From red velvet cake and chocolate torte to gluten-free cupcakes – as Valentine’s gifts go, a good chocolate cake is top of our list! We spoke to local Derbyshire bakers and chefs, before trawling our recipe archives, to bring you some baking inspiration.
1. Red Velvet Cake by The Cake Nest
This is a quick and easy cake to make, don’t be put off by the beetroot, it really adds to the colour and moistness of the cake. Read more…
2. Chocolate Fondant by Blacksmith’s Loft
For a perfect after-dinner Valentine’s treat, try these gooey-in-the-middle chocolate desserts. Timing may be everything when achieving the perfect chocolate fondant – but even if you over-cook them, we still think they taste delicious! Read more…
3. Chocolate torte with Chantilly cream, blueberries and orange syrup
Seriously rich, this chocolate torte doesn’t need to be cooked in the oven – just chill it in the fridge. Make it in advance, leaving you more time to prepare the rest of your Valentine’s feast. Read more…
4. Gluten Free Chocolate and Cinnamon Cupcakes by Cameo Cupcakes
The apples and sultanas add a sweetness to the flavour and a chewy texture to these more-ish cupcakes. Aromatic cinnamon enhances the flavour of the chocolate cake, which has been finished with a slightly crunchy baked crust and smooth chocolate ganache topping. The sponge will stay moist for several days. Read more…
5. Gluten Free Chocolate Cake with Strawberries and Raspberries
This gluten free bake is very easy to make and brilliant for people with or without wheat intolerances. The strawberries and raspberries cut perfectly through the richness of this chocolate cake. Read more…
6. ‘Death by Chocolate’ Cake by Cameo Cupcakes
This gluten free recipe is a very rich, but light, chocolate cake. Made without flour or nuts it is perfect for those with wheat or nut allergies . Read more…
7. Chocolate and Beetroot Tart
Fancy one of your 5 a day in a chocolate dessert? Ok, so maybe it’s not quite guilt-free, but give this delicious chocolate and beetroot recipe a try and you won’t regret it! Read more…
8. Chocolate and Coconut Cupcakes
These are sure to be a crowd pleaser, moist chocolate sponge topped with a coconut and chocolate fudge frosting. Go on, indulge! Read more…
9. Chocolate Fudge Cake
Every baker needs a good chocolate fudge cake recipe in their repertoire. Read more…
10. Hot Chocolate Tart with Lemon Curd Ice Cream and Salted Caramel Popcorn
Hot, rich chocolate filling paired with cool zingy lemon – what’s not to like? Don’t be afraid to cheat on this one and buy your pastry ready-made. Read more…
If you want to head out for a drink to finish off your Valentine’s Day celebrations then try a cocktail at one of Derby’s top bars, or if you’re more of an ale fan then head to one of the top 8 real ale pubs in the county.
Tweet us the results of your Valentine’s baking @derbyshirelife
