Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups (Sugar Cookie Cups with Hershey’s Hugs)

Introduction

Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are the perfect festive treat—cute, colorful, and irresistibly soft with a sweet chocolate surprise in the center. Made with a simple sugar cookie base and topped with creamy Hershey’s Hugs, these cookie cups are ideal for classroom parties, gift boxes, dessert tables, or a cozy Valentine’s night at home.

What makes these cookie cups so special is their texture and presentation. The sugar cookie dough bakes into soft, tender cups with lightly crisp edges, creating the perfect cradle for a chocolate center. As the cookies cool, the Hershey’s Hugs melt slightly, creating a creamy bite that pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie base.

This recipe is beginner-friendly and quick, using a sugar cookie mix as a shortcut without sacrificing flavor. A splash of pink or red food coloring and festive sprinkles instantly transforms these cookie cups into a Valentine’s Day showstopper. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to bring smiles.

If you’re looking for a no-stress Valentine’s dessert that looks adorable and tastes amazing, these Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are a must-bake.

Ingredients

17.5 oz package sugar cookie mix

½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 large egg, room temperature

Pink or red food coloring

24–26 Hershey’s Hugs, unwrapped

Decorative sprinkles, optional

Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard muffin tin or line with baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, melted butter, flour, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add a few drops of pink or red food coloring and mix until evenly colored.

Step 3: Portion the Dough

Scoop dough into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ⅔ full. Press gently to level the tops if needed.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden but centers are still soft.

Step 5: Form the Cookie Cups

Remove the pan from the oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Hug into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly—this is normal and adds charm. Sprinkle with decorative sprinkles if using.

Variations

Chocolate Kiss Version: Use classic chocolate kisses instead of Hugs.

Heart Sprinkle Cups: Add heart-shaped sprinkles before baking.

Red Velvet Style: Add cocoa powder and red coloring for a velvet twist.

Stuffed Cookie Cups: Add a teaspoon of frosting before pressing in chocolate.

Mini Cookie Cups: Use a mini muffin tin and adjust baking time.

Cooking Notes

Do not overbake—soft centers are key.

Press chocolates in while cookies are hot for best results.

Use room-temperature egg for smoother dough.

Allow cookies to cool slightly before removing from pan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups on a festive platter, in cupcake liners, or packaged individually as edible gifts. They’re perfect for Valentine’s parties, school treats, dessert boards, or romantic dinner desserts.

Tips

Chill dough briefly if it feels too soft.

Use a cookie scoop for even sizing.

Store in an airtight container to maintain softness.

Make ahead and decorate just before serving.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

12 minutes

Total Time

27 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie cup)

Calories: 190

Protein: 2g

Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Can I freeze Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups?
Yes, freeze without sprinkles for best appearance.

Why did my cookies crack?
Cracking is normal when pressing in chocolate and adds texture.

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely—just portion and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day Cookie Cups are a festive, foolproof dessert that combines soft sugar cookies with a sweet chocolate center for the perfect holiday treat. Easy to make, adorable to serve, and endlessly customizable, these cookie cups are guaranteed to spread love and smiles with every bite. Whether for gifting or sharing, they’re a Valentine’s classic you’ll bake year after year. 💕🍪

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