Roses? Been there, done that. A box of chocolates? Well, okay.

But if you really want to impress your honey this Valentine's holiday, why not make them a gift that truly comes from the heart? A homemade treat, lovingly prepared, can be a wonderful way to express how much that special someone means to you, and will likely cost a lot less than a dozen red roses. Here are a few ideas and recipes to help show some love:

Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Baker's makes a special chocolate especially for hand-dipping. All you have to do is heat it up in the microwave, then dip whatever fruit (strawberries, dried apricots, pineapple slices, you name it) you like into the melted chocolate. Lay the dipped fruit dry on a cookie sheet covered in wax paper, then slip the tray into the refrigerator until the chocolate is firm.

This Valentine's Day, borrow a trick from a hot restaurant trend: mini-desserts. Instead of icing, top these treats with a drizzle of melted chocolate to create a decidedly grown-up dessert.

· 3 cups flour

· 2 teaspoons cocoa powder

· 3/4 teaspoon salt

· 3/4 cup butter, room temperature

· 2-1/4 cups sugar

· 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

· 3 eggs, room temperature

· 2 tablespoons red food coloring

· 1-1/2 cups buttermilk

· 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

· 1-1/2 teaspoons vinegar

· 1 package Baker's Chocolate Dipping Sauce

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder and salt; set aside.

In large mixing bowl, beat butter on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar and vanilla and beat until combined.

Add eggs one at a time, beating on medium after each egg.

Add food coloring and beat on low until mixed thoroughly.

Alternate flour mixture and buttermilk to egg mixture; beat on medium-low after each until combined.

Mix baking soda and vinegar in a separate small bowl. Add mixture to the batter; beat until combined.

Fill cupcake liners 1/2 to 3/4 full. Bake for 10-15 minutes; remove from oven and let cool.

While cupcakes are baking, melt dipping sauce according to package directions.

Drizzle melted sauce over cupcakes; serve immediately.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Ready In:

30 minutes