33 Lovable Valentine’s Day Cookies Made to Share in 2026
Valentine’s Day cookies are having a moment, quietly edging out the classic chocolate box and heart-shaped candy as the go-to treat for February 14. That makes sense, because Valentine’s Day isn’t really just for couples anymore. It shows up in classrooms, offices, friend groups and family kitchens — places where cookies work better than some of the best Valentine's candy.
Cookies hit a practical sweet spot. They’re easy to bake in batches, simple to share and thoughtful without being overly personal. That makes them just as welcome at school parties and work swaps as they are on a dessert table at home.
The growing popularity of the Valentine's cookie isn’t anecdotal either. According to the National Retail Federation, the holiday has expanded well beyond romantic partners, with food and small treats among the most common ways people mark the day across different relationships and settings. Cookies fit that reality better than most Valentine's Day desserts.
From fluffy coconut and rich chocolate to jam-filled centers, heart shapes and pastel sprinkles, this list brings together Valentine’s Day cookies that work for everyone — and for the way the holiday actually looks now. Bake them with kids, box them up for friends, bring them to the office or keep a few at home alongside your Starbucks Valentine's drinks.
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- Fun Valentine’s Day Cookie Ideas to Share
- Simple Valentine’s Day Cookies Anyone Can Make
- Unique Valentine’s Day Cookies for Something Different
Fun Valentine’s Day Cookie Ideas to Share
These are the Valentine’s Day cookies that lean into the experience as much as the result. They’re playful, a little nostalgic and often best made with other people — kids, friends or anyone who enjoys getting involved in the baking process.
1. Bake Valentine’s Cookies with Top Chefs
For a really fun and hands-on experience and a chance to boost your baking skills at the same time, why not join some cooking classes with gourmet chefs and pastry artists? You’ll pick up practical skills like shaping dough, working with royal icing and getting comfortable with piping, all while making something you can actually take home and share.
There are in-person cooking classes in Atlanta, NYC or Chicago, or you can keep things low-key with an online baking class from your own kitchen. Either way, it’s the kind of skill-building activity that works well beyond Valentine’s Day. Once you’ve learned the basics, you can reuse them for other holiday cookies like Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas — or how about broader Valentine's painting ideas if you're feeling extra crafty.
2. Kiss Cookies
You can’t beat kiss cookies when searching for simple Valentine’s Day cookies. And sure, they're also known as peanut butter blossoms, but we think kisses work better for Valentine's Day. Give away your kisses as Valentine's Day gift ideas or keep them for yourself.
All you need to do is bake up your favorite peanut butter cookie recipe (or peanut butter alternative cookie) and place a Hershey’s Kiss on top. What is the most loved cookie for Valentine's Day? Hershey's Kiss cookies, of course.
3. Palmiers
It's pretty obvious that the history of Valentine's Day has given us one generic symbol above all others: hearts. And French palmiers fit the bill for Valentine's Day cookies perfectly. Why? Because they're heart-shaped, of course.
They're super easy to make too. All that’s needed are puff pastry sheets and a sprinkle of sugar. Pastry rectangles are rolled inward from either side, frozen and then sliced into 3/8-inch pieces to create the fun “palm leaf” or heart pattern.
And because they look so good and are appropriately themed, you can use these tasty Valentine's Day treats as a table centerpiece for your Valentine's Day decor.
4. Whoopie Pie Cookies
Whoopie pie cookies might not initially feel like Valentine’s Day at first glance, but once you put them on a table, it makes total sense. They’re soft, indulgent and built to be shared — which is exactly what most February 14 celebrations actually look like.
They also have a bit of history behind them. According to Tasting Table, whoopie pies trace back to New England and Pennsylvania Dutch baking traditions, which explains why they’ve stuck around for so long. They’re familiar, comforting and hard to pass up.
Go traditional with chocolate cookies and vanilla filling, or lean into the holiday with a red velvet version and chocolate cream.
5. Linzer Heart Cookies
Linzer heart cookies earn their spot among Valentine’s Day cookies for a pretty obvious reason — they’re literally shaped like hearts. These classic Austrian shortbread cookies come layered, with a cut-out top heart shape that shows off the filling underneath. That means the decorating is already done.
Traditionally, they’re filled with black currant jam, but this is one place where swapping in raspberry, strawberry or whatever you love most just makes sense. Choose your most delicious filling (preferably red) for some sweeter Valentine's Day party appetizers, for a holiday brunch foods or afternoon tea. Either way, they’ll become a hit at the office or family get-together.
6. Chocolate Marshmallow Sandwich Cookies
While they're not traditionally hearts, chocolate marshmallow sandwich cookies are a delicious brownie-like addition to your holiday cookie table. And you can definitely make them Valentine-friendly by shaping them like a Linzer cookie. Then, instead of jam or jelly, use a marshmallow cream and melted chocolate. Or just do it like a S'more and make a mini sandwich.
If you’re wondering, How do you cut heart-shaped cookies without a cookie cutter? Simply flatten out a piece of dough, then using a sharp knife, form a point for the bottom and work around to the top. It may not come out completely perfect, but it will still taste terrific.
7. M&M Cookie Bars
How about if you're baking with the kids? M&M cookies are the way to go. All you need is your favorite chocolate Valentine's cookie recipe as your base, then decorate generously with M&Ms.
You can use special red, pink and white M&Ms Valentine's edition, or just red from a traditional M&Ms pack (bonus, you can eat the other colors while baking, we won't tell).
8. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
A soft and fudgy center makes these chocolate crinkle Valentine's Day cookies a delight to bite into, and everyone knows chocolate has its place on Valentine's Day. Lean in and make them extra chocolatey.
The signature crinkled top comes from the baking powder and baking soda working as they bake, creating that crackly finish everyone loves. A final dusting of powdered sugar gives them a snow-dusted look that feels right at home on a winter holiday table.
9. Peppermint Meringues
Put a snappy touch of peppermint into your baking sessions with these peppermint meringues. Fluffy and light as air, they feature swirls of Valentine’s Day-inspired red and white mixed with shades of pink.
They make for a terrific addition to a box of Valentine's Day candy for a neighbor, a co-worker or anyone in between.
10. Raspberry Coconut Balls
Raspberry is most certainly one of the top Valentine’s Day flavors, behind chocolate and strawberry, of course. They’re soft, fluffy and easy to share, which makes them great for parties or dessert tables. A roll in pink sanding sugar gives the coconut flakes a soft blush that feels festive without trying too hard.
11. Glazed Strawberry Cookies
These cookies earn their Valentine’s Day status on color alone. That soft pink comes from strawberry gelatin, while the jelly filling keeps things sweet without being heavy. Add white chocolate drops if you want a little more of a treat factor.
12. Chocolate-Dipped Cranberry Cookies
Cranberries and semi-sweet chocolate chips might not feel like Valentine’s Day at first, but they’re just indulgent enough to earn a spot on this list of Valentine’s Day cookies.
Take a standard butter cookie or shortbread base and fold it in. The deep red from the cranberries gives them a subtle Valentine’s touch, while dipping one end in melted chocolate adds richness. You can add chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy touch.
13. Thumbprint Cookies
For a fun family baking day, break out your favorite jams and jellies and make thumbprint Valentine’s Day cookies. A buttery base and a bright jam center — think raspberry, strawberry or cherry — give these an easy Valentine’s feel. Kids love pressing the thumbprint, and everyone gets to choose their filling.
Simple Valentine’s Day Cookies Anyone Can Make
Not every Valentine’s Day cookie needs to be elaborate. These ideas keep things straightforward, using familiar ingredients and classic flavors that come together quickly and still feel thoughtful enough to share.
14. Sugar Cookies
For sweet and easy Valentine’s Day cookies, sugar cookies fit the bill every time. Decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles, mini chips or a touch of buttercream frosting to create a simple Valentine’s Day cookie idea everyone will love.
15. Buckeye Cookies
Peanut butter filling covered in chocolate. You can’t get much easier than that. Buckeye cookies keep things simple while still feeling special enough for Valentine’s Day, especially when you finish them with a light sprinkle of sea salt. The contrast of sweet, salty and creamy hits all the right notes, and they’re easy to make in batches for sharing without overthinking it.
16. Butter Cookies
Butter cookies keep Valentine’s Day baking simple. With a short list of ingredients — flour, butter, sugar and egg yolks — they’re easy to make. And they’re the perfect base for Valentine’s Day cookies, since you can shape them however you like or add simple decorations that give them a Valentine’s feel.
17. Peanut Butter Cookies
If you’ve ever wondered what the most loved cookie is, peanut butter cookies come pretty close. After mixing and rolling, press fork tines into the soft dough to make these classic Valentine’s Day cookies. To make them feel seasonal, add some Valentine’s touches like pink sugar, heart sprinkles or a quick chocolate drizzle.
18. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies work for just about everyone, which is exactly why they fit Valentine’s Day so well. Use dark, white or milk chocolate chips, then add a small seasonal detail to give them a Valentine’s spin without overthinking it.
19. Mexican Wedding Cookies
Also known as “snowball cookies,” these powdered sugar-covered treats make excellent Valentine’s Day cookies. They're similar to shortbread cookies but feature a nutty texture due to the addition of pecans, almonds or walnuts. They make a cute addition to a Valentine’s Day gift box.
20. Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread cookies are the perfect reason to break out those Valentine’s Day cookie cutters. Form into shapes (hearts, maybe?) that you can pipe with royal icing or buttercream to create a sweet topping for melt-in-your-mouth Valentine's Day cookies.
21. Oatmeal Cookies
Another holiday favorite, these oatmeal cookies offer a lighter option among Valentine’s Day cookies. They stay soft and chewy for parties and cookie exchanges, with chocolate chips or raisins adding just enough sweetness to make them feel special.
22. Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take the traditional chip-filled cookie up a notch with this dark chocolate chip cookie, which just might be the answer to “What is the dessert trend for Valentine’s Day this year?” Lavender buds, Himalayan salt and oat milk lend a unique touch to these vegan Valentine's Day cookies.
Unique Valentine’s Day Cookies for Something Different
If you’re looking to do something a little different this Valentine’s Day, these Valentine's Day cookies bring unexpected flavors, formats and textures to the table. They’re great when you want a standout treat that still fits the spirit of the holiday without feeling overdone. And since the secret is in the decoration, these cookies double as a cute Valentine's Day craft you can do with the whole family.
23. Red Velvet Skillet Cookie
Are you looking for a dessert made for two? This red velvet skillet cookie can be served right from the cast-iron pan for a romantic treat. Sprinkle with white chocolate chips, drizzle caramel and add a dollop of ice cream or whipped cream. If you don't have a skillet, the normal red-colored Valentine's Day cookies will do just fine.
24. Mexican Chocolate Walnut Biscotti
Mexican chocolate gives a spicy punch to traditionally sweet desserts. This Mexican chocolate walnut biscotti recipe combines walnuts, chocolate chips and Maraschino cherries with the spicy touch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper to create a crunchy treat. Add to a box of soft and chewy Valentine’s Day cookies for an extra warming treat.
25. French Macarons
Nothing says love better than pastel shades of perfectly formed French macarons. Gel food coloring makes it easy to prepare a variety of shades. Fill with merengue, buttercream or a frosting of your choice for munchy Valentine's Day cookies.
These are great Valentine's Day gifts, too, because they're so moreish. Add a personalized card with their favorite Valentine's Day quotes to make it extra romantic.
26. Brandy Snaps
Try these unique brandy snaps for Valentine’s Day cookies for a non-traditional take on the traditional Italian cannoli. Crispy rolled pastry dough filled with a mix of heavy cream, sugar and a bit of brandy.
You could also fill it with buttercream or another favorite filling. Either way, they deliver texture and shape to a plate of Valentine’s Day desserts.
27. Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
Combine two desserts in one with this delicious cookie ice cream sandwich recipe. Layer a dollop of ice cream between large chocolate chip cookies. Whether served warm or chilled from the freezer, these Valentine’s Day cookies will become a year-round favorite.
28. Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Take breakfast sweets to the dessert table with these cinnamon roll Valentine’s Day cookies. Combine cream cheese, blend in butter and add a dash of vanilla extract — along with a filling of brown sugar and cinnamon — to create a pinwheel-type pastry. Drizzle a sweet mix of powdered sugar, maple extract and butter on top. Enjoy after any meal with your sweetheart.
29. Lemon-Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Valentine’s Day cookies don’t have to be all about chocolate. Refreshing lemon-lavender shortbread cookies are easy Valentine’s Day cookies for the non-chocoholics in your crew. A dusting of powdered sugar puts the finishing touch on these easy Valentine cookies.
30. Cranberry Lime Macaroons
Cranberry lime macaroons are an excellent idea for folks who may not be fans of the usual chocolate and super-sweet ingredients of Valentine’s Day cookies. Cranberries and lime zest, combined with fluffy coconut flakes, make them a must-try at the holiday dessert table.
31. Neapolitan Cookies
Take your favorite ice cream to the cookie aisle. Shades of chocolate, strawberry and creamy vanilla make a romantic plate of Valentine’s Day cookies. Neapolitan cookies are rich and creamy, perfect for any party, cookie exchange or bake sale. This could be another heart-shaped cookie recipe that you could use for your Valentine’s Day cookies.
32. Sugar Cookie Bars
Sugar cookie bars take the crisp taste of sugar cookies and blend them into a chewy bar. Spread a layer of pink or white icing and top with pastel sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for a playful touch to these Valentine's Day cookies.
33. Cherry Cookie Bars
Cherry adds a bright color and tart taste to your Valentine’s Day cookies. A bit of orange and lemon zest brings a refreshing citrus zing to these delicious bars. Add a small dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
From school parties and Galentine's Day get-togethers to book clubs and neighborhood swaps, these Valentine’s Day cookies fit just about any way the holiday shows up now.
Bake a big batch, mix a few styles onto one plate or box them up to share. However you use them, these cookies are meant to be passed around, enjoyed together and remembered long after the last crumb is gone. Remember to share memories of these Valentine cookies recipes with pictures.
For even more fun Valentine’s Day ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
