In my kitchen, heart-shaped brownies always create a buzz of excitement. Perfect for celebrating special moments—whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just because—you’ll be amazed at how easy they are to whip up. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and a hint of berry sweetness transforms a simple brownie into a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s about the joy of sharing something special. These heart-shaped brownies are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors that resonate with both romantic and familial love. Ideal for every occasion, they can brighten up a weeknight dinner, add a sweet touch to a family brunch, or steal the show at holiday festivities.
"These brownies are not just delicious; they’re a centerpiece of love and creativity in dessert form!" – A happy baker
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating these heart-shaped brownies is an enjoyable journey that blends textures and tastes seamlessly. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- Cook down luscious raspberries to make a zesty sauce.
- Prepare a rich cream cheese layer for that decadent flavor.
- Combine the brownie batter to create a fudgy base.
- Assemble and bake to perfection!
Gather These Items
To make these delightful heart-shaped brownies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 3/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 + 2 tbsp cup refined coconut oil or neutral oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Raspberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Cook over medium heat for about 5–8 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, strain it to remove the seeds and set this fruity delight aside.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/3 cup of sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Mix the Brownie Batter: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the coconut oil, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into this mixture until just blended.
Assemble the Brownies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the brownie batter evenly across the bottom. Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture on top, and then dollop the raspberry sauce over it. Use a skewer to gently create swirls for visual appeal.
Bake and Cool: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer them to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavors.
Cut and Serve: Once chilled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to slice your brownies into delightful hearts, perfect for sharing!
Creative Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these heart-shaped brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delectable contrast. You might also consider pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate. For a fun twist, drizzle extra raspberry sauce over the top for added sweetness.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your leftover heart-shaped brownies, simply place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy items are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Sifting Cocoa Powder: Sifting your cocoa powder will ensure there are no lumps in your brownie mixture, contributing to a silky batter.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until blended for the best texture in your brownies.
Use Quality Chocolate: If you prefer, mixing in some semi-sweet chocolate chips can enhance the chocolate flavor and texture!
Creative Twists
Consider experimenting with different berries like strawberries or blueberries in the sauce. For a nutty twist, you can add chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) into the brownie batter. If gluten-free is the goal, swap your flour for a gluten-free blend without sacrificing taste.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 350 | 5g | 50g | 15g | 2g | 30g |
With these heart-shaped brownies, you’ll not only create a delicious dessert but also spread love and joy with every bite. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
