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 mini hearts
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; Optional: sprinkles or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet & Baked

I absolutely love making these Valentine's Treats Mini Brownie Hearts for my loved ones. They are not only adorable but also packed with rich chocolate flavor that everyone enjoys. The combination of a fudgy brownie base and a light dusting of powdered sugar creates a delightful treat that is perfect for sharing. Whether it's for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering, these mini hearts bring smiles and sweetness to any occasion, and they are surprisingly easy to whip up in just a short amount of time.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:22:19.748Z

Making these mini brownie hearts was one of those delightful culinary adventures. I remember experimenting with different baking times to achieve the perfect fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. After several tries, I discovered that slightly underbaking them, just a minute or two shy of the recommended time, creates that gooey center everyone loves.

What I particularly enjoy is how versatile these brownies can be! You can sprinkle some sea salt on top after they come out of the oven or add a few chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty punch. The best part? Everyone around me keeps asking for these treats again and again!

Why You'll Love These Mini Brownie Hearts
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a light powdered sugar dusting
Fudgy texture that delights the taste buds
Perfect size for sharing or enjoying all by yourself

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality cocoa powder is essential for achieving a rich chocolate flavor in these mini brownie hearts. Look for cocoa that has a deep, dark color and a strong aroma. Dutch-processed cocoa can lend a smoother, more mellow taste, while natural cocoa will contribute to a more intense chocolate flavor. If you're out of cocoa, carob powder can be a fun substitute, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile significantly.

Unsalted butter plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of flavors in these brownies. Since you're adding sugar and possibly other sweet toppings, using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in the final product. You can use coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative to butter; just ensure it's in a liquid state before mixing it with other wet ingredients.

Baking Tips for Fudgy Perfection

Overmixing your batter can lead to cakey brownies instead of the fudgy treat we aim for. Once you add the flour and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated; it’s okay if some small lumps remain. This technique preserves the brownies' rich texture, making them gooey and delightful. Additionally, checking on the brownies a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time can help you catch that perfect moment where the edges are set, yet the center remains slightly underbaked.

For a beautiful presentation, consider variations in your dusting technique. If you want a more playful finish, use a stencil to create heart shapes with powdered sugar. This can be an entertaining activity, especially for Valentine's Day. If you decide to add sprinkles or chocolate chips, consider doing so right after dusting the powdered sugar for a contrasting look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

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

For the Decoration

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Optional: sprinkles or chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth. Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until just combined.

Fill the Pan

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared mini heart pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.

Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Dust

Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar.

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving or pair them with fresh strawberries for a romantic dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These mini brownie hearts are incredibly versatile and can be made ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. To freeze, place the brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them on the counter for an hour before serving.

If you want to make these brownies a day in advance for a special occasion, consider leaving the dusting of powdered sugar until just before serving. This ensures the sugar stays nice and powdery, and prevents it from absorbing moisture and clumping. Re-dusting before serving will also give your brownies a fresh and appealing look.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these mini brownie hearts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The contrast between the warm, fudgy brownies and the cold ice cream creates a delightful mouthfeel. Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce or raspberry coulis over the top can elevate the presentation and add a burst of flavor that complements the brownies beautifully.

For a more themed approach, consider serving these mini treats on a heart-shaped platter surrounded by fresh berries. Not only does this enhance the aesthetic appeal, but the tartness of the berries can offset the rich, chocolatey sweetness of the brownies, creating a balanced dessert experience. Guests will appreciate the effort, and it ensures your treats stand out at any celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement.

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as an egg substitute.

→ How do I know when they're done baking?

They should be set on the edges and slightly gooey in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.