Alisa Fleming ~ At times (okay, not a lot of times, but occasionally) I think the economic downturn was a blessing in disguise. For years it seemed the gifts were getting bigger, more expensive, and difficult to select. But now, as people cutback, the creativity and heart is truly emerging. Over the holidays I was overwhelmed to see all of the wonderful gifts that people made for their loved ones and friends, whether a hand-knitted scarf or a delicious gift from the kitchen.

But who says homemade gifts should only be given in the last month of the year? What about that precious holiday known as Valentine's Day? You know, the one where giving gifts from the heart means even more.

Of course, some of you, like me, may have been skipped when the crafty gene was passed on. So, I thought some simple but delicious recipes for Valentine gifts from the dairy-free kitchen might be just the kind of thing you have been looking for. Here are links to some of our favorites:

 Vegan Chocolate Cherry "Cheesecake"

You will be amazed by both the decadence and the simplicity of this luxurious dessert.

Strawberry Love Muffins 

A heart shaped muffin pan really sends this baked treat over the top.

Peanut Butter Pretzel Chocolate Hearts 

A fun one to make with kids! Of course, you can skip the pretzels and go with the original peanut butter truffle recipe for an equally delicious treat.

Miniature Chocolate-Covered Cheesecake Bites of Love

Oh my. Another dairy-free cheesecake-inspired indulgence, but this one is soy-free and downright healthy, to boot!

Overnight Vegan Double-the-Cinnamon Rolls 

Okay, so it isn't heart shaped, nor chocolate, but who wouldn't love to wake up to one (or three) of these?

I'm Choco for You Candies

Four simple ingredients for one scrumptious little treat. 

Quadruple Chocolate Vegan Muffin-Cakes

For loved ones who prefer your chocolate in cake form. Yes, there is frosting too.

Red Hot Dark Chocolate Pudding made with Coconut MIlk

Spiked with chipotle pepper, this rich and creamy pudding is sure to spice up your Valentine's day.

Le Seitan de l’Amour

Who says only sweets must be given at Valentine's Day? Enjoy this savory dish during a romantic candlelight dinner for two!

Red Velvet Cake with Velvet Frosting

Okay, this one requires a little more effort than most of the others on this list, but talk about an impressive "Be My Valentine" recipe. 

More Lovely Recipes ...

Gluten-Free Chocolate Cherry Drop Scones

Sweet Potato Truffles

Roasted Red Pepper Soup with Dreamy Hearts

Easy Vegan Truffles

Strawberry Chocolate "Heart-Cakes"

Vegan Sweet Heart Toast

Hearty Vegetarian Ravioli

Idea: Heart-Shaped Cheese-Free Pizza

Idea: Heart-Shaped Sugar Cookies (Frosted if you wish) - Gluten-Free or Vegan

Pictured at the Beginning of this article: Chocolate Cherry Truffles (heart-shaped) from My Sweet Vegan

Article by Alisa Fleming, founder of GoDairyFree.org and author of the best-selling book, Go Dairy Free: The Guide and Cookbook for Milk Allergies, Lactose Intolerance, and Casein-Free Living. Alisa is also a freelance writer for several publications and a recipe creator for the natural food industry with an emphasis on dairy-free living and other special diets.