why make this recipe

Valentine Ganache Cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones, making them an ideal treat for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. They combine rich chocolatey goodness with a delightful pink cookie, making for a visually appealing and delicious surprise. The ganache filling adds a luxurious texture, giving these cookies an extra special touch that will impress anyone you share them with.

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 softened butter with both sugars. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Stir in the dry ingredients for each dough. For the chocolate dough, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder (if using). For the pink dough, mix flour, baking soda, salt, and raspberry powder or food coloring.
Chill both doughs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
After chilling, scoop the dough into balls and press a well in the center of each one.
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. If needed, re-press the centers after baking to create a nice well for the filling.
Allow the cookies to cool completely.
To make the ganache, pour hot cream over the finely chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth. If desired, add butter for extra richness.
Fill the centers of the cooled cookies with the ganache and decorate them as you like.
Let the ganache set at room temperature or chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving.

how to serve Valentine Ganache Cookies

Serve these delicious cookies on a beautiful plate and enjoy them fresh. You can pair them with a glass of milk or a warm beverage for a comforting treat. They also make great gifts, especially when wrapped nicely for a special occasion.

how to store Valentine Ganache Cookies

To store the cookies, place them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them without the ganache filling. Just thaw them and then add the ganache when you’re ready to enjoy them.

tips to make Valentine Ganache Cookies

Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Feel free to experiment with different toppings to match your celebration theme!
You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache based on your preference.

variation

You can customize these cookies by adding nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even flavored extracts to the dough. For a fruity twist, try adding dried fruits or citrus zest.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other flavors for the cookies?
A: Yes! You can try adding different extracts or flavorings like almond or mint.

Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The edges should be set, and the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the ganache?
A: Yes, you can use coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious dairy-free ganache.

Valentine Ganache Cookies