LABORS OF LOVE: TIPS AND IDEAS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY
Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to let your significant other know how much you care. Whether you have been together for one year, or fifty years, doing something a little out of the ordinary is a great way to invest in your relationship and make him or her feel extra special. In addition to sharing your kind thoughts and words, here are a few creative options and sweet treats for a memorable day.
Cupcake Bouquet: I am very intrigued by this idea. You may be able to purchase these at a bakery, for instance, at Baked Bouquet in New Jersey (bakedbouquet.com). However, if you are willing to take on the challenge at home, be sure to watch a few tutorials like this one here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LS--hKFkVhg.
A tip I would suggest when making this for the first time would be to use the same size pot as the Styrofoam ball, or one slightly smaller. This way the ball sits a little deeper into the pot, and the cupcakes are not totally defying gravity. Another tip to prevent the bouquet from being too top-heavy would be to add some weights at the bottom of the pot.
Raspberry Heart Cheesecake: I tested this recipe a few years ago. It looked beautiful, but was much too sweet for my taste with the added white chocolate. I would recommend instead using a plain cheesecake batter before adding the raspberry droplets. Another tip: If your heart droplets do not turn out as planned, use a toothpick to make it a marbled swirl instead! Get the directions here: http://www.cookingclassy.com/white-chocolate-raspberry-cheesecake-2/
Breakfast idea: For those looking for something a little easier to whip up, how about making breakfast with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice topped with mint, pancakes cutout with heart cookie cutters, and a side of bacon and eggs. Wake up 30 minutes early to whip this up and enjoy breakfast together in bed.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Who doesn’t love chocolate and fruit? A few quick tips in making chocolate strawberries: One, make sure to dry the strawberries completely before dipping them into the chocolate. Otherwise the chocolate starts to clump and the strawberry will not have that smooth, effortless look. Two, to jazz them up, consider rolling the dipped strawberries in chopped peanuts or crushed Oreos for added texture and visual appeal.
Ambiance: If you choose to have dinner in, set the table! A few tea light candles and flowers go a long way in creating a warm loving atmosphere. Here is a simple centerpiece of flower petals, water, a bowl, and floating candles for something a bit unique. And sit down together, relax, and enjoy each other’s company! The rest of the year is ahead of you to live and love together.