Name: Heart Shaped Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 tablespoons cup refined coconut oil or neutral oil; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 large eggs, room temperature

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Heart Shaped Brownies are a perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake, making them an ideal treat for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence on any day. These delightful brownies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just looking to sweeten up someone’s day, this recipe brings joy in every bite.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless brownie recipes out there, but what sets these Heart Shaped Brownies apart is their luscious raspberry swirl and creamy cheesecake topping. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that transcends the ordinary chocolate treat. Plus, this heart-shaped version adds a personal touch that’s perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, you’ll find that this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Make Heart Shaped Brownies

Making Heart Shaped Brownies from scratch is not only fun but also rewarding. Follow this simple guide, and you’ll have these adorable and delicious treats ready in no time!

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

First, prepare the raspberry sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Simmer over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes until thickened. Once thickened, strain the mixture to remove the seeds and set it aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/3 cup of sugar until smooth. Add the egg and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl, and mix until creamy and well blended.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. In another large mixing bowl, combine the coconut oil, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is blended. Avoid overmixing; you want the batter to be cohesive but not overworked.
Spread the brownie batter evenly in a lined baking pan. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and gently spoon the raspberry sauce on top. Using a skewer or a knife, swirl the raspberry sauce into the cheesecake mixture to create a marbled effect.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting.
Once cooled and chilled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the brownies and serve them as delightful heart-shaped treats.

Pro Tips for Success Heart Shaped Brownies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing. This will help create a smoother blend and a light texture in your cheesecake layer.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mixing just until blended will yield the best results; overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
High-Quality Cocoa: Opt for high-quality Dutch-process cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor in your brownies.
Proper Cooling: Ensure the brownies cool completely before cutting. This step helps maintain their shape and makes them easier to handle.
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it easier to lift the brownies out once they’ve cooled, allowing for cleaner edges when cutting.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle some chocolate sauce on top when serving for that extra touch.

Flavor Variations Heart Shaped Brownies

Berry Bliss: Instead of raspberries, try using strawberries or blueberries to create a different fruity swirl that pairs deliciously with the cheesecake.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture contrast against the creamy filling.
Minty Chocolate: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the brownie batter for a refreshing chocolate-mint combination.
Espresso Kick: Blend in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder to the brownie mixture for a mocha flavor that intensifies the chocolate.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends without losing flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions Heart Shaped Brownies

These Heart Shaped Brownies can be served in a variety of ways that elevate their presentation:

Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each brownie piece adds a lovely touch and enhances the dessert’s richness.
Pair with Ice Cream: Serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla or raspberry ice cream for a decadent complementary flavor and temperature contrast.
Fresh Fruits: Decorate the plate with fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, which not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing taste.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top of each brownie can make them look extra special and increase their deliciousness.
Serve with Coffee or Tea: These brownies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great option for a cozy afternoon treat or dessert after a meal.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Heart Shaped Brownies

To keep your Heart Shaped Brownies fresh, it’s essential to store them properly:

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a few days, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their moisture and freshness.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, pop the brownies in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to place them in an airtight container to avoid drying out.
Freezing: You can freeze the brownies for up to three months. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying them.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———-|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 100mg |

FAQ About Heart Shaped Brownies

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If the toothpick comes out clean, be careful as they may be overbaked.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking, and if they release more liquid than fresh raspberries, you may want to simmer them a little longer to thicken the sauce.

How should I cut the brownies into heart shapes?

To cut the brownies into heart shapes, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter. To make clean cuts, dip the cutter in warm water before cutting, which helps it glide through without sticking.

Can I make the brownies ahead of time?

Yes! Heart Shaped Brownies can be made a day in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container in the fridge, and they will taste delicious the next day.

What’s the best way to serve these brownies?

To serve, you can dust the brownies with powdered sugar, add whipped cream, or pair them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Fresh berries also make a lovely accompaniment!

Final Thoughts