Valentine Ganache Cookies
Indulge in Decadence
Have you ever bitten into a cookie that felt like a hug for your taste buds? Valentine Ganache Cookies are just that — rich, fudgy delights with a creamy ganache center that’ll have your heart racing. Perfect for a little romance or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies are simple to whip up and absolutely irresistible. Ready to impress? Let’s dive in!
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll adore these cookies for a few sweet reasons:
- Easy cleanup: Who wants a mountain of dishes after baking? Not me! These cookies come together in one bowl.
- Affordable ingredients: You probably already have most of the stuff in your pantry, so no need for a bank-breaking shopping spree.
- Family-friendly: Kids will love getting involved, and who could say no to a cookie with a gooey center? 🍪
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
For the chocolate cookie dough:
- 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
- ÂĽ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
For the pink cookie dough:
- 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
- ÂĽ teaspoon salt
- 2 – 3 teaspoons freeze-dried raspberry powder or pink food coloring
For the ganache filling:
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- Âľ cup (130 g) dark or white chocolate chips, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon (14 g) butter (optional)
Optional toppings:
- Freeze-dried raspberries
- Chocolate squares
- Heart sprinkles
- Melted white chocolate for drizzling
Directions
- Cream together the butter and sugars in separate bowls until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well before stirring in the dry ingredients for each dough.
- Chill both doughs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. (Impatience might just ruin the surprise!)
- Scoop the dough into balls and press a well in the center of each ball.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- After baking, re-press the centers while the cookies are still warm. Let them cool completely.
- For the ganache, pour hot cream over the chocolate, stirring until smooth.
- Fill the cooled cookie centers with ganache and decorate as desired.
- Let the cookies set at room temperature or chill briefly before serving.
How to Make Valentine Ganache Cookies (Overview)
Baking these cookies is as heartwarming as sharing them! Start by creaming butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Don’t forget to chill the dough — trust me, it makes all the difference. While they bake, you’ll prepare the ganache that’ll fill those little centers of joy. Pro tip: Resist the urge to skip the chilling; it’s vital for achieving that perfect consistency!
How to Serve Valentine Ganache Cookies
Imagine serving these stunning cookies on a bright plate, drizzled with melted white chocolate and topped with vibrantly colored heart sprinkles. The contrast of the rich chocolate and sweet raspberry notes is simply heavenly. Pair with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a cozy treat that looks as fabulous as it tastes. Anyone up for cookie decorating?
How to Store Valentine Ganache Cookies
These cookies hold their charm well! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to extend their life, freeze them for about three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll be as delightful as the day you baked them.
Tips to Make Valentine Ganache Cookies
- Don’t skip the chilling. It really helps manage the structure of the cookies!
- Use high-quality chocolate for ganache; your taste buds will thank you.
- Experiment with colors by adding a bit more raspberry powder for a bolder hue.
- Mix and match sprinkles and toppings for a fun twist each time you bake!
Variation
Take these cookies up a notch! Swap out the fillings with different flavored ganache, or make it vegan by using plant-based butter and aquafaba instead of egg. You can even switch the cocoa powder for carob powder for a unique spin.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.
What should I do if I can’t find freeze-dried raspberry powder?
No worries! You can use pink food coloring instead for the pink dough or opt for regular cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
How can I ensure my ganache doesn’t seize?
Heat the cream gently and make sure to stir well when blending it with chocolate. Keep it smooth, and it’ll be perfect!
đź“Ś Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Valentine Ganache Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Cream together the butter and sugars in separate bowls until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well before stirring in the dry ingredients for each dough.
- Chill both doughs in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Scoop the dough into balls and press a well in the center of each ball.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- After baking, re-press the centers while the cookies are still warm. Let them cool completely.
- For the ganache, pour hot cream over the chocolate, stirring until smooth.
- Fill the cooled cookie centers with ganache and decorate as desired.
- Let the cookies set at room temperature or chill briefly before serving.
