Preparation

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that nothing says “I love you” quite like a box of chocolates. That’s why it’s the ideal Valentine’s Day gift for your sweetheart or even yourself (self-care, anyone?). A box of truffles or bonbons also makes an excellent dessert if you’re cooking a romantic dinner at home. Instead of worrying about your soufflé falling or fussing with tempered chocolate, serve the chocolates as your grand finale. And while there’s a time and place for the drugstore variety, why not take your token of affection to the next level by picking out something more unique?

You probably know your Valentine’s preference when it comes to chocolates: Are they a fan of truffles? Do they prefer milk chocolate or gravitate towards dark? If they have dietary limitations, it’s important to choose carefully—the good news is that there are excellent boxed chocolates just right for vegans, those following a gluten-free diet, nut-free selections, and more. Here, we’ve gathered selections from some of our favorite chocolatiers, heritage brands, chef-made collections, women-owned brands, and more for gifting on Valentine’s Day.