Valentine’s Baking Treats conjure up images of red velvet cupcakes, heart shaped cookies, and the sweet aroma of cinnamon filling the air. These moments, spent creating delicious treats with loved ones, are some of my dearest. This Valentine’s Day, let’s skip the store bought chocolates and dive into the joy of homemade goodness with easy and delightful Valentine’s Baking Treats that everyone will adore.
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Why You Will Love This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug in the form of a cinnamon roll. I remember making these every Valentine’s Day with my grandmother; the sweet, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar would fill her kitchen, creating a memory that will forever remind me of love and warmth. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for sharing with your loved ones. Plus, who can resist a warm, gooey cinnamon roll on a special day? These are a guaranteed crowd pleaser, offering comfort, flavor, and a delightful way to celebrate. You can find our classic cinnamon roll recipe here if you are craving even more.
Ingredients Needed for This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk, or as needed for desired consistency
How to Make This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Mix Ingredients: Add the melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well, then gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. Pro tip: Placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off!) can help it rise faster.
Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough.
Roll It Up: Starting from one long end, tightly roll the dough into a log.
Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. Space them evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are slightly cooled, generously frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
How to Serve This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are perfect warm, straight from the oven! Consider serving them with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an extra touch of Valentine's Day flair, sprinkle some red and pink sprinkles on top of the frosting. You can also arrange them on a pretty serving platter to share with loved ones. Another great option is to drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted rolls for an even more decadent Valentine’s dessert recipe.
How to Store This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To freeze, wrap the un frosted rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds for a warm, gooey treat!
Tips to Make This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don't have cream cheese, you can use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. For a vegan option, use plant based milk, butter, and cream cheese.
- Success Tips: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for a successful rise.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Over kneading the dough can result in tough rolls.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: Using softened butter for the filling ensures it spreads evenly.
Helpful Notes for This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
- Yeast Considerations: If your milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, so ensure it's just warm to the touch.
- Flour Type: All purpose flour works best, but you can use bread flour for a slightly chewier roll.
- Baking Dish: Make sure your baking dish is greased well to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Variation of This Valentine’s Baking Treats Recipe
Consider swirling in some chopped pecans or walnuts along with the cinnamon sugar filling for added texture and flavor. For a different flavor profile, try using a different spice, such as cardamom or nutmeg, in the filling. Create a fruit version by adding a layer of cooked apples or berries before rolling up the dough. Add a simple strawberry glaze for a truly romantic Valentine’s dessert recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy Valentine’s Day baking treats?
Red velvet cupcakes, heart-shaped cookies, and chocolate-covered strawberries are all easy and festive options for Valentine’s Day baking. These treats require minimal ingredients and are fun to make with loved ones.
How can I make my Valentine’s baking treats extra special?
Use high-quality ingredients like gourmet chocolate and fresh berries. Personalize your treats with custom decorations, such as icing or sprinkles, reflecting your affection for the recipient. Don’t forget to package your creations in a beautiful box or tin!
What if I am short on time for Valentine’s baking?
Consider simple recipes like no-bake cookies or quick breads that require minimal effort. Pre-made ingredients like store-bought cookie dough can also be used to speed up the baking process while still enjoying the fun of creating something homemade.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day is all about sharing love, warmth, and meaningful moments—and these Valentine’s Baking Treats capture all of that in the most delicious way. From the soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls to the rich cream cheese frosting, every bite feels comforting, homemade, and full of heart. Baking these treats isn’t just about the final dessert; it’s about slowing down, enjoying the process, and creating memories with the people you love.
Whether you’re surprising your partner, baking with family, or simply treating yourself, this recipe proves that homemade sweets are always more special than anything store-bought. Light the oven, let the aroma of cinnamon fill your kitchen, and turn this Valentine’s Day into a celebration of love—one warm, gooey bite at a time. Pinterest ❤️
Valentine’s Baking Treats: 3 Easy Dessert Recipes
Warm and gooey cinnamon rolls with a rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for sharing the love on Valentine’s Day.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition:
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 50g
Fat: 15g
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk, or as needed for desired consistency
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the melted butter, remaining sugar, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well, then gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
- Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one long end, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 1 inch thick rolls. Place them evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the rolls are slightly cooled, generously frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm. Store leftovers air tight at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to a week or freeze.