As the calendar inches closer to February 14th, the air is filled with the sweet promise of love and wholesome treats. I found myself in the kitchen one sunny afternoon, enveloped by the warm aroma of melting butter and sugar, and soon, my creation was born—Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups. Picture this: a soft, tender cookie enveloping a gooey Hershey's Hug, all dressed up in festive colors and sprinkles!
These delightful cookie cups are not just quick to whip up, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, but they also strike the perfect balance between fun and indulgence. Whether you're prepping a surprise for someone special or looking to spice up your baking routine, these treats will satisfy your sweet tooth while spreading love in every bite. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe that will undoubtedly impress family and friends alike!
Why You'll Love This Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups
- These Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are incredibly easy to make, requiring just 35 minutes from prep to serving.
- The flavor combination of buttery cookie and sweet Hershey's Hug is truly irresistible and will have you coming back for more.
- Their vibrant colors and festive sprinkles make them visually appealing, perfect for any celebration of love.
- Plus, these cookie cups are versatile enough for any occasion, so you can enjoy them beyond just Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Sugar cookie mix – a 17.5 oz package provides the sweet, buttery base for these delightful treats.
- Salted butter – ½ cup melted adds richness and a lovely flavor that complements the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons help bind the mixture together for the perfect cookie texture.
- Large egg – use one at room temperature for better emulsification in the dough.
- Pink or red food coloring – a few drops will transform your cookie cups into festive treats that are perfect for Valentine's Day!
For the Filling
- Hershey’s Hugs – 24–26 unwrapped candies bring a gooey, chocolate surprise to the center of each cookie cup.
Optional Toppings
- Decorative sprinkles – add a sprinkle of festive color for an extra touch of joy and customization to your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups.
How to Make Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a mini cupcake pan by spraying it with cooking spray. This ensures that your cookie cups will slide right out after baking!
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Combine in a large bowl the sugar cookie mix, melted butter, flour, egg, and food coloring until just combined. The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky, ready for shaping.
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Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it using your hands or a rolling pin. Place a Hershey’s Hug in the center. This hidden treat is what makes each cookie cup a delightful surprise!
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Wrap the dough around the candy to form a ball. Fix any cracks along the surface to ensure even baking and a beautiful final product.
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Place each dough ball upright into the prepared pan. This will give them their cup shape while they bake, so arrange them nicely for even baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden. Don’t worry if they puff up a bit; they’ll settle as they cool.
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Remove from the oven and gently press decorative sprinkles into the tops of each cookie cup while they’re warm. This will help the sprinkles stick and add a pop of color!
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Cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan and serving. This rest period helps ensure they hold their shape and are easy to enjoy.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups Variations
Feel free to get creative with these variations that will enhance your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the sugar cookie mix with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. Just be sure to select a mix designed for cookies!
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the Hershey’s Hugs for your favorite chocolate kisses or even a caramel-filled chocolate. Imagine that delightful burst of flavor melting in your mouth!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch. This adds texture and a lovely contrast to the sweetness!
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Coconut Twist: Stir in some shredded coconut (about ¼ cup) for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the cookie base.
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Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the dough for an aromatic twist. This little kick elevates the overall flavor profile and makes them truly special.
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Berry Burst: Fold in mini chocolate chips or freeze-dried raspberries for an added layer of flavor and color. These fruity notes make every bite a surprise!
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Meringue Topping: Top each cookie cup with a dollop of meringue before baking for a delightful, chewy topping. This sweet layer adds a whimsical touch and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate!
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Premium Drizzle: Finish off with a drizzle of white or dark chocolate over the tops for a decadent touch. This makes your cookie cups look stunning and adds a sweet finish that will wow your loved ones.
What to Serve with Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups?
Delight your guests and elevate your celebration with perfect pairings for these charming cookie cups.
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Creamy Milkshake: A rich milkshake complements the sweetness and adds a creamy texture, perfect for the ultimate indulgence.
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Fresh Strawberries: Juicy strawberries offer a refreshing contrast, enhancing the dessert while echoing the romantic vibes of Valentine’s Day.
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Sparkling Wine: Celebrate with a glass of bubbly! The effervescence of sparkling wine cuts through the sweetness, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Warm Coffee: The bitter notes of freshly brewed coffee balance the sugary cookie cups, creating a delightful flavor spectrum that coffee lovers will adore.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience when paired with warm cookie cups.
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Fruit Salsa: A zesty fruit salsa combines various fruits to add a fresh and tangy note, brightening the dessert experience and providing vibrant colors.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For extra indulgence, drizzle warm chocolate sauce on top. It takes these cookie cups to the next level with decadent chocolatey goodness.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a fluffy touch, enhancing the cookie cups while keeping the overall vibe soft and romantic.
These delightful accompaniments will transform your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups into an unforgettable dessert experience!
How to Store and Freeze Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups fresh for up to 3 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep cookie cups in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure they are in a sealed container to maintain softness.
Freezer: Freeze the cookie cups for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
Reheating: To bring back the delightful gooeyness, reheat cookie cups in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or until warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are ideal for those busy weekends when you want to whip up something special without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, scoop out the chilled dough, wrap it around the Hershey’s Hugs, and proceed according to the original recipe instructions. Alternatively, you can bake the cookie cups in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Just sprinkle the candies and let them sit for a bit to warm up before serving; they'll be just as delightful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Be sure to use room temperature egg in the cookie dough for better mixing and a smoother texture in your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups.
- When wrapping the dough around the Hershey’s Hug, seal any cracks gently to prevent the candy from leaking during baking.
- For perfectly shaped cookie cups, ensure your dough balls are well-formed and placed upright in the pan before baking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden to achieve that perfect soft center.
Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sugar cookie mix?
Look for a sugar cookie mix that has simple ingredients and no artificial flavors. A good quality mix can help achieve that rich, buttery taste you want for your Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups. Additionally, checking the expiration date ensures the mix hasn’t lost its potency.
How should I store Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups?
Store your cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. This helps maintain their softness and freshness.
Can I freeze Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. To do this, make sure each cookie cup is fully cooled. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.
What should I do if my cookie cups spread too much while baking?
If your cookie cups spread too much, it might be due to the dough being too warm or the egg being too large. Make sure the dough is cold before baking. If you encounter this, try chilling the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before scooping and baking to prevent excessive spreading.
Are these cookie cups safe for pets?
While Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are delicious for humans, they are not safe for pets. The sugar and chocolate found in Hershey’s Hugs can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep these treats out of your pet's reach!
Can I make these cookie cups gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups, substitute the sugar cookie mix with a gluten-free version from your local store. Just ensure the other ingredients, like flour, are also gluten-free to keep the entire recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a mini cupcake pan by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Combine in a large bowl the sugar cookie mix, melted butter, flour, egg, and food coloring until just combined.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it. Place a Hershey’s Hug in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the candy to form a ball, fixing any cracks.
- Place each dough ball upright into the prepared pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and gently press decorative sprinkles into the tops of each cookie cup while warm.
- Cool for 15 minutes before removing from the pan.
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