By worldlive 
Sweetest Secrets Revealed: Kentuckians Dish on Their Favorite Valentine’s Day Treats to Share with Their ‘Sweet’ – A Delicious Kentucky Tradition!…
Valentine’s Day in Kentucky isn’t just about flowers and love letters—it’s about celebrating affection with a distinctively sweet touch. As the day of love approaches, Kentuckians are eager to share their favorite treats with their “sweet,” creating a deliciously rich tradition that reflects the state’s unique flavors and heartfelt warmth. From classic confections to regional specialties, Kentucky’s favorite Valentine’s Day sweets bring families, lovers, and friends together with a mouthwatering blend of nostalgia and creativity.
For many, Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without a box of chocolates. However, in Kentucky, this simple treat is often given a local twist. Bourbon balls, a true Kentucky favorite, are a top contender. These rich, chocolate-covered treats filled with bourbon-soaked pecans and sweet, sugary centers capture the heart and soul of the state’s most iconic spirit. For Kentuckians, sharing a bourbon ball isn’t just about indulging in chocolate—it’s about savoring a taste of Kentucky’s heritage.
“My husband always knows to grab a box of bourbon balls for me,” says Lexington native Allison Jenkins. “They’re my favorite way to sweeten up Valentine’s Day, and it’s just the perfect Kentucky twist on a timeless tradition. Plus, they have that little kick of bourbon, which makes them unforgettable!”
But bourbon balls aren’t the only Kentucky confection making a splash on Valentine’s Day. For those seeking something lighter, the classic Derby pie is another fan favorite. Though often associated with the Kentucky Derby, this rich pie, filled with chocolate, nuts, and a hint of bourbon, holds a special place in the hearts of those celebrating love. The Derby pie’s warm, gooey filling and crumbly crust are perfect for sharing, making it a beloved dessert for couples and families alike on February 14.
“I love to bake a Derby pie for my sweetheart every year,” says Rachel Allen from Louisville. “It’s my tradition—there’s something about the way the chocolate and nuts blend together with that bourbon flavor that feels so special. It’s a treat you just don’t find anywhere else, and it’s something I always associate with Kentucky.”
For those who want something a bit more playful and personal, chocolate-covered strawberries are a hit in Kentucky as well. Dipped in rich, velvety chocolate and often infused with flavors like bourbon or mint, these strawberries capture the essence of romance. Whether homemade or from a local chocolatier, chocolate-covered strawberries are a simple yet meaningful way to share a sweet moment with someone special.
“There’s something so romantic about chocolate-covered strawberries,” says Jeremy Cooper of Bowling Green. “They’re just so simple, but when you add Kentucky bourbon to them, it makes them feel like they’ve been elevated. It’s like giving your ‘sweet’ a piece of Kentucky with every bite!”
Local candy shops across Kentucky are also getting in on the Valentine’s Day magic, offering everything from handmade truffles to heart-shaped confections infused with local ingredients. For example, the famous Ruth Hunt Candies in Mount Sterling has been crafting chocolates since 1921 and is known for creating delicious Valentine’s Day-themed treats, such as heart-shaped boxes filled with gourmet chocolates.
And then, there’s the traditional “Kentucky Kiss,” a delicate, chocolate-covered marshmallow and caramel creation. The treat, popular in local candy shops, is a fun way to share a sweet kiss on Valentine’s Day, and many Kentuckians love to gift these little delights to friends and loved ones.
“Valentine’s Day wouldn’t feel the same without Kentucky’s special candies,” says Jennifer Mason from Frankfort. “Each year, I make sure to get a box of Kentucky Kisses and share them with my friends. It’s a sweet, sentimental tradition we’ve had for years. They’re the perfect mix of nostalgia and sweetness!”
But it’s not just the chocolates and pies that make Kentucky’s Valentine’s Day treats stand out. The state’s tradition of hospitality and warmth extends to the culinary world, with bakeries and dessert makers offering personalized cakes and cupcakes designed with love. From red velvet cupcakes to heart-shaped shortbread cookies, Kentucky bakers are adding a personal touch to the day of love.
“I love making heart-shaped sugar cookies for my kids every year,” says Amy Fitzgerald of Covington. “It’s a tradition I’ve passed down from my grandmother, and now my kids enjoy decorating them. It’s these little things that make Valentine’s Day in Kentucky so special.”
Whether you’re sharing bourbon balls, Derby pie, or simply a homemade dessert, one thing is clear—Valentine’s Day in Kentucky is all about the sweet treats that bring people together. These delightful and sometimes decadent confections are a reflection of Kentucky’s love for both tradition and innovation, ensuring that every Valentine’s Day is filled with sweetness and love that only the Bluegrass State can offer.
So, this February 14th, Kentuckians are not just sharing their hearts—they’re sharing their most beloved and delicious creations, continuing a delicious tradition of love, family, and indulgence that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening with your “sweet” or hosting a big gathering, there’s no better way to show you care than with a bite of Kentucky’s finest treats.