If you are looking for a heartwarming treat to share on a special day, this Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with the perfect blend of semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, vibrant Valentine’s M&M’s, and festive sprinkles, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Crisp on the edges with a soft and chewy center, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into a magical taste experience. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or just indulging yourself, these cookies bring a joyful pop of color and flavor to any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the texture, flavor, and festive look of these cookies. Each component contributes something special — from the richness of the butter and brown sugar to the crunchy sweetness of the Valentine’s M&M’s and sprinkles. The beauty of this simple list is how the ingredients come together to create such a joyous treat.
- 1 1/2 cups flour: Provides the structure for your cookies, creating that perfect soft chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to be fluffy and light.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb to every bite.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and depth with its caramel notes.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Gives a subtle sweetness and helps with spreading.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For that classic, melty chocolate goodness.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds a creamy contrast to the dark chocolate.
- 1 cup Valentine’s M&M’s: Injects festive color and a fun crunch.
- 3/4 cup Valentine’s Day sprinkles: Makes each cookie sparkle with holiday cheer.
How to Make Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature by the time your dough is ready. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking and to make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. This dry mix sets the foundation for your cookie dough’s perfect texture and helps keep the flavors balanced.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a standing mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter with both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture turns fluffy and well combined. This step is where the magic starts—fluffing the butter and sugar traps air that will add lightness to the cookies.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and pure vanilla extract until smooth and incorporated, creating a rich and fragrant base for the dough.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the dry flour mixture, beating gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies rather than soft, tender ones.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Sprinkles
Now for the fun part—fold in the semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, along with the Valentine’s M&M’s and sprinkles. Adding these last ensures they stay whole and maintain their delightful texture and color in the final cookie.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Use a medium ice cream scooper to portion the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool completely. This step is important because the cookies continue to set as they cool, giving you that perfect chewy texture we all love. Then, dig in and savor the festive flavors!
How to Serve Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, dust your cookies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle melted white chocolate over the top. Fresh raspberries or strawberries placed nearby add a natural sweetness that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk is a classic choice that never fails. Alternatively, serve alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate for a cozy contrast that brightens the Valentine’s Day spirit.
Creative Ways to Present
Display your batch of Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe on a charming tiered dessert stand or wrap several in clear cellophane tied with a red ribbon for delightful homemade gifts. You can also sandwich some with strawberry or raspberry jam in between for an elevated twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their freshness and softness. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their festive appearance.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw slightly on the counter before baking as directed to enjoy fresh cookies any time.
Reheating
To bring back that warm, freshly baked feel, pop a cookie or two in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This melts the chocolate chips just right and revives their gooey charm.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Valentine’s M&M’s for other candies?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any colorful candy you love to personalize your cookies. Just keep in mind the size and texture, as some candies may melt differently in the oven.
What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
If white chocolate chips aren’t on hand, you can increase the semi-sweet chocolate chips or try milk chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier flavor. Each version adds its own delicious twist.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, you can freeze fully baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat gently to enjoy them like freshly baked.
How can I make these cookies extra chewy?
For an even chewier texture, try using melted butter instead of softened and add an extra egg yolk. Also, slightly underbake by about a minute to keep them soft in the center.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of the specified flour?
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is versatile and perfect for these cookies. Using a different type of flour may change the texture and spreading, so sticking to all-purpose is recommended for best results.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is like giving yourself and your loved ones a warm, delicious hug. It’s fun, festive, and absolutely mouthwatering, perfect for sharing joy on Valentine’s Day or anytime you want a little sweetness in your life. So roll up your sleeves and dive in—these cookies are sure to become a treasured favorite! Happy baking!
Print
Valentine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these festive Valentines Chocolate Chip Cookies, bursting with semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, colorful Valentine’s M&M’s, and festive sprinkles. Perfectly soft and chewy, these cookies are an ideal sweet treat to share with your loved ones on Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup Valentine’s M&M’s
- 3/4 cup Valentine’s Day sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking your cookies evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a standing mixer, beat the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and pure vanilla extract until fully combined, enhancing the dough’s flavor and texture.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed, mixing just until all flour is combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, Valentine’s M&M’s, and Valentine’s Day sprinkles, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Scoop Dough: Using a medium ice cream scooper or cookie scoop, portion out cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart for room to spread.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown while the centers remain soft.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets to set their shape and texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve your delightful Valentines Chocolate Chip Cookies and enjoy sharing these festive treats!
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and allow to cool on the baking sheet.
- Use room temperature butter and egg for better mixing and texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- The M&M’s add both color and extra sweetness, but you can substitute with any colorful candy or omit for a more traditional cookie.
- If you prefer, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
