19 Elegant French Pastry Recipes for Valentine’s Day to Gift With Love

You’ll spend forever searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day treats. You’re looking for something exquisite, like French pastries. Imagine gifting your loved one with delicate macarons or creamy éclairs. Now, you can with these 19 elegant recipes.

Classic Croissants for a Romantic Breakfast

Buttery, flaky croissants perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast, stirring to dissolve yeast.
2. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and melted butter.
4. Add yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
7. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
8. Fold the dough in thirds, like a letter, and rotate 90 degrees.
9. Roll out the dough again into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
10. Cut into long, thin triangles and roll each into a croissant shape.
11. Place on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Delicate Macarons in Assorted Flavors

Delicate Macarons in Assorted Flavors are a perfect French pastry for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Food coloring
• Filling of choice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Sift the almond flour and confectioners’ sugar into a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Add the granulated sugar to the egg whites and whip until stiff and glossy.
5. Add a few drops of food coloring to the egg mixture and mix well.
6. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture and fold gently until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove any air bubbles.
9. Allow the macarons to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form a skin.
10. Bake the macarons for 15-20 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
11. Allow the macarons to cool completely on the baking sheet.
12. Pair up the macarons by size and shape, and fill with your choice of filling.

Madeleines With a Touch of Lemon

Delicate madeleines infused with lemon zest and juice, perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter madeleine molds.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared madeleine molds.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Allow the madeleines to cool in the molds for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

French Dessert Tarts for a Sweet Surprise

Indulge in French dessert tarts for a sweet Valentine’s Day surprise.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed berries

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry blender to work it into the flour mixture.
4. Press the mixture into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
7. Arrange the mixed berries on one half of each tart, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
8. Brush the edges with the egg mixture and fold the other half over the filling.
9. Brush the tops with the remaining egg mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Allow the tarts to cool before serving.

Creamy Éclairs to Impress Your Loved Ones

Indulge in creamy éclairs, a classic French dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, and heat over medium heat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and flour, then slowly pour in the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Transfer the dough to a piping bag and pipe into long, thin strips on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Allow the éclairs to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Fill the cooled éclairs with whipped cream or custard, and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Raspberry Mille-Feuille for a Fruitful Twist

Raspberry Mille-Feuille is a French pastry with a fruitful twist.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into rectangles.
3. Bake the pastry for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and whole milk.
6. Layer the pastry, whipped cream, and raspberry jam in a serving dish.
7. Top with fresh raspberries and serve chilled.

Chocolate Soufflé for a Decadent Treat

Rich, velvety chocolate soufflé perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 3 ounces best-quality dark chocolate
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 large egg whites

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and butter six 1-cup ramekins.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler and let cool slightly.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
5. Add egg yolks to the milk mixture and whisk until smooth.
6. Add the flour mixture to the milk mixture and whisk until just combined.
7. Add the melted chocolate to the mixture and whisk until smooth.
8. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
9. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
10. Pour the mixture into the prepared ramekins and bake for 35-40 minutes.
11. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 10 minutes.
12. Run a knife around the edges of each soufflé and invert onto plates.

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée for a Rich Dessert

Rich dessert with caramelized sugar and creamy vanilla bean-infused custard.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 vanilla bean
• 3 large egg yolks
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, 1 cup granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes with vanilla bean.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
6. Gradually pour warm cream mixture into egg yolks, whisking constantly.
7. Strain mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
8. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up sides.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
10. Remove from water bath and let cool to room temperature.
11. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
12. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over top of each ramekin.
13. Caramelize sugar with a kitchen torch or under broiler.

Fresh Fruit Tarte Tatin for a Light Finish

Fresh Fruit Tarte Tatin is a perfect light dessert for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 3-4 apples, peeled and halved
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries
• 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the apple halves, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Arrange the apple mixture in a concentric circle pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Dot the top of the apple mixture with the unsalted butter pieces.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the apples and press the edges to seal.
7. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
10. Serve warm, topped with fresh fruit such as raspberries or strawberries.

Exquisite Mille-Feuille Napoleons for a Classic Look

Exquisite Mille-Feuille Napoleons offer layers of flaky pastry and sweet fillings.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup pastry cream
• 1 cup fruit preserves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the unsalted butter and use a pastry blender to work it into the flour mixture.
4. Gradually add the whole milk, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch and cut into rectangles.
6. Place the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow the pastry to cool completely before assembling the Napoleons.
8. To assemble, spread a layer of pastry cream on a cooled pastry rectangle, followed by a layer of fruit preserves.
9. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of pastry cream on top.
10. Dust the top of the Napoleon with confectioners’ sugar and serve.

Petit Fours for a Dainty Gift

Delicious petit fours for a romantic Valentine’s Day gift.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy, then add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Divide the batter into small portions and spoon onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow the petit fours to cool completely before decorating with frosting and food coloring, if desired.

Opéra Gâteau for a Dramatic Presentation

Indulge in the rich flavors of Opéra Gâteau, a multi-layered French pastry.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup coffee syrup
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate ganache

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, coffee syrup, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time, until fully incorporated.
7. Pour the batter into a prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before assembling the Opéra Gâteau.
9. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cooled cake.
10. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of ganache on top.
11. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Brioche for a Buttery and Flaky Pastry

Buttery and flaky brioche perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Combine warm milk and yeast, stir to dissolve, and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, eggs, flour, and salt to the mixture, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and mix until dough comes together.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and roll out to a 1/2-inch thickness.
7. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
8. Fold the dough in half lengthwise and roll out to a 1/2-inch thickness.
9. Cut into desired shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Let rise for 30 minutes and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Gâteau Basque for a Unique Flavor Combination

Gâteau Basque is a traditional French cake with a unique cherry and pastry cream filling.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cherry jam
• 1/2 cup pastry cream
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped cherries

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the bowl and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and place it in the prepared cake pan.
5. Spread the cherry jam over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Spoon the pastry cream over the jam and smooth the top.
7. Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and fold the dough over the filling.
8. Brush the top of the cake with the remaining egg and sprinkle with chopped cherries.
9. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

Profiteroles for a Fun and Easy Treat

Indulge in crispy, creamy profiteroles for a romantic dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar
• Whipped cream

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, water, and butter, and bring to a boil.
3. Add flour, salt, and sugar, and stir until a ball forms.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
6. Transfer dough to a piping bag and pipe small balls onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.
8. Allow profiteroles to cool before filling with whipped cream.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately.

Cannelés for a Delicate and Crusty Pastry

Delicate and crusty, cannelés are a classic French pastry perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the cannelé molds.
2. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until it starts to simmer.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and yeast.
4. Gradually pour the warm milk into the bowl with the sugar mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Add the flour, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the bowl, whisking until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cannelé molds, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 10-12 minutes.
8. Remove the cannelés from the oven and let them cool in the molds for 5 minutes.
9. Transfer the cannelés to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust the cannelés with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Tarte Flambée for a Savory and Sweet Mix

Tarte Flambée combines savory and sweet flavors in a French pastry.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1/2 cup of caramelized onions
• 1/2 cup of applewood-smoked bacon
• 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1 egg, beaten
• Fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the caramelized onions, bacon, and Gruyère cheese evenly over the pastry.
4. Drizzle the honey and Dijon mustard over the filling.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme leaves.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry to form a crust.
7. Brush the crust with the beaten egg.
8. Bake the Tarte Flambée for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm and enjoy.

French Meringues in Various Flavors

Delicate French meringues in various flavors perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Flavorings (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°F (90°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar and salt, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add the vanilla extract and any desired flavorings or food coloring, and mix until combined.
5. Spoon the meringue mixture into a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
6. Pipe small, round shapes onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry and crisp.
8. Allow the meringues to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Galette Des Rois for a Traditional French Dessert

Traditional French dessert, Galette Des Rois, filled with frangipane and puff pastry.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup frangipane
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup almond paste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the frangipane, granulated sugar, almond paste, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Spread the frangipane mixture over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with the melted butter.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
7. Use a knife to create a decorative edge around the pastry.
8. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
9. Bake the galette for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Allow the galette to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and serving.

Conclusion

You’ve mastered 19 elegant French pastry recipes, but what’s a Valentine’s Day gift without sharing them? Create delicate macarons, crispy croissants, and creamy éclairs to impress your loved ones. With these technical skills, you’ll craft beautiful desserts – will your sweetheart fall for your baking charms?