Valentines Treats Mini Brownie Hearts

Name: Valentines Treats Mini Brownie Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Home Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making these mini brownie hearts for Valentine’s Day! They’re my go-to treat because they combine rich chocolate flavor with a fun presentation. The joy on my loved ones' faces when they receive these playful little treats is priceless. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, meaning I can whip up a batch for unexpected visitors or to brighten someone's day. With a moist texture and a hint of sweetness, these brownie hearts are bound to be a hit at any gathering.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:50:34.426Z

When I first experimented with these mini brownie hearts, I was looking for a treat that was both delicate and delicious. Using heart-shaped molds made the brownies not only visually appealing but also perfect for sharing. The secret to their fudgy texture is not overbaking them, which I learned the hard way! I recommend checking them a few minutes before the timer goes off to ensure they remain gooey.

To elevate the flavor, I added just a touch of vanilla extract, which perfectly complements the chocolate. I also always serve them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add a little flair. Trust me, these mini brownie hearts are bound to impress anyone you choose to share them with!

        Why You'll Love These Mini Brownie Hearts
        Rich chocolate flavor in every bite
Adorable heart shape perfect for sharing
Simple ingredients make them easy to whip up
Great for any occasion, not just Valentine's Day

      

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect brownie texture is all about balancing wet and dry ingredients. The melted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to a fudgy consistency. Be sure to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly before adding the dry ones; this ensures a smooth batter without lumps, which can otherwise result in uneven baking. Avoid overmixing once the dry ingredients are added; just blend until you see no flour streaks. This will keep your brownie hearts wonderfully moist.

Another crucial tip is to monitor the baking time closely. Every oven varies, so while 20 minutes is a good starting point, check for doneness a minute or two earlier. The brownies should pull away slightly from the edges of the mold and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. This will ensure they remain soft and chewy rather than dry.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to make these mini brownie hearts gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions for any additional binders you might need, like xanthan gum, to achieve the best texture. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter with an equal amount of melted coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute which will impart a subtle coconut flavor that complements the chocolate well.

For those who love a creative twist, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter. You can fold in about 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips right before pouring the batter into the molds. This not only adds flavor and texture but also makes each bite more indulgent. Another variation is incorporating a bit of orange zest for a bright citrusy note that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.

Storing and Serving

Once your brownies have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer preservation, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each brownie heart individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months; just allow them to thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy. To refresh the texture, pop them in a warm oven for a couple of minutes before serving.

When it comes to serving, you can elevate the presentation by serving these mini brownie hearts on a platter dusted with powdered sugar, or you could drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a gourmet touch. Pairing them with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also create a delightful dessert experience that your guests will appreciate, making these treats perfect for any special occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own heart-shaped mini brownies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect mini brownie hearts!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your heart-shaped mini brownie mold.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Spoon the batter into the greased brownie molds, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the mold for 10 minutes before carefully inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Your delicious mini brownie hearts are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste.

Tips for Success

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing them into the batter. This helps them incorporate better with the other wet ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and more even baking. You can quickly bring eggs to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before use.

Remember to grease the brownie molds well to ensure easy removal. If you're using a non-stick silicone mold, you may not need much grease; however, if you're using metal molds, a light coat of cooking spray or butter can prevent any sticking and ensures a perfect heart shape.

Presentation Ideas

After dusting the mini brownie hearts with powdered sugar, consider adding a colorful touch by placing them on a bed of fresh raspberries or strawberries. The vibrant color contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate, creating an appealing visual display that's perfect for the occasion. You could also use edible flowers to enhance the festive presentation.

For a more interactive serving idea, set up a toppings bar. Provide options like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or even fresh fruit so guests can customize their brownie hearts. This not only enhances the fun but allows each guest to tailor their treat to their preferences, making it a memorable experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these mini brownie hearts?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to top them with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even ice cream for a delightful dessert!