Description
Celebrate love with these delightful Valentine Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Brownies. This recipe combines the rich, moist texture of classic red velvet brownies with a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting, all cut into charming heart shapes perfect for any romantic occasion. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, these treats are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk)
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. If you’re using a heart-shaped mold, grease and flour it instead.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vinegar. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan or heart-shaped mold. Spread the batter evenly, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before removing them.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until fluffy and light.
- Cut and Decorate: Once the brownies have cooled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut them into heart shapes. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each heart-shaped brownie, or pipe frosting on top for a decorative finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Valentine’s Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Brownies as a delightful treat for your loved ones. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea!
Notes
- For the best texture, ensure butter is fully melted and slightly cooled before mixing with sugar.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1/2 tsp lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup milk as a substitute.
- Use gel red food coloring for more vibrant color without affecting batter consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.
