Tahini isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for Valentine’s sweets, and that’s exactly why I love it. It’s nutty, rich, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. These cookies are delicate yet bold, familiar yet surprising—just like love itself. I took my beloved Game-Changing Tahini Chocolate Cookies recipe, added Valentine’s candy, and the result was pure magic.
What is Tahini?
Let me introduce you to one of my favorite ingredients! Tahini is ground sesame seeds. That’s it! It has a delicious earthy and nutty flavor.
Ingredients Overview
*The full recipe is in the recipe card below!
Before you start baking using this cookie recipe, measure and prepare your ingredients so the cooking process will go smoothly and easily.
Tahini: Runny tahini is key. This recipe works best with runny tahini that will easily mix with the other ingredients. Tahini brands vary widely in consistency, so look for one with a smooth, pourable texture. I like (affiliate links) Soom, Baron, and Seed+Mill.
Butter: Unsalted and softened to room temperature. Allow the butter to sit out on the counter for about 1-2 hours before starting your recipe. The amount of time depends on the weather and how cool you keep your kitchen.
Add-ins: Valentine candy like M&M, sprinkles, candy hearts, white and dark chocolate chopped…
FAQ’S
Allow the cookies to cool completely at room temperature. Line an airtight container with wax paper or parchment paper. You can also use a resealable plastic bag. Place the cookies in a single layer in the container or bag. If you need to stack the cookies, place a layer of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. Seal the container or bag tightly.
Store the cookies at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight for up to 5 days.
If you want to store the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw frozen cookies, leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight.
Like soft-baked, gooey circles of happiness. They have crisp edges, soft-baked centers, and warm, melty chocolate throughout.
Craving More Tahini?
Homemade Chocolate Tahini Spread
Valentine Tahini Cookies
Description
Equipment
- Ice cream/cookie scoop optional
Ingredients
- 1 stick (110g) butter at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120g) tahini paste (raw tahini)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/3 cup (185g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 Teaspoon (4g) baking soda
- 1 Teaspoon (6g) baking powder
- 1 cup Valentine candy like M&M, sprinkles, candy hearts, white and dark chocolate chopped…
- 1 Teaspoon sea salt optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C.
- In a stand mixer with a flat beater, combine butter, tahini, and sugars. Turn on to medium speed and beat until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla, and increase speed, beating until fluffy.
- Turn off the mixer and add flour, baking soda, baking powder, and mix on low speed until combined.
- Using a spatula, fold in the candy until evenly spread.
- Place the dough in the refrigerator and let it chill for 1 hour.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space out the cookies.
- Sprinkle salt *optional* over the dough.
- Bake for 10–14 minutes until lightly golden and the tops are crackly.
- Let the cookies cool in the pan for a few minutes and then transfer to a wire rack.