Valentines Treats Mini Brownie Hearts

Name: Valentines Treats Mini Brownie Hearts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Festive Planning

I love creating special treats that bring a smile to loved ones, and these mini brownie hearts have become a go-to for Valentine's Day. With their rich chocolate flavor and adorable shape, they make perfect little gifts that are easy to share and enjoy. What I particularly love is how simple they are to make; you can whip them up quickly and make your loved ones feel extra special with minimal effort. These brownies melt in your mouth and leave a lasting impression, making them ideal for the occasion.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:57:34.093Z

I remember the first time I made these mini brownie hearts for a school Valentine's party. The kids were so excited to receive them, and I loved how quickly they disappeared! The recipe combines cocoa powder with a few simple ingredients to create a rich base, and using a heart-shaped cutter makes them perfect for Valentine's Day.

One of my favorite tips is to underbake them slightly for a fudgy texture. Just a couple of minutes less than you think can make all the difference. The mini hearts are not just visually appealing; they are a delightful explosion of chocolate in each bite, making them irresistible!

Why You'll Love These Mini Brownie Hearts
Adorable heart shape perfect for sharing and gifting.
Fudgy texture that enhances the chocolate experience.
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy schedules.

Perfecting the Fudgy Texture

Achieving the ideal fudgy texture in these mini brownie hearts is all about balancing the wet and dry ingredients. The melted butter and the sugar create a glossy base that helps to maintain moisture. Be careful not to over-mix once you incorporate the dry ingredients; a few lumps are okay. This ensures that your brownies remain densily fudgy instead of becoming cake-like. Stir just until combined for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Another tip for controlling texture is the baking time. Every oven can be slightly different, so check your brownies at the lower end of the recommended time. Start with 12 minutes and use a toothpick; when it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), that’s your cue to take them out. Overbaking can lead to a drier result, compromising that wonderful fudginess.

Ingredient Insights

The unsweetened cocoa powder used in this recipe is key for imparting that rich chocolate flavor. Choose a high-quality cocoa powder for the best results; it can significantly affect the final taste of your brownies. If you're looking to experiment, dark cocoa powder can add a deeper flavor, while Dutch-processed cocoa makes for a smoother finish in taste and texture.

You might be wondering about the role of the eggs. They provide moisture as well as structure to the brownies. If you are looking for a vegan substitute, you can replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a ripe mashed banana. This not only maintains moisture in the brownies but also enhances sweetness without the need for additional sugar.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful mini brownie hearts:

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Once everything is prepared, you'll be ready to create your delicious brownie hearts!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your mini brownie hearts:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini heart-shaped pan with cooking spray.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar until well blended. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.

Pour into Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared heart-shaped pan, filling each section about ¾ full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing them. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your delightful mini brownie hearts with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies or sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Storage Tips

To keep your mini brownie hearts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Place cooled brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stack them in a container separated by layers of parchment paper. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen brownies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat. Just be careful not to overheat, as that can dry them out. Reheating can bring back that fudgy texture and make the chocolate chips ooze deliciously.

Serving Suggestions

These mini brownie hearts can be enjoyed on their own, but adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream transforms them into a delightful dessert. For an extra special touch, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top. You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt just before serving to enhance the chocolate flavor and create a beautiful contrast with the sweetness.

If you’re feeling festive, consider decorating the brownies with colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped candies. This not only makes them more visually appealing, especially for Valentine's Day, but also adds a fun crunch. Personalizing each heart can make each one a special treat for your loved ones!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute butter with oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil in place of butter, but it might alter the texture slightly.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make them a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.