5 Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Ideas That Are Big on Love (Not on Cost)

5 Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Ideas That Are Big on Love (Not on Cost)

Too often we think of Valentines Day as a ‘Hallmark’ holiday where people are expected to buy expensive roses, chocolates and book lavish meals but Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean expensive gifts and fancy dinners. The best celebrations come from the heart, not your wallet. If you’re celebrating with a partner, consider these budget-friendly ideas to help you create meaningful memories without emptying your pockets.

1. Valentine’s Day Breakfast in Bed: Surprise your partner with a delicious start to the day. Maybe make some heart-shaped pancakes and serve them with fresh fruit, and coffee or tea served in bed. Add a handwritten note for a special touch.
2. Bake Something Special: Baking together isn’t just about making something delicious. Weather you sprinkle flour on each other or laugh over a “baking fail” it will be a fun memory. (Keep reading for a delicious & healthy brownie recipe)
3. Cook Dinner Together: Plan a themed meal, try a new recipe or simply make a favourite meal and enjoy cooking as a team.
4. DIY Candlelit Dinner: Transform your dining table with candles, soft music and maybe even some faux flower.
5. DIY Movie Night: Create a cozy at-home cinema with blankets, popcorn, and a rom-com (or horror, if that’s your thing, we don’t judge).

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love and connection, not overspending. We hope these budget-friendly ideas can help you create a day that’s memorable and meaningful without stretching your wallet. Love is priceless, and it’s the little things that truly count.

Indulge in the richest, fudgiest brownies―surprisingly made with sweet potatoes. These ultra-fudgy sweet potato brownies are naturally sweetened and deeply chocolatey. They’re the perfect treat to bake for Valentines Day (indulgence without the guilt).

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250 mL) mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) almond butter
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) vegan protein powder (chocolate)
• 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) dairy-free chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 F (180 C). Line 8 x 8-inch (20 x 20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In bowl, mix sweet potatoes, almond butter, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, protein powder, and vanilla until just smooth. Do not overmix. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour batter into baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until edges are set but centre remains fudgy. Do not overbake.
3. Cool completely before cutting into squares to ensure the middle is completely set.

FeelGood Tips: you can use any nut butter (the taste may change a bit), you can substitute Vanilla extract in a 1:1 ratio for the Vanilla bean paste, use any chocolate chips or protein powder you have on hand.

Maximum fudge-factor

To get ultra-fudgy brownies, make sure not to overbake. The centre should still look slightly undercooked when you take them out of the oven—they’ll firm up as they cool, leaving you with that perfect gooey texture.

Kaha Nutrition New Zealand Whey Isolate (Vanilla):

ATP LAB Supreme Beef Protein (Dark Chocolate):

ATP LAB Grass Fed Whey Protein (Organic Dark Chocolate):

Botanica Perfect Protein (Chocolate):