Easy & Delicious Oreo Bark Recipe: The Ultimate 3-Ingredient Holiday Treat
Discover the magic of this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Oreo Bark! With its delightful crunch, perfect sweetness, and irresistible creamy cookie flavor, this treat is sure to become a favorite. Crafted with just three essential ingredients – luscious milk chocolate, crushed Oreos, and festive sprinkles – it’s an ideal, love-filled confection for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Get ready to fall in love with how easy and amazing it is to make this delightful no-bake dessert!
There’s something truly special about homemade candy, especially when it’s as effortless and impressive as this Oreo Bark. Combining the rich, smooth taste of milk chocolate with the satisfying crunch of America’s favorite cookie, it’s a confectionery delight that elevates any moment. While it’s particularly popular for Valentine’s Day, its charm extends to all festive occasions, casual gatherings, potlucks, and anytime you crave a sweet, crunchy treat. This isn’t just a simple recipe; it’s an invitation to have fun in the kitchen, creating something beautiful and delicious with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Imagine graceful swirls of melted milk chocolate elegantly draped over a foundational layer of creamy, rich white chocolate. This visual masterpiece is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. It makes for one of the most stunning yet simple Valentine’s Day bark recipes you can possibly create. The contrasting colors and the delightful combination of chocolates make it an instant hit. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt, edible gift for friends and family, a charming addition to classroom parties, or a standout dessert for a potluck, this homemade bark delivers on all fronts. Its personalized, homemade touch speaks volumes, making it a thoughtful gesture for anyone you want to share a little love with.
One of the best aspects of this Cookies and Cream Oreo Bark is how incredibly easy it is to make, even with children! It transforms a simple afternoon into a fun-filled session of crafting and creating delectable desserts. This no-bake recipe is perfect for little hands to help with crushing cookies and adding sprinkles, creating cherished family memories. Beyond Valentine’s Day, this versatile chocolate bark can be adapted for virtually any holiday or celebration throughout the year. The secret lies in customizing the colors of your Oreos, different toppings, and sprinkles. Think vibrant pastel shades and spring-themed sprinkles for Easter, classic reds and greens for a festive Christmas treat, or spooky orange and black for a fun Halloween confection. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to personalize this delightful candy for every event imaginable, making it a truly adaptable dessert for all seasons and reasons.
A Sweet Celebration: Valentine’s Day Delights & Blog Hops
Valentine’s Day holds a special place in my heart; it’s truly my favorite holiday of the entire year! The joy, the vibrant colors, and the general atmosphere of love and appreciation have enchanted me since childhood. There’s something inherently delightful about dedicating a day to expressing affection through thoughtful gestures and, of course, delicious food. This year, I decided to amplify the celebration by teaming up with a wonderful group of fellow food bloggers to host a special one-day event. Our shared goal? To share an array of irresistible recipes perfect for spreading love and sweetness to everyone around us.
As part of this exciting “Valentine Sweets & Cocktails” blog hop, I’m thrilled to present this delightful Valentine Oreo Bark recipe. It’s an ideal treat to share with loved ones, to package as charming gifts, or to simply indulge in yourself on a cozy evening. This 3-ingredient dessert fits perfectly into the theme of effortless elegance. Once you’ve grabbed this easy-to-follow recipe for my festive Oreo Bark, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the incredible collection of other recipes shared by my talented friends. You’ll find a wide variety of sweets and cocktails, each perfectly crafted for your next Valentine’s Day gathering or a fun “Galentine’s” event with your closest friends. Don’t miss out on these fantastic creations designed to make your celebrations even sweeter and more memorable!
Why This Cookies and Cream Valentine’s Day Bark is Your Go-To Treat
When it comes to choosing the perfect dessert, especially for a holiday like Valentine’s Day, you want something that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing and incredibly simple to prepare. This Cookies and Cream Oreo Bark checks all those boxes and more. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe truly exceptional and why it should be at the top of your baking (or rather, no-baking) list:
- Pretty, Fun, and Incredibly Delicious: This bark is a masterpiece of taste and aesthetics. The sweet and creamy notes of the white chocolate perfectly complement the delightful crunch of the Oreos, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every single bite. The blend of smooth chocolate with the textured cookie pieces is simply irresistible. When adorned with whimsical pink hearts, sparkling red, or other festive sprinkles, this isn’t just a regular candy; it’s true eye candy, guaranteed to impress anyone who sees (and tastes!) it. It instantly brings a festive flair and celebratory mood to any dessert table, making it perfect for special occasions.
- Effortlessly Easy and Quick to Make: Say goodbye to complicated baking projects and lengthy ingredient lists! This milk chocolate and almond bark recipe is designed for ultimate simplicity, making it accessible for even the most novice confectioner. It involves just a few straightforward steps: melt your chocolates, combine with crushed Oreos, spread onto a baking sheet, add your desired decorations, and chill. The beauty of it lies in its minimal effort for maximum impact and delicious results. Once assembled, a brief stint of just thirty minutes in the refrigerator is all it takes for it to set firm, making it an ideal last-minute treat for unexpected guests, a quick party contribution, or sudden sweet cravings.
- Perfectly Adaptable for Any Holiday or Occasion: While we’ve highlighted its suitability for Valentine’s Day, the true versatility of this chocolate bark lies in its incredible adaptability. It’s super easy to customize for virtually any holiday or theme simply by changing the colors of your Oreos and sprinkles. Imagine vibrant yellow and blue sprinkles for a cheerful spring celebration like Easter, patriotic red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July, spooky orange Oreos and themed sprinkles for a fun Halloween party, or classic red and green combinations for a festive Christmas treat. This adaptability makes it a year-round favorite dessert that can always be fresh and exciting.
- Endlessly Versatile for Customization: Feeling creative and want to add your unique touch? This bark recipe is a fantastic canvas for culinary experimentation. You can easily add extra glamour and flavor by incorporating various candies like different colored M&Ms, chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, pecans, walnuts), or even other sweet chips such as peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, or toffee bits. For a delightful salty-sweet contrast that truly elevates the flavor profile, consider adding crushed pretzels or a sprinkle of sea salt. The possibilities for customization are truly endless, allowing you to tailor the bark precisely to your personal preferences, dietary needs, or specific event themes.
- Simple & Stunning Decoration Options: Beyond just varying toppings, you can also play with the chocolate layers for diverse visual effects and flavors. For instance, try using a dark chocolate as the base layer, then drizzle and swirl white or milk chocolate on top for a richer, more intense flavor profile and a striking contrast. Or, create beautiful marbled patterns by gently swirling the two melted chocolates together with a toothpick or skewer. These simple techniques can lead to stunning, professional-looking results that are sure to wow your guests and elevate your homemade candy to an art form. The decorative potential of this easy Oreo Bark is immense!
Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious Oreo Bark
Crafting this delightful Oreo Bark is incredibly simple, thanks to a short and sweet list of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and satisfying crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal requirements, making it a perfect beginner-friendly candy. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this irresistible treat:
- White Candy Melts: Often referred to as almond bark or simply white chocolate melts, these vanilla-flavored discs are the backbone of our delicious bark. Candy melts are specifically designed to melt smoothly and set firmly, making them much easier to work with for bark recipes than traditional white chocolate, which can sometimes seize or be temperamental due to its cocoa butter content. They ensure your cookies and cream bark is super rich, sweet, and holds its shape beautifully at room temperature, providing that perfect snap when broken.
- Milk Chocolate: For that irresistible chocolate swirl and an added layer of flavor and visual appeal, you’ll need a good quality milk chocolate. Whether you opt for milk chocolate candy melts for easy, consistent melting or finely chopped milk chocolate bars, the goal is a smooth, creamy consistency perfect for drizzling. This creates a beautiful, delectable contrast against the white base and adds a classic chocolatey depth to the overall taste, making the bark even more appealing to chocolate lovers. The combination of white and milk chocolate offers a balanced sweetness.
- Heart Sprinkles (or your favorite festive sprinkles): While optional, sprinkles are highly recommended for that extra touch of visual appeal and celebratory fun! For Valentine’s Day, an array of red, pink, or white heart-shaped sprinkles instantly transforms the bark into a romantic and festive treat. For other holidays, feel free to switch them up – use colorful jimmies for birthdays, vibrant green for St. Patrick’s Day, or spooky orange and black for Halloween. Sprinkles don’t just add color; they also introduce a subtle textural element that enhances the overall eating experience.
- Oreo Cookies: The undisputed star of the show! You’ll need a generous amount of these iconic chocolate sandwich cookies, typically around twenty, which will be chopped and divided into two portions. Oreos provide the signature “cookies and cream” flavor and an essential crunch that makes this bark so addictive. The dark chocolate cookie against the white and milk chocolate base is visually appealing and texturally satisfying. Don’t forget to chop them ahead of time to make the assembly process even quicker. You can use classic Oreos or get adventurous by experimenting with different Oreo flavors like Golden Oreos, Mint Oreos, or even seasonal varieties for an extra twist!
With these few simple, readily available ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning and scrumptious homemade Oreo bark that everyone will adore. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it accessible for even novice confectioners and a fantastic project for a fun afternoon.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Oreo Cookie Bark
Creating this delightful Oreo Cookie Bark is an enjoyable and straightforward process that yields impressive results with minimal effort. Follow these simple, easy-to-understand steps to make your own batch of crunchy, creamy, chocolatey goodness that’s perfect for any occasion:
Preparation is Key for a Smooth Process
First, let’s get our workspace ready to ensure a smooth, mess-free experience. Take a standard-sized baking sheet and line it thoroughly with parchment paper. This crucial step is vital because it prevents your chocolate bark from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal and clean, perfect pieces once it has hardened. Using parchment paper also makes for a super easy cleanup, which is always a bonus when making desserts!
Melting the Chocolates to Perfection
Next, it’s time to melt the white candy melts. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl. To avoid scorching, heat them in short, thirty-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue this process until the melts are completely smooth, glossy, and free of any lumps. Patience is key here to achieve a perfectly melted consistency. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for a more gradual and gentle melting process; always refer to the candy package’s directions for specific instructions. In a separate, clean microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate using the exact same thirty-second interval method, stirring until it’s also perfectly smooth and ready to combine. Having both chocolates ready ensures you can work efficiently.
Adding Oreos and Assembling the Bark Layers
Once your white chocolate is perfectly melted and smooth, sprinkle ¾ cup of your finely chopped Oreos directly into it. Using a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant rubber spatula, gently mix the ingredients until the cookie pieces are evenly distributed throughout the luscious white chocolate. The delightful contrast of the dark cookie pieces against the creamy white chocolate creates an appealing visual texture.
Now, it’s time to create the foundational layer of your homemade bark. With a spoon or an offset spatula, carefully spread the white chocolate mixture onto your prepared, parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for an even layer, approximately ¼-inch thick, covering the entire surface of the parchment paper. A consistent thickness will ensure your bark sets evenly and breaks beautifully.
With the white chocolate layer spread smoothly, it’s time for the artistic touch that gives this bark its signature look. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate generously over the white chocolate layer. You can create intricate patterns, simple zig-zags, or bold, abstract swirls – this is where you can have a lot of fun and let your creativity shine! Use a toothpick or a skewer to gently swirl the two chocolates together for a beautiful marbled effect if desired, blending the colors subtly.
To enhance both the satisfying crunch and the rich cookies and cream flavors, generously top the melted chocolate with the remainder of the chopped Oreos. Press them gently into the warm chocolate to ensure they adhere well and don’t fall off once the bark is set. This final layer of cookies ensures every single piece of bark is loaded with that classic Oreo taste and irresistible texture, making each bite a delight.
Chill Until Perfect and Serve
Finally, to add that festive sparkle and finishing touch, generously sprinkle your heart-shaped sprinkles or other chosen types of festive sprinkles atop the Oreo bark while the chocolate is still wet. Once decorated, carefully place the entire baking sheet of chocolate into the refrigerator to chill for approximately thirty minutes. The bark is ready when it is completely hard and solid to the touch, and the chocolate snaps easily. This chilling time is absolutely essential for a clean break, perfect texture, and to ensure the bark holds its shape.
Once the bark candy has fully hardened, carefully remove it from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut it into desired squares, triangles, or irregular shards. The irregular, rustic shapes add to the charm of homemade bark and make for easier serving. Arrange the pieces beautifully on a platter, or package them in pretty bags for gifting. Enjoy this fun, delicious treat with your loved ones for a sweet indulgence! This irresistible bark is perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself.
Expert Tips for the Best Oreo Bark
While this Oreo Bark recipe is incredibly simple and forgiving, a few expert tips can ensure your batch turns out absolutely perfect every time. These pointers will help you avoid common pitfalls, enhance the flavor, and improve the texture of your delicious homemade treat, making you a bark-making pro:
- Mastering Chocolate Melting: The most crucial step is to melt your chocolate properly. Be sure to avoid overburning the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize, become grainy, and develop an unpleasant, burnt taste. Always heat in short bursts (30 seconds at a time in the microwave) and stir well between each interval to distribute the heat evenly. If using a double boiler, ensure no water or steam comes into contact with the chocolate, as even a tiny drop can cause it to seize instantly. Use perfectly dry utensils and bowls.
- Experiment with Oreo Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to classic Oreos! This recipe is wonderfully versatile and encourages creativity. Use any flavor of Oreo to create exciting different flavors and vibrant colors. Imagine refreshing mint Oreos for a cool twist, rich peanut butter Oreos for a nutty kick, or even festive seasonal gingerbread Oreos during the holidays. This simple swap can completely transform the taste profile and appearance of your bark!
- Achieving the Perfect Crunch: For extra crunch and textural contrast, ensure your Oreos are coarsely chopped. A food processor can make quick work of this, but be careful not to over-process them into fine crumbs – you want distinct, visible pieces for that satisfying bite. If you don’t have a food processor, place them in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Optimal Storage for Freshness: To keep your delicious Oreo candy bark fresh and firm, always store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or for extended freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Storing it in the fridge will ensure it stays firm and prevents the chocolate from softening, while also keeping the Oreos delightfully crisp.
- Freezing for Long-Term Enjoyment: If you’ve made a large batch or want to prepare ahead for future events, this bark freezes beautifully! Simply place the hardened bark pieces in a freezer-safe airtight bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for an hour or two to thaw before serving.
- Elevate with Extra Drizzle: For an even more decadent and visually appealing treat, consider adding another layer of flavor. Drizzle caramel sauce over the bark just before chilling (or after cutting, just before serving) to make it extra appetizing and add a chewy element. You could also try a contrasting drizzle of white chocolate on milk chocolate bark, or vice versa, for another layer of visual appeal and taste complexity.
- Customize Your Toppings: Think beyond sprinkles! This bark is a fantastic base for a variety of additions. Add crushed nuts (like pecans, almonds, or peanuts), mini chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, dried fruit (like cranberries or cherries), pretzels for a delightful salty-sweet element, or even other small candies such as M&Ms or chopped candy bars.
- Cutting Cleanly: Once completely chilled and hardened, use a sharp, heavy knife to cut the bark into your desired shapes. For super clean edges, you can briefly warm your knife under hot running water and wipe it completely dry before each cut. This helps the knife glide through the chocolate without cracking it.
By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’ll be able to create stunning and delicious Oreo Bark that’s perfect for gifting, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy the rewarding process of creating this delightful homemade treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Oreo Bark
Here are some common questions you might have when making this delicious Oreo Bark, providing clarity and confidence for your confectionery adventure:
- Can I use regular white chocolate instead of candy melts? While you technically can use regular white chocolate, white candy melts (or almond bark) are highly recommended for bark recipes. Regular white chocolate is more prone to seizing if overheated or if it comes into contact with even a tiny bit of moisture. Candy melts are formulated to melt smoothly, consistently, and set firmer, providing a more reliable and easier-to-work-with result for bark. If you do use regular white chocolate, opt for a high-quality baking chocolate and melt it very carefully using a double boiler to avoid issues.
- How do I prevent my chocolate from seizing? Seizing occurs when chocolate becomes thick, lumpy, and unworkable. It’s usually caused by overheating or by introducing even a small amount of water or steam. To prevent this, melt chocolate in short intervals (30 seconds at a time in the microwave), stirring thoroughly between each burst to distribute the heat evenly. When using a double boiler, ensure the bowl containing the chocolate is not touching the simmering water and no steam escapes into the chocolate. Always use completely dry utensils and bowls.
- What kind of Oreos are best for this bark? Classic Oreos are fantastic and provide that iconic cookies and cream flavor, but feel free to get creative! Golden Oreos, Mint Oreos, Peanut Butter Oreos, or any seasonal flavor can add a unique twist and exciting new dimension to your bark. Just make sure they are thoroughly crushed for optimal texture within the chocolate base.
- How finely should I chop the Oreos? For the best textural contrast and that delightful “cookies and cream” mouthfeel, aim for a coarse chop. You want distinct pieces of cookie to provide crunch, not fine crumbs that might disappear into the chocolate. A food processor pulsed a few times works great for this, or you can place them in a sturdy zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Can I add other toppings besides sprinkles? Absolutely! This bark is incredibly versatile and serves as a wonderful canvas for various toppings. Consider adding crushed nuts (pecans, almonds, peanuts), mini chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, dried fruit like cranberries or cherries, pretzels for a fantastic salty-sweet element, or even other small candies such as M&Ms or chopped candy bars. Let your imagination run wild!
- How long does Oreo Bark need to chill? Typically, about 30 minutes in the refrigerator is sufficient for the bark to harden and set completely. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm to the touch and snaps cleanly when broken or cut. Avoid chilling for too long in the fridge as it can sometimes cause condensation to form when brought back to room temperature.
- How should I store the leftover bark? Store your delicious Oreo bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or for a slightly longer shelf life and to maintain firmness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping it in the fridge will ensure it stays firm, especially in warmer climates, and prevents the chocolate from becoming too soft.
- Can I freeze Oreo Bark? Yes, you absolutely can! Place the hardened bark pieces in a freezer-safe airtight bag or container, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to prevent them from sticking together. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months! To serve, simply transfer the frozen bark to the refrigerator for an hour or two to thaw before enjoying.
Love This Cookie Bark Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this delightful, easy recipe slip away! Be sure to save this simple candy recipe to your favorite Pinterest boards – whether it’s for chocolate recipes, Valentine’s Day ideas, holiday treats, or quick no-bake desserts. Pin it now so you can easily find it whenever the craving for a quick, delicious, and impressive treat strikes. You’ll absolutely love making this recipe time and time again for all your special moments and sweet celebrations!
Other Sweet Bark Recipes for Holidays
If you’re a fan of the simplicity and incredible versatility of bark recipes, you’re in for a treat! These no-bake wonders are perfect for holidays, gifting, or just a quick indulgence. Here are some other fantastic bark creations from An Affair From The Heart, perfect for various holidays and occasions:
- Pecan Caramel Bark (Turtle Bark)
- Brownie Bark with Pistachios
- Peppermint Bark Caramel Popcorn
- White and Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark
- Easy Graham Cracker Toffee
More Sweet Valentine’s Day Recipes to Love
Looking for more ways to celebrate love with delicious, homemade desserts? Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, a festive party, or simply want to spread some sweetness, these Valentine’s Day recipes from An Affair From The Heart are perfect for sharing with your sweethearts:
- Oreo Truffles (pictured above)
- Valentine Sweets for Your Sweet
- Valentine Dessert Cheese Board
- White Chocolate Strawberry Muddy Buddies
- Black Forest Cake
- Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
What are you waiting for? Let’s gather our simple ingredients and whip up some of this utterly delicious Oreo Bark so we can start indulging in its sweet, crunchy perfection! Happy no-baking and happy indulging!
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Print Recipe
Oreo Bark
Ingredients
- 30 ounces white candy melts vanilla flavored
- ½ cup chocolate candy melts
- 20 Oreo Cookies chopped, divided
- Heart shaped sprinkles optional
Instructions
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Melt white candy melts in the microwave, according to the package instructions. Stirring until smooth.
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In another bowl, melt the chocolate candy melts in the same manner.
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Stir ¾ cup of the crushed oreos into the melted white candy.
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Spread onto the prepared cookie sheet in an even layer that is about ¼” thick.
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Drizzle the milk chocolate and swirl over the top of the white chocolate.
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Top with remaining crushed oreos.
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Add sprinkles if desired.
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Place in the fridge for about 30 minutes, until bark is hardened and set.
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Cut into squares.
Nutrition
It’s time to start planning our Valentine and Galentine events, and you’ll need some lovely recipes to serve! Check out these delightful Valentine Sweets and Cocktails, all part of the #ValentineSweets blogging event hosted by Michaela from An Affair from the Heart:
- An Affair from the Heart – Valentine Oreo Bark
- Fresh April Flours – Red Velvet Bundt Cake
- Hostess At Heart – Easy Valentine’s Day Fudge Recipe
- Lemon Blossoms – Pink Champagne Cake
- Family Around the Table – Chocolate Peanut Butter Bundt Cake with Peanut Butter Glaze
- A Day in the Life on the Farm – Chocolate Cheesecake
- Daily Dish Recipes – Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
- The Fresh Cooky – Red Velvet Donuts
- Devour Dinner – Dessert Charcuterie Board
- Jolene’s Recipe Journal – Copycat Flaky Puffs
- Art of Natural Living – Bailey’s Chocolate Martini
- Jen around the world – Strawberry Mojito Mocktail
- Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog – Sugar Cookie Bars
- Soulfully Made – Easy Red Velvet Brownies
- The Redhead Baker – Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Layer Cake
- Magical Ingredients – Soft White Chocolate Strawberry Fudge
- Take Two Tapas – Valentine’s Pretzel Hugs
- SueBee Homemaker – Chocolate Cake for Two
- Palatable Pastime – Strawberry White Hot Chocolate
- The Spiffy Cookie – Red Velvet Molten Lava Cakes
- Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks – Pomegranate Moscow Mule
- Books n’ Cooks – French Martini
- Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck Survive Despite a Whiskered Accomplice – Nutty M&M Peanut Butter Cup Valentine Cookies