Valentine's Dessert Board With Chocolate Fondue

As Valentine's Day approaches, you may need some inspiration to jazz up the tired — but always reliable —chocolate-covered strawberriesthat inevitably find their way to your table when this holiday rolls around. (Not that there's anything wrong with them. We're just saying, there areother sweet treatsto indulge in this Feb. 14.) From indulgentValentine’s Day chocolatesto thoughtfulValentine’s Day gifts, there are plenty of ways to make the day feel extra special.

This year, try this twist on a dessert board with two types of chocolate fondue — why have one when you can have two? — and plenty of treats for dipping. It's the perfect way to surprise your loved one during yourValentine's Day at home. It also has enough goodies to share with your friends at yourGalentine's Day party. Whichever you celebrate, don't forget thecocktails!

I made two fondues for this dessert board, white chocolate, and my favorite, milk chocolate. Then, I filled the board up with all kinds ofValentine's treatsthat are perfect for dipping,such ascookiesandmini donuts. I know I said chocolate-covered strawberries were a bit blasé, but that doesn't mean they're not delicious. Go ahead and add extra chocolate withchocolate-dipped strawberriesfrom our sister brand, Shari's Berries. None of these require preparation; they can go straight from box to board.

The rest of the items require a bit of work — if you consider preparing your favorite fruits to dip into warm, melty chocolate “work." My favorites are bananas, cherries, and cute apples that areripe for showing your lovethis Valentine's Day. I also like to includepretzelssince they add a, well, salty and crunchy component. I added some decadent cake bites to the board for an extra dose of chocolate, and they pair so well with the salty pretzels. You need the salt to balance all this sweetness.

The best part of a chocolate fondue board is that every snack you include works. Valentine's Day is about treating yourself and your loved ones, so make the board up just how you like. Depending on who you're celebrating with, you can also whip up a fewcherry martinis.