Stuffed Strawberries

Anyone in need of a gluten-free, low-carb Valentine’s Day dessert need only these cheesecake-stuffed strawberries. Ready in 20 minutes, these treats are a no-bake dream.

“These luscious cheesecake-stuffed strawberries are the perfect bite-sized dessert.” —Recipe contributor Stephen Munro, Beaver Bank, Nova Scotia

KRISTINA VANNI FOR TASTE OF HOME

Red Velvet Cookies

Red velvet cookies are the easier alternative to a layered red velvet cake. Their red and white coloring makes them a perfect contender for an on-theme Valentine’s Day dessert.

“My student job in college was in the bakery. These dreamy morsels take me back to that special place and time. Red velvet lovers will appreciate this fun take on the cake.” —Recipe contributor Christina Petri, Alexandria, Minnesota

Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake

What screams Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day more than a giant pink strawberry cake? Save your prettiest strawberries for garnishing, or top the cake with chocolate-covered strawberries for an extra special Valentine’s touch.

“My husband loved his mamaw’s strawberry cake recipe. He thought no one could duplicate it. I made it, and it’s just as scrumptious as he remembers.” —Recipe contributor Jennifer Bruce, Manitou, Kentucky

Leticia Almeida for Taste of Home

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

White chocolate raspberry is a classic Valentine’s Day flavor, and perfect in the form of a cheesecake. If your cheesecake cracks, don’t fret, just cover it up with whipped cream or extra raspberry jam.

“As a dairy farmer’s wife, I have experience making cheesecake. In fact, most anything containing milk products is tasty in my book. If I’m out of cream cheese, it’s time to go to the grocery store!” —Recipe contributor Wendy Barkman, Breezewood, Pennsylvania

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry Cheesecake Bites

These little bites of heaven are the more wholesome version of a decadent strawberry cheesecake. Leave off the graham cracker crumbs to keep this Valentine’s Day dessert gluten-free, if needed.

“These treats are a perfect mouthful of strawberry, sweet cream cheese filling and just a drizzle of chocolate. Easy to fill and fix ahead, they add tempting variety to brunch or party offerings—and make a delicious homemade gift.” —Recipe contributor Linda Baldt, Croydon, Pennsylvania

Red Velvet Pound Cake Recipe photo by Ruthie Darling for Taste of Home

Red Velvet Pound Cake

This delicious pound cake mimics a red velvet cake’s flavor perfectly, right down to the cream cheese frosting. Make sure you know how to grease a Bundt pan the right way to avoid any cracking and breaking.

“This delicious red velvet pound cake is the perfect combination of flavors. Make sure the cake has cooled before icing it; for extra crunch sprinkle some roasted pecans on top.” —Recipe contributor Robin Smith, Old Fort, North Carolina

Cherry Kiss Cookies Recipe photo by Ruthie Darling for Taste of Home

Cherry Blossom Cookies

Fans of peanut butter blossoms will love this Valentine version. Instead of a peanut butter cookie, sweet maraschino cherries make the naturally pink base for the chocolate kiss to sit in.

“Topped with a chocolate kiss, these cherry-flavored cookies look super cute on a dessert tray. Share them with family and friends.” —Recipe contributor Joy Yurk, Grafton, Wisconsin

Bourbon Balls Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Bourbon Balls

We all have a whisky fan in our lives. If it’s your sweetheart, then whip up a batch of these bourbon balls that are enrobed in dark chocolate, and serve them with a neat glass of their favorite type of whisky.

“Remember the days at Grandma and Grandpa’s house when you made these wonderfully traditional treats? We love these Kentucky Derby bourbon balls—the blended taste of bourbon and pecans is irresistible!” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Red Velvet Cake Balls Recipe photo by Orly Catz for Taste of Home

Red Velvet Cake Balls

These red velvet cake balls could not be easier to pull off. Prepare and bake a red velvet cake mix, crumble it up, and stir in cream cheese frosting. Roll the dough into balls and enrobe them in white, semisweet or dark chocolate. Feel free to add Valentine’s Day sprinkles for extra decor.

“Everyone loves red velvet, but any cake mix can work here. I’ve even rolled chopped macadamia nuts into pineapple cake and dipped them into white chocolate. Whatever you do, have fun!” —Recipe contributor Anne Powers, Munford, Alabama

Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Red Velvet Cheesecake

Red velvet cake is wonderfully tangy and chocolatey, and cheesecake is rich, dense and delicious. Combine the two, and you have a knockout dessert. The shockingly red cheesecake is beautifully suited for Valentine’s Day.

“Festive and oh, so good, this cheesecake will become a fixture on your Christmas dessert menu. The red velvet filling is spiked with cocoa, topped with cream cheese frosting and baked in a chocolate cookie crumb crust.” —Recipe contributor Karen Dively, Chapin, South Carolina

Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

I love how much these cupcakes truly mimic a cheesecake, from the cheesecake-like frosting down to the graham cracker crust. This is a great way to switch things up if your sweetheart is known to order a slice of cheesecake from the menu.

“You can have your cake and eat it guilt-free with these taste-tempting treats. The petite graham cracker “crust,” chopped fresh berries and cream cheese frosting offer all the goodness of cheesecake in manageable portions.” —Recipe contributor Jill Drury, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pops Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pops

If your Valentine loves all things Starbucks, recreate their favorite Starbucks drink at home and serve it with these cake balls that look straight from the store’s display case. It’s a really easy way to show how much you know them, and the pink cake pops are perfectly on theme for the holiday.

“When I’m looking for a snack when I go to my favorite coffee shop, their cake pops are usually what I grab first. The flavors change throughout the year, but they’re always delicious.” —Recipe contributor Michelle Clair, Seattle, Washington

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Valentine Heart Brownies

Doctor up a tray of basic brownies with a sweet little surprise inside. Simply cut out a heart shape in the center of each slice and fill it in with dyed frosting.

“Steal hearts this Valentine’s Day with brownies that have cute frosting centers. They’re simply irresistible.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Homemade ice cream has to be one of the most impressive desserts you can make someone, and this cheesecake ice cream is an absolute dream. Dust off your ice cream machine and start hulling fresh strawberries.

“When I got my ice cream maker, a friend shared her dreamy freezy cheesecake recipe. For guests, I scoop this into tart shells.” —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

PERRY SANTANACHOTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate-Avocado Mousse

Wholesome, quick and seriously easy, this gluten-free and vegan chocolate avocado mousse is for anyone who’s trying to be a little more health-conscious this year. And, no, you can’t even taste the avocado!

“I have rheumatoid arthritis, and I follow a special diet to help manage the symptoms. This avocado mousse is simple to make and tastes heavenly. The avocados can help reduce inflammation.” —Recipe contributor Kelly Kirby, Mill Bay, Nova Scotia

JULIA HARTBECK FOR TASTE OF HOME

Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake

An Oreo crust, chocolate mousse and white chocolate mousse make up the three decadent layers of this light-yet-completely-rich mousse cake. Don’t be intimidated by the use of gelatin. It’s an easy ingredient to work with, and it’s always fun to learn new baking techniques!

“When it’s too hot to bake something sweet but you’re craving chocolate, my chocolaty mousse tart is all you need. Stack up the layers any way you like.” —Recipe contributor Samantha Hernandez, Vacaville, California

TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry Icebox Cake

Those located in warmer regions might want to turn to a cooling dessert to serve on Valentine’s Day. Prepare this strawberry icebox cake the day before or the morning of serving so the graham crackers have a chance to soften a bit and the flavors can meld together.

“Quick and easy, this refreshing, make-ahead freezer dessert is perfect for using up those fresh summer berries. Filled to the brim with cream for a smooth texture, you’ll find soft graham crackers and sweet strawberries layered inside. Top the cake with sliced strawberries for a beautiful finish.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Cool Whip Cookies Recipe photo by Nancy Mock for Taste of Home

Cool Whip Cookies

Novice bakers can still pull an impressive tray of cookies out of the oven for a delicious Valentine’s Day dessert or gift. And, with just four ingredients, you’ll hardly break the bank on these DIY bakes.

“Looking for a quick and easy cookie recipe? With just four ingredients, chocolaty Cool Whip cookies may just be the easiest recipe of them all! The dough is very sticky—chilling it briefly before scooping makes it easier to work with.” —Recipe contributor Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Chocolate-covered strawberries are the Valentine’s Day dessert. Dip a whole batch of these and serve them with your favorite wine. You could even decorate them further with Valentine’s Day-themed sprinkles, or scatter chopped nuts on top.

“A bumper crop of berries turned into a real treat when I dipped them in chocolate! I like to make these chocolate-covered strawberries before dinner and put them in the fridge, so they’re ready when we’re finished eating. My family can’t get enough of these chocolate strawberries.” —Recipe contributor Valerie Gee, Depew, New York

TASTE OF HOME

Strawberry-Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

This strawberry-rhubarb upside-down cake is nothing short of mesmerizing. Although rhubarb and strawberries aren’t in season yet, frozen rhubarb is totally fine, and the strawberry flavor comes from gelatin. Mini marshmallows are the sweet surprise!

“I prepare this colorful dessert quite often in the late spring or summer when fresh rhubarb is abundant. I make this rhubarb cake with cake mix and take it to church potlucks. People actually line up for a piece.” —Recipe contributor Bonnie Krogman, Thompson Falls, Montana

TASTE OF HOME

Raspberry-White Chocolate Lava Cakes

For those who really want the Valentine’s Day lava cake experience without any of the dark chocolate, this white chocolate-raspberry version has your name all over it. It’s just as simple and straightforward, with the molten lava core that’s completely irresistable.

“There is something so magical about a warm, luscious lava cake. Cutting into it and seeing the warm chocolate come rushing out always brings me joy. I wanted to see if I could do the same thing with white chocolate. Once successful, I decided to add a sprinkling of fresh raspberries.” —Maggie Knoebel, Taste of Home Associate Recipe Editor & Tester

Slow-Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe photo by Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Crock-Pot Lava Cake

If you don’t own mini ramekins, you can still make a gorgeous lava cake in your slow cooker. It’s also perfect to throw together right before you start cooking your Valentine’s Day dinner, and it’ll be ready as soon as the plates are clean. Perfect timing.

“Everyone who tries this dessert falls in love with it. Using a slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze.” —Recipe contributor Latona Dwyer, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies Recipe photo by Leticia Almeida for Taste of Home

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Red velvet’s flavor shines through in these cookies, with white chocolate chips dispersed throughout to mimic the cream cheese component. Roll the cookie dough balls in confectioners’ sugar before baking so they can take on the crackly effect.

“This recipe is special to me because it is totally original, my very own! The cookies are firm but not crunchy on the outside, and they’re tender inside. The powdered sugar makes them melt in your mouth.” —Recipe contributor Jane Rundell, Alanson, Michigan

CHRISTINE MA FOR TASTE OF HOME

Vegan Chocolate Mousse

This wholesome chocolate mousse is completely vegan and gluten-free. Unexpected ingredients like figs, avocadoes and chickpeas work together to whip up a mousse that’s full of body and flavor.

“My son is allergic to dairy and eggs, so I created this silky vegan chocolate mousse recipe that he could enjoy. It’s also gluten-free and grain-free. If you’re having company over, it can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator.” —Recipe contributor Sarah Meuser, New Milford, Connecticut

TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

Between their perfect shade of Valentine’s Day red and gorgeous heart shape, these whoopie pies make an excellent dessert for the holiday. Make sure you’re familiar with how to use a piping bag so your hearts can come out perfectly.

“Baking a fun treat is a must when my four grandchildren come to stay for ‘grandma camp.’ Sometimes the grandkids help by piping the cake batter.” —Recipe contributor Linda Schend, Kenosha, Wisconsin

TASTE OF HOME

Fritters with Lemon Mousse and Strawberries

Looking for a dessert that a white tablecloth restaurant would serve? These fritters with lemon mousse and fresh strawberries should definitely be on your menu. They’re the perfect ending to a gorgeous at-home steak dinner on Valentine’s Day.

“Deep-fried fritters are wonderful on their own, but they become over-the-top amazing with a creamy lemon mousse and sweet strawberries. Raspberries and blueberries yield equally good results.” —Recipe contributor Shannon Bell, Woodstock, Georgia

Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Coffee Cakes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Coffee Cakes

Those looking to make the entirety of Valentine’s Day special for their loved one can start the day on the right foot with these heart-shaped cinnamon coffee cakes. Instead of waking up at the crack of dawn, make the dough the night before, then shape and bake it in the morning.

“I enjoy making this lovely coffee cake for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day and other special occasions. I found the recipe more than 30 years ago, and I’ve been making it ever since. The delicious treat is a hit with family and friends.” -Recipe contributor Norma Hammond, Leland, Iowa

TASTE OF HOME

Valentine Cutouts

I love this unexpected gelatin dessert for Valentine’s Day. Remove any thought of vintage gelatin molds; thanks to milk and instant vanilla pudding, these cutouts are rich, creamy and full of flavor.

“Cool, fruity and creamy, these gelatin valentine cut outs are noticeably richer than plain gelatin. They’re a fun finger food that can be easily cut into whichever shape you’d like for any holiday or theme.” —Recipe contributor Annette Ellyson, Carolina, West Virginia

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Pillowy-soft and oozing with red velvet flavor, these cinnamon rolls are a delicious start to Valentine’s Day. Swap the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze if desired.

“Turn a box of red velvet cake mix into this easy dessert—or breakfast! The icing tastes good and makes a pretty contrast with the rolls.” —Recipe contributor Erin Wright, Wallace, Kansas

TASTE OF HOME

Chocolate Truffles Recipe

Double chocolate truffles sound like a complete luxury, but no one has to know that you only spent about 20 minutes on them. Serve the truffles with two glasses of Champagne for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day dessert.

“Here’s a delicious holiday treat that’s very rich and chocolaty.” —Recipe contributor Ruth Gordon, Lakewood, New York

Dipped Cherry Cookies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Dipped Cherry Cookies

These bright pink beauties are perfectly festive for Valentine’s Day. Bake a batch for a Valentine’s Day office potluck, Galentine’s party or as a special dessert for your true Valentine.

“Our seven children and four grandkids voted this festive, flavorful cookie a “keeper.” We gave a batch to our mail carrier, in thanks for trudging through so much snow, and she asked for the recipe.” —Recipe contributor Ruth Anne Dale, Titusville, Pennsylvania

Strawberry Heart Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Strawberry Heart Brownies

We’ve saved the easiest for last! Bake up your best brownie recipe, then hull a few strawberries and cut them into 1/4-inch slices. Cut the inside top of each slice a little more to mimic a heart, then scatter them all over your brownies.

“Dress up your favorite brownie recipe for Valentine’s Day! Adding heart-shaped strawberries gives them festive flair.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Valentine’s Day Desserts FAQ

What is traditionally eaten on Valentine’s Day?

Couples traditionally eat elegant dinners on Valentine’s Day, followed by a rich dessert like truffles, lava cake or mousse. Usually, there’s a pop of red in the form or raspberries or strawberries, or a heart-shaped component to evoke the holiday’s sentiment.

What is the most popular Valentine’s Day food?

The most popular Valentine’s Day food is chocolate-covered strawberries. These little morsels are often associated with Valentine’s Day and are a popular treat to make or buy for a Valentine.

What is your go-to Valentine’s Day sweet treat?

My go-to Valentine’s Day sweet treat is a holiday-themed version of my partner’s favorite dessert. That way, I know they’ll genuinely love whatever I bake, and the slight Valentine’s Day twist makes it on-theme for the holiday. For example, if your sweetheart usually gravitates towards lighter desserts, they’ll love our light-pink raspberry mousse on slide 14.