Now that it’s finally February, Valentines Day is less than two weeks away! I understand that some people resent this holiday as a time for relationship insecurities and means for flower, greeting card, and chocolate companies to get rich by capitalizing on societal pressure. Personally, however, I cherish Valentine’s Day as a wonderful opportunity to show the people in my life how much I love them, without the pressure to buy a gift for everyone I know (as with Christmas and Hanukkah) or to have your thoughtfulness overlooked because of the overwhelming sea of presents (as with birthdays). Every year I look forward to baking goodies, decorating cards, and crafting presents as a way to show my family, girlfriends, and Goose how much they all mean to me.
So that you do not feel pressured to spend $39 for a box of Valentines Day Sprinkles Cupcakes, or splurge on a $100 box of chocolates, check out this round-up of treats that is not only cheaper, but cuter and more heartfelt than anything you could hope to buy. Whether you are looking for a special dessert recipe to make for your sweetheart, wanting to make treat boxes for your friends, or trying to find an easy snack to brighten your children’s faces, this list has you covered!
Candy melts molded into Lego ice-cube trays and topped with heart sprinkles make these the most playful treat I’ve ever seen: Lego Dude Valentines
These three-ingredient treats were a huge hit when I made them last year: Hershey’s Kiss Oreo Truffles
For the especially skilled pastry chef, these delicious rhubarb desserts will not go unappreciated: Pistachio, Roasted Rhubarb, Strawberry and White Chocolate Petits Gateaux
Here’s a a sweet cake that is as delicious as it is beautiful: Cherry Vanilla Layer Cakes
Here is a semi-healthy treat for the men in your lives: Chocolate Covered Tuxedo Strawberries
These French-inspired cookies will make any travel-junkie’s heart skip a beat: Red Velvet Valentines Day Macarons
These classic icebox cookies get a playful makeover from maraschino cherry juice and pink sanding sugar: Vanilla Bean and Cherry Swirled Icebox Cookies
For everyone who is sick of chalky-conversation hearts, here is a delicious upgrade: Homemade Marshmallow Conversation Hearts
These old-fashioned cookies get a Valentines Day make over with a new heart shape that you can fill with chocolate, jam, or marshmallow fluff: Peanut Butter and Jelly Heartprint Cookies
These petite baked doughnuts are the perfect morning treat before school or work: Mini Baked Sugar Doughnuts
What Valentines Day (or Anti Valentine’s Day) treats are you baking?