Easy Valentine's Desserts
Delightful homemade chocolate desserts that are easy to make and perfect for impressing loved ones on Valentine's Day.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour if needed.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder Essential for the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup sugar Regular granulated sugar; consider substitutes for lower-sugar options.
- ½ cup butter, softened Can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.
- 2 large eggs Can be replaced with flax eggs for vegan version.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder Helps with leavening.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
- Powdered sugar For dusting.
- Chocolate hearts For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand and ready to go.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the baked dessert to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting.
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes, then dust with powdered sugar and decorate with chocolate hearts.
- Serve on a platter and enjoy!
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; can be frozen for up to three months.