This Valentine’s Day, do something a little different from the usual treats, why not bake with sourdough? The shapes can be adorable, but the flavor will be rich, unique, and unforgettable.
And who says Valentine’s Day has to be all about sweets? In this collection, I’ve also included cute and delicious savory options, so you can enjoy them at breakfast, dinner, or any time you like.
These recipes are guaranteed to impress your loved ones. Try them out and make this Valentine’s Day extra special, flavorful, and memorable❤️
More Valentine-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love:
- Strawberry Milkshake Cookies
- Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cookies
- Strawberry Red Velvet Cake
1. Heart‑Shaped Sourdough Bread (Perfect for Valentine’s Day)
There’s nothing quite like giving someone a loaf of homemade sourdough especially when it’s shaped like a heart. This recipe is surprisingly easy, and the result is a soft, golden-brown loaf that looks as lovely as it tastes. You can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a centerpiece for your Valentine’s brunch.
Prep & Cook Time: 3 hours (including proofing)
Difficulty: Medium
Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) water, lukewarm
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Mix the dough
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, and flour. Mix until there are no dry spots. Add salt and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. - First rise
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 1–2 hours, or until it roughly doubles in size. - Shape into hearts
Gently deflate the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long. Form a heart shape by connecting the ends and pressing the bottom point slightly. - Second proof
Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking tray. Cover and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes. - Score and bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Make a small slit at the top of each heart for a professional look. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. - Cool and serve
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Brush with olive oil for shine, if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried herbs for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- You can add a little grated cheese or garlic into the dough for a savory twist.
- This heart-shaped bread pairs beautifully with butter, jam, or even chocolate spread perfect for Valentine’s breakfast in bed.
Trust me your loved ones will be impressed and delighted by this edible token of affection!
2. Sourdough Valentine’s Cookies
Cookies are my go-to for Valentine’s Day they’re sweet, shareable, and there’s something so about cutting out little heart shapes for your loved ones. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect as gifts or a little treat with your morning coffee.
Prep & Cook Time: 20 minutes prep + 12 minutes baking
Difficulty: Easy
Serves: 12–16 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard (unfed or discard from your starter)
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional for decoration: pink/red sprinkles, royal icing, or chocolate drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Stir in the sourdough discard until fully incorporated. - Mix dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. - Shape the hearts
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. - Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. - Cool and decorate
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before decorating. Use sprinkles, royal icing, or melted chocolate to make them festive and extra special.
Tips & Variations
- For extra indulgence, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or candy.
- You can swap in brown sugar for a richer, caramel flavor.
- These cookies can also be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Honestly, decorating them with sprinkles and chocolate is half the fun, and I love doing it while sharing a cup of hot cocoa.
3. Chocolate Sourdough Dessert Recipes to Impress
Chocolate + sourdough a match made in dessert heaven. I love using sourdough starter or discard in chocolate recipes because that makes the dessert taste more sophisticated without being overpowering. These treats are perfect for Valentine’s Day when you want to impress your loved ones with something surprisingly easy to make. From rich brownies to fudgy chocolate tarts, these recipes will make your heart (and theirs!) melt.
Prep & Cook Time: 25–45 minutes depending on recipe
Difficulty: Medium
Serves: 6–8 (adjust as needed)
Recipe 1: Fudgy Chocolate Sourdough Brownies
These brownies are my personal favorite dense, fudgy, and with just a whisper of tang from the sourdough. They’re perfect for slicing into little hearts or serving in squares with powdered sugar dusted on top.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120g) sourdough starter discard
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prep and melt
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Melt the butter and chocolate together in a microwave or double boiler until smooth. - Mix wet ingredients
Stir in the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sourdough discard until fully combined. - Add dry ingredients
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold into the wet mixture until no streaks remain. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs. - Cool and serve
Let brownies cool completely before slicing. Optional: use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut individual brownies for a festive Valentine’s touch.
Recipe 2: Chocolate Sourdough Mug Cake (Single-Serve Love)
Sometimes you just want chocolate right now. This mug cake is perfect for a quick Valentine’s treat, using sourdough discard for a surprisingly moist and fluffy texture.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sourdough starter discard
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce
Instructions
- Mix ingredients
In a microwave-safe mug, combine all ingredients and stir until smooth. - Microwave
Microwave on high for 60–90 seconds, until the cake has risen and set. - Serve
Let it cool slightly before digging in. Top with chocolate chips, whipped cream, or a heart-shaped candy for a Valentine’s touch.
Tips & Variations
- You can swap the cocoa powder for dark cocoa for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Heart-shaped molds make desserts instantly Valentine’s-ready.
- For a richer treat, add 1/4 cup chopped chocolate or nuts to your brownies or mug cake.
4. Sourdough Discard Valentine’s Treats
I’ve always loved finding ways to use my sourdough discard, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to get creative. These treats are not just a great way to reduce waste they’re fun, sweet, and full of heart. From soft pancakes to quick muffins, these recipes turn your leftover starter into something special your loved ones will adore.
Prep & Cook Time: 15–35 minutes depending on recipe
Difficulty: Easy
Serves: 2–6
Recipe 1: Heart-Shaped Sourdough Pancakes
Breakfast in bed just got a Valentine’s upgrade! Using sourdough discard makes these pancakes extra fluffy and lightly tangy. They’re soft, warm, and perfect for decorating with syrup, berries, or even chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120g) sourdough discard
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp melted butter or oil, plus more for the pan
- Optional toppings: berries, syrup, chocolate chips, powdered sugar
Instructions
- Mix wet ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, milk, egg, and sugar until smooth. - Add dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold into the wet mixture until just combined. - Cook pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and brush lightly with butter or oil. Pour batter into heart shapes using a spoon or mold. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. - Serve warm
Stack pancakes and decorate with berries, syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Recipe 2: Sourdough Discard Mini Muffins (Sweet & Tangy)
Mini muffins are my favorite because they’re bite-sized, perfect for sharing, and you can dress them up for Valentine’s Day with chocolate chips or sprinkles.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (120g) sourdough discard
- 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) oil or melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup (45g) chocolate chips or berries
Instructions
- Preheat oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. - Mix wet ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth. - Add dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Fold into the wet mixture. Stir in chocolate chips or berries. - Bake
Spoon batter into mini muffin cups, filling about 3/4 full. Bake 12–15 minutes until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean. - Cool and enjoy
Let cool slightly before serving. Perfect for a Valentine’s brunch or gifting in a little box with a ribbon.
Tips & Variations
- You can swap chocolate chips for small candies or dried fruit for a fun twist.
- Heart-shaped molds aren’t just for pancakes you can use them for muffins too!
- These recipes are a great way to sneak in sourdough flavor without committing to a full loaf and they feel like love in every bite.
5. Romantic Valentine’s Day Sourdough Breakfast Ideas
love starting Valentine’s morning with a meal that’s both thoughtful and simple it doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special. From heart-shaped toast to savory breakfast bowls, these ideas make your morning feel festive and full of love for your loved ones.
Prep & Cook Time: 10–25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Serves: 2–4
Recipe 1: Heart-Shaped Sourdough Toast with Toppings
This is one of my favorite ways to make breakfast feel romantic without spending hours in the kitchen. You can get creative with spreads and toppings sweet, savory, or both!
Ingredients
- 2–4 slices of sourdough bread
- Butter, cream cheese, or nut butter for spreading
- Fresh fruit: strawberries, raspberries, banana slices
- Optional toppings: chia seeds, honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter (optional)
Instructions
- Shape the toast
Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the sourdough slices into hearts, or simply toast the whole slice and decorate it. - Toast lightly
Toast the bread to your preferred crispiness. - Add toppings
Spread butter, cream cheese, or nut butter on each slice. Arrange fruit on top and add a drizzle of honey or sprinkle of cinnamon. - Serve with love
Stack the heart-shaped toast on a plate, add a few fresh berries on the side, and serve warm with coffee or tea.
Recipe 2: Sourdough Breakfast Skillet
For something a little heartier, I love this breakfast skillet. It’s packed with flavor perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of sourdough bread, cubed
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare skillet
Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add cubed sourdough and toast until golden. - Add vegetables
Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts. - Cook eggs
Make two wells in the skillet and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs are done to your liking. - Finish with cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover briefly to melt. Season with salt and pepper. - Serve warm
Serve directly in the skillet for a rustic, cozy presentation. Perfect for a Valentine’s morning in bed or a shared breakfast at the table.
Tips & Variations
- Toast bread in a heart shape for extra Valentine’s flair.
- Add avocado, smoked salmon, or sautéed mushrooms for more variety.
- Pair with a hot cup of cocoa, latte, or sparkling juice for a complete romantic breakfast.
Honestly, even the simplest heart-shaped toast feels extra special when made with care and the best part is sharing it with someone who makes your heart happy.
6. Heart-Shaped Sourdough Pizza for a Fun Dinner
Who says Valentine’s Day has to be all sweets? I love surprising my loved ones with something savory, fun, and totally shareable. This heart-shaped sourdough pizza is one of my favorite ways to combine homemade bread, melty cheese, and fresh toppings into a romantic dinner. It’s also a great way to use your sourdough starter for more than just breakfast or dessert!
Prep & Cook Time: 1–1.5 hours (including dough rise)
Difficulty: Medium
Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 cup (180ml) water (adjust as needed)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Optional: olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Make the dough
In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, water, and olive oil. Add flour and salt, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes). Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 4–6 hours depending on room temperature. - Shape into a heart
Once risen, gently punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface. Use your hands or a knife to shape the dough into a large heart. - Pre-bake the crust
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Transfer the heart-shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake for 5–7 minutes until it just starts to firm up. - Add toppings
Spread tomato sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and arrange your toppings. Add a few basil leaves for freshness. - Bake to perfection
Return the pizza to the oven and bake 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden. - Serve and enjoy
Slice carefully and serve warm. Bonus points for adding extra heart-shaped toppings like peppers or small mozzarella hearts!
Tips & Variations
- Make mini heart-shaped pizzas for an adorable couple’s dinner or party.
- Swap the tomato sauce for pesto or a white garlic sauce for a different flavor twist.
- Use leftover sourdough discard to make a quick pizza dough it adds subtle tang and makes the crust extra flavorful.
Honestly, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone smile the homemade crust, melty cheese, and heart shape just say love in every bite.