why make this recipe

Valentine Ganache Cookies are the perfect treat to share with your loved ones. With their rich chocolate flavor and beautiful pink cookie dough, these cookies not only taste great but also have a lovely appearance. They are fun to make, and the ganache filling adds an indulgent touch, making them an ideal dessert for special occasions like Valentine’s Day.

how to make Valentine Ganache Cookies

Ingredients:

Cookie Dough (Chocolate):

½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Cookie Dough (Pink):

½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2–3 teaspoons freeze-dried raspberry powder or pink food coloring

Ganache Filling:

½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
¾ cup (130 g) dark or white chocolate chips, finely chopped
1 tablespoon (14 g) butter (optional)

Toppings (Optional):

Freeze-dried raspberries
Chocolate squares
Heart sprinkles
Melted white chocolate for drizzling

Directions:

First, prepare each dough flavor separately. Start by creaming the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar.
Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, and stir until combined.
Slowly mix in the dry ingredients for both the chocolate and pink doughs until a dough forms.
Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to help it firm up.
After chilling, scoop the dough into balls and press a well in each one.
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
After baking, re-press the centers while they are warm. Let the cookies cool completely.
To create the ganache filling, pour hot heavy cream over the finely chopped chocolate. Stir until it becomes smooth and silky.
Fill the centers of each cookie with the ganache and decorate with optional toppings as desired.
Let the ganache set at room temperature, or chill the cookies briefly before serving.

how to serve Valentine Ganache Cookies

These cookies are delightful served at room temperature. They pair well with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. For an extra special touch, place them on a decorative plate and sprinkle some heart-shaped sprinkles on top for Valentine’s Day celebrations.

how to store Valentine Ganache Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warm area or want to keep them fresh for a longer time, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

tips to make Valentine Ganache Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best cookie texture.
You can adjust the amount of raspberry powder depending on how pink you want the cookie dough to be.
Do not skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies hold their shape when baking.
Experiment with different toppings to match your personal taste or theme.

variation

For a fun twist, you can swap the raspberry powder for other flavors, such as matcha powder for a green cookie, or add sprinkles to the dough for a festive look.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for the ganache if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

2. Is it possible to freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies without ganache for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before filling with ganache.

3. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce to make egg-free cookies. Just ensure it’s a suitable substitute for your baking needs.