Every year the prices of candy, chocolate, and roses balloon during this time. Instead of overpaying, I rather spend time in my kitchen making inexpensive treats to give out for Valentine’s Day. Below I share quick and easy recipes to make and share with others.

PB&J Thumbprint

I like making thumbprint cookies because they are so versatile. You can make them with different flavor jams or chocolate. The PB&J version I’m making this weekend for my sister is also healthy! I found this thumbprint recipe in Shape mag. These are also fun to make if you have children. Their little fingers are perfect for making the dents.

Chocolate Strawberries

This tasty treat is simple to make and costs less than buying them at fancy chocolate store. I’m looking at you Godiva! All you have to do is buy a nice chunk of chocolate and melt it. If you can’t find inexpensive strawberries, try other fruit. Bananas dipped in chocolate with festive sprinkles are also yummy.

Fruit Arrangements

Whether you make simple fruit kabobs or go all out with fancy fruit arrangements, these are cheaper to make than buy. You can find skewers at the dollar store and buy fruit that is in season to cut costs. Fruit arrangements are also a nice gift on it’s own. You’ll need florist’s foam and a nice vase to hold the arrangement. Here are instructions on how to fruit arrangements.

Sugar Cookies

These cookies take a bit longer to make, but that’s only because you have to refrigerate them for about two hours. Kids can also help to make these. They’ll especially like decorating the cookies. No need to go out and buy cookie cutters! I usually grab a can of whatever is in the pantry to cut the cookies. Make sure to clean the empty can thoroughly. For heart shapes, see if there’s anything else around your home you can use. Alton Brown’s Sugar Cookies recipe is my go-to recipe.

To make your own goody bags head to the dollar store to find cellophane baggies or small containers. Want to skip one more expense? Let the cookies cool completely in a baking sheet and then transfer them to a plastic container. It’ll even make it easier to carry. I’m using small takeout containers I bought last year after Valentine’s Day for $.50 a pack!

Check out Bobbi’s post about homemade Valentine’s Day gifts for more ideas. Are you making any goodies for your kid’s friends or your friends? What are your go-to recipes?