Name: Valentine Ganache Cookies: Soft‑Hearted Chocolate and Raspberry Treats for Sweet Moments
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; Raspberry jam (about 1/4 cup)

Why You’ll Love Valentine Ganache Cookies: Soft‑Hearted Chocolate and Raspberry Treats for Sweet Moments Recipe

These cookies are more than your average chocolate bite — their combination of textures and flavors makes them truly stand out:

Soft, tender cookie bases with a creamy ganache center
Two flavor variations: rich chocolate and subtle raspberry‑pink dough
Visually impressive and perfect for gifting or celebrations
Easy to customize with toppings like freeze‑dried raspberries or heart sprinkles

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate Cookie Dough
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
large egg
vanilla extract
all‑purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
baking soda
salt
espresso powder (optional)

Pink/Raspberry Cookie Dough
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
large egg
vanilla extract
all‑purpose flour
baking soda
salt
freeze‑dried raspberry powder or pink coloring

Ganache Filling
heavy cream
dark or white chocolate chips
butter (optional)

Optional Toppings
freeze‑dried raspberries
chocolate squares
heart sprinkles
melted white chocolate for drizzling

Directions

In separate bowls, prepare the chocolate and pink cookie doughs by creaming the butter with sugars, then adding egg and vanilla.
In each bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; add cocoa powder to one bowl and raspberry powder or coloring to the other, then mix until incorporated.
Chill both doughs for about 30 minutes to make shaping easier.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop dough into balls and gently press a thumb or spoon into the center of each to form a well.
Bake for about 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
While still warm, re‑press the centers to deepen the wells. Let cookies cool completely.
Heat the cream until steaming, pour over chocolate chips, let sit briefly, then stir to make smooth ganache.
Spoon or pipe ganache into cookie centers and add optional toppings.
Allow the ganache to set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 20 cookies
Prep time: ~30 minutes
Cook time: ~12 minutes
Chill time: ~30 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour 12 minutes

Variations

Swap the ganache for raspberry jam or a cream cheese frosting for a fruity or tangy twist
Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter flavor profile
Mix chocolate and raspberry doughs for a marbled effect
Add crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a different berry flavor
Drizzle cookies with colored icing instead of melted chocolate for themed celebrations

Storage/Reheating

Store finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for up to a week; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture. Unfilled cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw and then fill with ganache when ready to serve. To warm cookies, heat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

What makes these Valentine Ganache Cookies special?

They combine two distinct cookie doughs with a rich ganache center and optional decorations, making them both tasty and visually stunning.

Can I use jam instead of ganache?

Yes — raspberry or other fruit jam can be used for a lighter, fruitier filling.

How do I get the ganache smooth and glossy?

Heat the cream until steaming and pour over the chocolate, letting it sit before stirring to achieve a glossy finish.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes — prepare the dough in advance and chill; you can freeze unbaked dough balls for later baking.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps them hold their shape.

Can I make these gluten‑free?

Yes — substitute all‑purpose flour with a gluten‑free flour blend.

What variations can I try?

Try different toppings, fillings (like white chocolate ganache), or add espresso powder to deepen chocolate flavor.

Are these cookies kid‑friendly to make?

Yes — kids can help with mixing, shaping, and decorating.

Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?

Yes — milk chocolate works; just note the flavor will be sweeter and softer.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate; unfilled frozen cookies can be stored longer.

Conclusion

Valentine Ganache Cookies are a delightful and festive dessert that combines rich chocolate and raspberry flavors with creamy ganache centers. Perfect for special occasions or cozy baking days, they’re easy to customize and sure to impress anyone who tries them.