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This Valentine’s Day, why not make something truly special in the kitchen? Whether you're baking a thoughtful gift or a sweet treat to share, these recipes—featured in our Essential Bread and Patisserie course—are sure to impress.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to step into the kitchen and create something special. Whether you’re planning a gift or a dessert to share, here is some inspiration for you to draw from. All recipes and skills used are taught on our Essential Bread and Patisserie course.
Truffles are surprisingly simple to make and require just two main ingredients: chocolate and cream. Start by heating cream until just steaming, then pour it over finely chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth, and let it cool until firm enough to handle.
Use a teaspoon to scoop out portions and roll them into balls. Keep your hands cool by rinsing them under cold water if the mixture softens too quickly. Coat the truffles in cocoa powder, nuts, or even sprinkles to add some variety. For a Valentine’s design, try rolling it through some freeze-dried crushed raspberries.
There are so many recipes to choose from depending on the style of brownie you like: fudgy, chewy, or cakey. To add a Valentine’s twist, swirl raspberry jam or sprinkle in some white chocolate chunks before baking. If you want something a bit more indulgent, add salted caramel on top and for that crunch, some crushed pretzels.
Chocolate pizza is a fun way to combine dessert with creativity. Use a baked cookie base or pre-made pastry as the crust. Spread melted chocolate evenly over the surface or chocolate spread, then top with fruits, marshmallows, or crushed biscuits.
To avoid a soggy base, make sure any fruit toppings are patted dry before adding. Let the pizza cool to set the chocolate before slicing it into wedges. Who said you can’t have dessert for dinner?
Meringue kisses are light, crisp, and easy to make. Whisk egg whites until soft peaks form, then slowly add sugar a tablespoon at a time while continuing to whisk until stiff and glossy.
Pipe small swirls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one. Bake at a low temperature until the meringues are firm to the touch. Add a drop of food colouring or flavour extracts like vanilla for a personal touch.
Pair your meringue kisses with smooth whipped cream and top with cut strawberries for a deconstructed Eton Mess.
Making marshmallows from scratch is easier than it sounds. Start by dissolving sugar in water with a splash of liquid glucose, then heat it to a soft ball stage. Pour the hot syrup into a bowl of bloomed gelatin while whisking at high speed. Keep mixing until the mixture thickens and becomes fluffy.
Spread the marshmallow mixture into a pan dusted with powdered sugar and cornstarch, then let it set. Cut into squares or use a heart-shaped cutter, and dip them in chocolate if desired.
