My Valentine's Day Guide

By Melissa Ben-Ishay

For our first Valentine’s Day, Adi and I spent the whole day icing cupcakes, and as he says, putting tiny little heart sprinkles on top. It was (and is) the busiest day for Baked by Melissa. We pour our hearts into making the day sweet for everyone and sending love across the country, and that day, Adi showed his love by standing next to me in a cold bakery. 


Because we’re always in our busiest season, we don’t make fancy Valentine’s Day plans. We’re tired. But we do always make an effort to have dinner as a family, and Feb. 14 is no exception. 

Our dream Valentine’s Day meal is in our regular dinner rotation: seared ribeye and a big salad, with cupcakes for dessert. Add potatoes if you want, but it’s not necessary. This is our tried-and-true method of making steak—it comes out perfectly every time. And if steak isn’t your jam, nothing says I love you more than this roasted beet & carrot salad (made with seasonal ingredients) and a cauliflower packed with flavor

Valentine's day menu

Dessert’s the easy part. When I think of Valentine’s Day, I think of a box of chocolates. These are inspired by those simple but decadent flavors, but they’re even better because we like to sandwich them. Pairing simple flavors makes them even better together, just like you and your loved ones. 

My favorite pairings:

  • Strawberry + Dark Chocolate (Chocolate Covered Strawberry)
  • Dark Chocolate + Dulce de Leche (Chocolate filled with Caramel)
  • Vanilla & Sprinkles + Strawberry (Strawberries & Cream)

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day gift ideas, I’ve got you. These are my and Adi's favorite things, from super soft sweaters to the kitchen tools we reach for every day. And because so many schools don't allow candy Valentines anymore, I'm sharing my favorite little trinkets to share with my kids' classmates. When in doubt, everyone loves cupcakes (and we ship nationwide). 

Valentine's Day gifts for her

Valentine's Day gifts for him

Valentines for the class

I hope you have the best Valentine's Day (or Galentine's Day!) showing everyone how much you love them.