If you’re looking for the ultimate homemade treat for someone special (or, honestly, just for yourself!), Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts absolutely deliver. These adorable, chocolate-dipped peanut butter hearts are every bit as luscious as the famous candy, but made right in your own kitchen with a handful of pantry staples. From the creamy peanut butter filling to the snappy chocolate shell and endless decorating opportunities, you’ll fall completely in love—bite after decadent bite. Whether it’s for a festive party or a cozy night in, Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts are as satisfying to make as they are to eat.

Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a few simple ingredients come together to make these show-stopping Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts, and each one plays an irreplaceable role in building the flavor and texture you crave. From the rich peanut butter to a silky chocolate coating, here’s how every ingredient makes a difference.

Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show—smooth, salty, and packed with classic Reese’s flavor.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps bind the filling, making it perfectly creamy.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the peanut butter’s natural nuttiness.
Vanilla extract: A splash brings a warm, sweet note that rounds out the filling.
Powdered sugar: Binds the dough and creates that signature sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips: For the glossy, luscious outer shell—choose your chocolate adventure!
Coconut oil or shortening: Ensures your chocolate melts smoothly and sets with a lovely sheen.
Festive sprinkles or pink candy melts (optional): For eye-catching decoration—get creative and make your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts pop!

How to Make Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts

Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling

In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula to blend the creamy peanut butter with softened unsalted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until your mixture is smooth, glossy, and delightfully fragrant—it should already remind you of a fresh Reese’s cup, but we’re far from finished!

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar and Form the Dough

Gradually work in the powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. By the end you’ll have a thick, sturdy dough that holds together easily. If your dough appears sticky, don’t worry—just sprinkle in a little more powdered sugar until you can handle it with minimal mess.

Step 3: Shape and Cut the Hearts

Divide the peanut butter dough in half for easier working, and roll it between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/2-inch thickness. Grab your favorite heart-shaped cookie cutter—big or small, up to you!—and punch out the hearts. Line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and pop them in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. This extra chill is what ensures your hearts keep their shape when dipped in luscious chocolate.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate and Coat the Hearts

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips with coconut oil or shortening. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the chocolate is silky and smooth. One by one, dip the chilled hearts into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift and coat them on all sides. Tap gently to remove excess chocolate, then lay each heart back onto the parchment. Don’t stress if things get a little messy—imperfection is part of their homemade charm!

Step 5: Decorate and Set

While the chocolate is still soft, go wild with sprinkles or a drizzle of melted pink candy melts—this is where your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts become one-of-a-kind. Once decorated, transfer the tray to the fridge so the chocolate can set and become that perfect snappy shell you love.

How to Serve Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts

Garnishes

The fun is just beginning once your hearts are chocolate-coated! Try finishing them with a dusting of festive heart-shaped sprinkles, a flick of edible shimmer dust, or that satisfying drizzle of colored candy melts. Each choice adds a pop of color and a memorable finishing touch that makes your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts truly irresistible and Instagram-worthy.

Side Dishes

These treats shine on a Valentine’s dessert spread alongside strawberries, raspberries, or sultry chocolate-dipped pretzels. For a beverage pairing, hot cocoa, strong coffee, or even a sparkling rosé brings out those classic flavors and turns snack time into a sweet celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Package your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts in a pretty gift box with a handwritten note for a heartfelt homemade gift. Arrange them on a platter with clusters of fresh berries for a stunning dessert table centerpiece. Or, add a few to individual treat bags for party favors and school celebrations—there’s no wrong way to bring smiles with these beauties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keeping them chilled gives the chocolate that satisfying snap and keeps the peanut butter center perfectly soft and creamy.

Freezing

If you somehow have extras, these hearts freeze wonderfully! Lay them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just let them thaw in the fridge before serving to restore their smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Reheating

While you don’t need to reheat Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts (since they’re perfect right from the fridge or freezer), letting them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes takes the chill off and brings out their aroma and creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as this can melt the chocolate shell.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter gives your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts some extra texture and a delightful crunch. If you love a little bite in your candy, go for it.

Can I make these dairy-free?

You sure can! Swap the unsalted butter for a vegan butter substitute and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. The results are just as decadent and friendly for those with dairy sensitivities.

Do I need a heart-shaped cookie cutter?

While a heart cutter is classic for Valentine’s Day, you can use any shape you have on hand or simply slice the dough into squares or rounds. The taste of Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts will still steal the show!

Can I use white chocolate instead of milk or semi-sweet?

Yes! White chocolate offers a gorgeous, creamy twist. Dye it pink for the ultimate Valentine’s look, or drizzle it on top for pretty contrast.

How far ahead can I make these treats?

You can prepare your Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts several days before your event. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for even longer—perfect for planning ahead.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making them for a sweetheart, whipping up a batch with the kids, or just satisfying your own chocolate-peanut butter cravings, Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts add a touch of homemade magic to any occasion. Give them a try—you’ll see just how easy (and delicious) it is to spread a little love, one chocolatey heart at a time!

Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 20 hearts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these delightful Reese’s Valentine’s Hearts, a perfect treat for your loved ones on Valentine’s Day. These homemade chocolate peanut butter hearts are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Filling:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar

Chocolate Coating and Decoration:

2 cups milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
festive sprinkles or pink candy melts (optional, for decoration)

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Instructions

Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring until a thick dough forms. Roll out dough, cut into hearts, and freeze.
Coat in Chocolate: Melt chocolate and coconut oil, dip frozen hearts, tap off excess chocolate, and decorate as desired. Refrigerate until firm.