Why Make This Recipe
Valentine Ganache Cookies are perfect for any celebration of love, especially Valentine’s Day! These delightful treats combine rich chocolate and a sweet raspberry twist, making them an ideal gift for that special someone. The cookies are soft, filled with creamy ganache, and decorated to impress. They are a fun and tasty way to show you care, whether for a partner, friend, or family member.
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:
- Prepare each dough flavor separately. Start by creaming the butter and sugars together until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Stir in the dry ingredients for each dough.
- Chill both doughs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Scoop the dough into balls and press a well in each cookie.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- After baking, re-press the centers of the cookies while they are still warm. Let them cool completely.
- For the ganache, pour hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth.
- Fill the cookie centers with ganache and decorate as desired.
- Allow the cookies to set at room temperature or chill them briefly before serving.
How to Serve Valentine Ganache Cookies
Serve these cookies on a festive plate for a sweet treat at any gathering. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also pack them nicely in a box to give as a gift!
How to Store Valentine Ganache Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you wish to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving!
Tips to Make Valentine Ganache Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to mix well.
- Experiment with various toppings to add a personal touch.
- If using freeze-dried raspberry powder, adjust the amount based on how strong you want the raspberry flavor.
Variation
You can substitute the freeze-dried raspberry powder with other flavors like matcha powder for a green cookie or crushed nuts for added crunch! Similarly, use different types of chocolate for the ganache based on your preference.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?
A: Yes, feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor!
Q2: What if I don’t have freeze-dried raspberries?
A: You can use pink food coloring instead or leave out the coloring for traditional chocolate cookies.
Q3: How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the dough and freeze it in balls. When you’re ready to bake, just allow them to thaw for a bit before baking as directed.
Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Valentine Ganache Cookies!