Valentine's Day Delights: Sweet Treats to Celebrate Love

Introduction:

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to show your love through thoughtful gestures and, of course, delicious treats. Whether you're indulging in a romantic dinner or simply want to spread a little joy to friends and family, these three decadent recipes ranging from a classic Valentine’s Day Layer Cake to a rich Triple Layer Vanilla Velvet Cake, and a sparkling Strawberry and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta; are all you need to make the occasion unforgettable. With the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and love, these desserts will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Valentine’s Day Layer Cake

Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in a sweet treat, and this Valentine’s Day Layer Cake will make your celebration extra special. Made with a simple yet flavorful homemade vanilla cake and topped with pink vanilla buttercream, this cake is sure to steal the spotlight.

 Though National Cake Day may fall in November, February is one of the most popular months for cake, and this charming layer cake filled with love will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're choosing this layered cake, cupcakes, or a hidden heart loaf, this homemade vanilla cake is a delicious expression of affection.

The recipe for this cake offers the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The cake's slight yellow hue, from the butter, enhances its richness, and using aluminum-free baking powder ensures the ideal taste. For the buttercream, a stand mixer or hand mixer is essential to achieve the perfect creamy, smooth texture. You’ll want to decorate your cake with smooth, glossy frosting, or add a little texture for a more rustic look. With a few tips, like using a hot spatula to smooth the frosting, and piping the decorative swirls with your favorite tip, this Valentine’s Day cake will be as beautiful as it is delicious.

INGREDIENTS

Cake Ingredients:

·        1 1/2 cups unsalted butter 12 ounces

·        1 3/4 cups granulated sugar 339 grams / 12 ounces

·        6 large eggs

·        2 teaspoons vanilla extract from vanilla beans

·        2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour sifted

·        3 teaspoons baking powder aluminum free

·        1 teaspoon salt

Buttercream Ingredients:

·        2 cups unsalted butter room temperature – 16 ounces

·        4 1/3 cups powdered sugar 1.25 pounds

·        1/2 teaspoon salt

·        2 teaspoons vanilla extract

·        1/4 cup heavy cream

·        1/8 teaspoon pink food coloring

·        Valentine's Day sprinkles

 

INSTRUCTIONS

Make The Cake:

1.      Grease two 9" round cake pans with shortening, then dust with flour. You can also line them with parchment paper or use cake release to ensure the cakes come out cleanly.

2.      Preheat the oven to 350ºF.

3.      In a large bowl, melt the butter using the microwave.

4.      Add the granulated sugar and mix together.

5.      Beat the eggs in a small bowl, then pour them into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well.

6.      Add the vanilla extract and mix again.

7.      Add the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt. Mix together until the mixture is well combined with no lumps.

8.      Pour evenly into the two prepared pans.

9.      Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cake springs back when you touch the center. Allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes, then turn the cakes out to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make The Buttercream:

1.      As the cakes are cooling, make the buttercream. Place the butter in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix on high until the butter is almost white in appearance.

2.      Add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. This is so that the sugar doesn't go flying everywhere.

3.      When you have finished adding the powdered sugar, add the vanilla extract, heavy cream and pink food coloring. Mix together on medium speed until it forms a creamy, smooth buttercream.

Assemble The Cake:

1.      Place a cake layer on a cake plate.

2.      Cut of the dome of the first layer if needed to make it flat. Add a dollop of buttercream to the top of the cake. Begin to spread it around, covering all parts of the first layer including the edges.

3.      Turn the second layer of the cake upside down and place on top of the first layer. Place buttercream on top of the second layer ensuring that it's covering the top completely.

4.      Begin to spoon buttercream on the sides of the cake, using a flat icing spatula to smooth the edge of the cake.

5.      For the final touches, get a cup of hot water and put the cake palette knife into it for it to heat up, wipe it with a tea towel and then begin to smooth out the buttercream. The heat from the palette knife will warm the buttercream giving it a smoother finish.

6.      Place the palate knife back into the hot water, wipe it, then go around the top of the cake carefully folding over the edges of buttercream pushing the scraper away from you.

7.      Put the remaining buttercream in a piping bag with a 2D nozzle size and pipe swirls onto the cake.

8.      Sprinkle valentines theme sprinkles onto the buttercream swirls and onto the bottom of the cake.

9.      Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature.

 

For a thicker layer of frosting and more swirls on top, consider doubling the frosting recipe. The calorie count provided is an estimate based on the cake being cut into 15 pieces, with each serving being one slice. Keep in mind that ingredient brands may vary, so it's best to consult a nutritionist for precise nutritional information. For an accurate calorie count, you can use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Servings

·       Prep Time: 30minutes minutes

·       Cooking Time: 30minutes minutes

·       Cooling Time: 30minutes minutes

Triple Layer Vanilla Velvet Valentine Cake

Making a Triple Layer Vanilla Velvet Valentine Cake requires attention to detail and following the steps carefully for the best results. Start by sifting the dry ingredients, it's a step that can easily be overlooked, but it makes a significant difference in the texture of the cake. Also, it’s essential to add the dry ingredients after the wet ones to preserve the volume of the whipped aquafaba. Be sure to whip the aquafaba stiffly before adding it to the batter to maintain lightness. Mixing the batter should also be done gently; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake, so it’s best to leave a few lumps, which will create small air pockets that help achieve the desired fluffiness.

Additionally, timing is crucial when making this cake. Bake the batter as soon as it’s mixed to take advantage of the baking powder’s reaction with the lemon juice and other ingredients, ensuring a good rise. Once the cake is in the oven, avoid opening the door until it's done. Opening it too soon can disrupt the temperature, preventing the cake from rising properly. Patience is key, so give the cake around 35 minutes before checking on it, and let the oven’s light guide your way. With these tips, your Valentine’s Day cake will turn out light, fluffy, and perfectly baked.

INGREDIENTS

Cake:

·        1 cup aquafaba liquid from 2 cans cooked chickpeas

·        1 1/2 cups sugar

·        2 teaspoons lemon juice

·        1/2 cup organic vegetable oil

·        1/2 cup coconut oil (or organic vegetable shortening)

·        1/4 cup applesauce can sub pumpkin puree if you don't mind a little more golden color

·        2 tablespoons baking powder

·        1 1/2 teaspoons salt

·        1 tablespoon vanilla extract from vanilla beans

·        1 teaspoon almond extract

·        3 cups flour

Frosting:

·        6 -7 cups powdered sugar

·        1 cup vegan "butter" (or organic vegetable shortening) room temp

·        1 tablespoon vanilla extract

·        1/4 teaspoon almond extract

·        1/4 teaspoon salt

·        2 tablespoons almond milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1.      Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 C) and line 3 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Pour aquafaba into bowl of stand mixer and beat until it begins to look light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

2.      Slowly drizzle in sugar while beating on high and continue until it forms stiff peaks (it should take about 5 more minutes).

3.      In separate bowl, stir together the lemon juice, applesauce, melted coconut oil, oil, and extracts.

4.      Now, while continuing to beat the aquafaba mixture, slowly pour in the liquids and beat just until evenly combined (the volume of fluffiness will fall a bit but don't worry, it was still worth it for the end result).

5.      Now in another separate bowl, sift the flour, salt, and baking powder. Remove the mixing bowl from the mixer and add the sifted dry ingredients.

6.      Use a large spatula to gently fold in the ingredients just until fairly combined. (It's actually better to leave some small lumps then to overmix and lose volume.)

7.      Divide batter into the pans as evenly as possible. Bake for 30-40 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean and edges are lightly golden.

8.      Remove the cakes from oven and cool completely before frosting. (I prefer to cover them and place them in the freezer for at least an hour.)

For Frosting:

1.      Beat "butter" in a large mixing bowl until creamed. Add vanilla and almond extract, salt, and powdered sugar one cup at a time.

2.      Add milk beat until light and fluffy. You may need to add more milk as needed for frosting consistency to be light and fluffy.

Assemble:

1.      Once cakes are cooled, use a sharp knife to loosen the sides and gently remove cakes from pans. Peel off the parchment and place one of the layers on your desired plate or tray.

2.      Spread a layer of the frosting on top and top with a second layer of cake. Repeat layering cake and frosting for each layer until the top layer is frosted.

3.      Spread a generous amount of frosting on the sides of the cake and use a cake spatula to evenly spread it. You can decorate as desired or leave it simple.

This Triple Layer Vanilla Velvet Valentine Cake is a delicious and visually stunning treat, perfect for any celebration. By following the simple yet essential tips, such as sifting the dry ingredients, folding the batter gently, and baking as soon as possible, you'll ensure a light and fluffy cake every time. With a smooth, creamy vegan frosting and the option to decorate with fresh flowers, this cake is sure to impress. Whether you're making it for Valentine's Day or any special occasion, it’s a sweet way to show your love and creativity. Enjoy!

 

Valentine’s Day Sparkling Strawberry and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Recipe

Panna cotta is the perfect dessert to impress your guests and create a memorable ending to any meal, especially for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. This simple yet elegant dessert, made from heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla thickened with gelatin, is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s easy to prepare and can be presented in many creative ways, making it a favorite in restaurants and at home.

To elevate this dessert, we’re adding the bright and refreshing flavors of Poema Cava Brut Rosé. The strawberries are soaked in this sparkling wine, which enhances the berry flavor and complements the creamy panna cotta. With its subtle notes of strawberry and raspberry, Poema Cava Brut Rosé takes this dessert to the next level. Perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, this panna cotta is a dessert your loved ones will remember.

This Sparkling Strawberry and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta is the perfect way to end a special meal, especially for Valentine’s Day. The creamy panna cotta pairs beautifully with the fresh, sparkling strawberries soaked in Poema Cava Brut Rosé, creating a refreshing and elegant dessert. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and sure to impress your loved ones. Enjoy this delightful treat with a glass of Poema Cava for the ultimate celebration!

Raspberry Molten Chocolate Cake: Decadent, Gooey, and Perfectly Balanced: A Valentine’s Day Treat

There’s no better way to celebrate love and indulgence than with a rich and velvety Raspberry Molten Chocolate Cake. This cake combines the luxurious allure of dark chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The molten center oozes out like a warm, chocolatey river, creating a sensational experience for the taste buds. Whether it’s for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe will wow you and your guests. Prepare to indulge in the perfect dessert that promises to satisfy every chocolate lover's dream!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups good quality heavy cream (or dairy-free milk substitute such as oat milk)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 vanilla bean (or an additional 1 t. extract)
• 2.25 teaspoons gelatin
• 3 Tablespoons cold water
• 1-pound fresh strawberries
• 1-2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice + zest from 1/4 lemon
• 1/2 cup Poema Cava Brut Rosé
• 4 ramekins, coupe glasses, or serving bowls

 

Preparation:

1. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape with a knife to release vanilla bean. Place the entire vanilla bean, scrapings, heavy cream, and sugar in a sauce pot.
2.  Heat the mixture over medium low heat until the sugar is dissolved and the cream is warmed through. (NOTE: Do not bring the cream to a boil. Simply heat through to dissolve sugar).
3. Remove from the heat, remove and discard the vanilla bean pod, and set aside while you “bloom” the gelatin.
4. Place the gelatin and water in a medium sized mixing bowl, stir briefly to combine, and set aside for 5-10 minutes. The gelatin will soak up the water and turn to a gel-like consistency.
5. Next, pour the warm cream mixture over the gelatin and stir slowly with a whisk until the gelatin has dissolved.
6. Pour mixture into serving cups and chill for a minimum of 4 hours.
7. To prepare the strawberries, dice strawberries into small pieces. Place in a bowl with 1-2 T sugar, 2 t lemon juice, and zest of 1/4 lemon. Pour Poema Cava Brut Rosé over top, stir, and cover. Place in the refrigerator until serving.
8. When you are ready to serve: Spoon fresh diced strawberries overtop of panna cotta and be sure to include some of the juices. Pour a glass of Poema Cava Brut Rosé and enjoy your delicious dessert.

 

For the Cake:

·        ½ cup unsalted butter

·        8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

·        1 cup powdered sugar

·        2 large eggs

·        2 egg yolks

·        1 tsp vanilla extract

·        ¼ cup all-purpose flour

·        Pinch of salt

·        ½ cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)

For the Raspberry Sauce:

·        1 cup fresh raspberries

·        ¼ cup sugar

·        1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Ramekins:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease and lightly flour 4 ramekins (6 oz capacity) to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Make the Raspberry Sauce:
   In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the raspberries break down and the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth. Remove from the microwave and whisk in the powdered sugar until combined. Add the eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
4. Assemble the Cakes:
   Spoon a small amount of the cake batter into the bottom of each prepared ramekin. Place a few fresh raspberries in the center of each, then cover with the remaining batter.
5. Bake the Cakes:
   Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft and slightly jiggly.
6. Serve:
   Let the cakes sit for a minute before carefully inverting them onto serving plates. Spoon the raspberry sauce around the cake and garnish with fresh raspberries.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair these molten cakes with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. A side of hot espresso or a glass of red wine also complements the richness of the chocolate and the tartness of the raspberries.

Duration:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

This Raspberry Molten Chocolate Cake is the perfect dessert to indulge in, offering a spectacular combination of chocolate and fresh raspberry flavors. With its gooey center and decadent taste, it’s bound to impress anyone who has the pleasure of tasting it. Ready to indulge? Head to our recipe page to create this chocolate masterpiece, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving!

Conclusion:

From the smooth, velvety layers of the Valentine’s Day Layer Cake to the indulgent creaminess of the Triple Layer Vanilla Velvet Cake, and the refreshing, sparkling twist of the Panna Cotta, these desserts will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also make your Valentine’s celebration extra special. Perfect for any romantic occasion or a treat for loved ones, these recipes are sure to make your day sweet, memorable, and filled with love. Treat yourself, treat others, and celebrate the season of love with these delicious creations!

Ready to elevate your desserts this Valentine’s Day? Bring the rich, aromatic flavor of real vanilla to your creations with NY Vanilla’s premium vanilla beans. Whether you're baking a decadent layer cake or crafting a creamy panna cotta, our beans are the perfect ingredient to make your treats unforgettable. Shop now and experience the authentic taste of high-quality vanilla because every sweet moment deserves the best.

Rerfences:

https://thebestcakerecipes.com/valentines-day-layer-cake/

https://sincerelytori.com/triple-layer-vanilla-velvet-valentine-cake/

https://wine365.com/vanilla-bean-panna-cotta-cava-soaked-strawberries/

https://www.southernliving.com/raspberry-molten-chocolate-cake-8419565