Are you looking for a sweet way to say “I love you” this winter? These Valentine ganache cookies are the perfect way to show your heart. They are rich, buttery, and so easy to make with your family.
There is nothing like the smell of cocoa on a chilly February afternoon. These treats deliver a deep chocolate flavor in every single bite. Your kitchen will feel warm and inviting while they bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it looks fancy but stays simple. You get a deep chocolate flavor without any complicated steps. They are ideal for a romantic date night at home.
Kids love helping with the thumbprint part of the process. It is a great way to get them involved in holiday prep. Plus, these cookies use mostly basic pantry staples you already have.
Simple Method
You start by making a simple cocoa dough. Then, you just press a little well into each one. The silky ganache filling comes together in minutes on your stove. Beginners can master this with no trouble at all.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These cookies use simple ingredients that create a very rich result.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for ganache
- Heart-shaped sprinkles for decoration
Step-by-Step
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press a thumb or small measuring spoon into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until set.
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it reaches a simmer, then pour over the chopped dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon butter.
- Let the ganache sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Spoon the warm ganache into the center of each cooled cookie.
- Top with heart-shaped sprinkles and allow the ganache to set at room temperature.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these warm with a cold glass of milk. They look beautiful arranged on a festive red or pink platter. Set the table and enjoy them with your favorite person for dessert.
You can also pack them into small boxes for school treats. They travel well once the ganache has fully set. They are a guaranteed hit at any winter potluck.
Keep It Fresh
Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, keep them in the fridge instead. Make the cookies ahead and fill them the next day to save time.
Recipe Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for the smoothest dough consistency.
- Don’t skip the salt as it balances the rich chocolate.
- Use a half-teaspoon measuring spoon for perfectly round indentations.
- Avoid overbaking or the shortbread base will become too dry.
- For Valentine’s Day, use extra red and pink sprinkles.
- Chop your chocolate very finely so it melts quickly and evenly.
- Let the cookies cool completely before adding the warm ganache.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter ganache.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet twist.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make them allergy-friendly.
- In summer, swap the heart sprinkles for fresh raspberries.
Quick Answers
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can chill the dough for up to two days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before rolling. This makes holiday entertaining much easier.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges will look set and the surface will appear matte. They will still feel slightly soft to the touch. They firm up perfectly as they cool on the pan.
Can I freeze these cookies?
You can freeze the baked cookies without the ganache for a month. Add the fresh ganache after thawing for the best texture. It keeps the center silky and smooth.
I hope these Valentine ganache cookies bring a little extra love to your home. Give them a try and enjoy every chocolatey bite. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Valentine Ganache Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg , room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all -purpose flour
- 2/3 cup Dutch -process cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for ganache
- Heart -shaped sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press a thumb or small measuring spoon into the center of each ball to create an indentation.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until set.
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it reaches a simmer, then pour over the chopped dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon butter.
- Let the ganache sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Spoon the warm ganache into the center of each cooled cookie.
- Top with heart-shaped sprinkles and allow the ganache to set at room temperature.
