Name: Strawberry Frosted Heart-Shaped Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon strawberry jam or puree; 1–2 teaspoons milk (as needed); A few drops red or pink food coloring (optional); Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Introduction

These Strawberry Frosted Heart-Shaped Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to share a bit of love. Rich, fudgy brownies topped with a sweet strawberry frosting make every bite irresistible. Plus, shaping them into hearts adds a charming and festive touch.

The image shows square-shaped chocolate brownies arranged closely on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has a thick, smooth pink frosting layer on top, with light white drizzle lines running horizontally across the frosting. On top of each brownie sits one fresh bright red strawberry with green leaves, centered and upright, adding a fresh and colorful contrast to the rich chocolate and pink frosting below. The texture of the brownies looks moist and dense, while the frosting is creamy and glossy. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon strawberry jam or puree

1–2 teaspoons milk (as needed)

A few drops red or pink food coloring (optional)

Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until the batter is fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before removing and proceeding.

Step 6: Once cooled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to carefully cut out heart-shaped brownies.

Step 7: In a small bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until smooth.

Step 8: Mix in the strawberry jam or puree. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency. For a vibrant pink color, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring if desired.

Step 9: Spread the strawberry frosting evenly over each heart-shaped brownie. Optionally, sprinkle with decorations for a festive look.

Tips & Variations

For an extra fudgy texture, slightly underbake the brownies by a minute or two.

Substitute fresh strawberry puree for jam to give the frosting a natural fruit flavor.

Use white chocolate chips in the batter for a twist on classic brownie flavor.

If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, try cutting squares and decorating with heart-shaped sprinkles instead.

To keep the frosting extra fluffy, chill the butter before beating it.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week—bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor. You can also freeze the unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months; thaw completely before frosting and decorating. Reheat gently if desired, but the frosting is best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of frosting with these brownies?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache would also pair beautifully with these brownies. Just adjust sweetness and consistency to your liking.

How do I prevent brownies from sticking to the pan?

Lining the pan with parchment paper is the easiest way to prevent sticking. Alternatively, lightly greasing the pan with butter or non-stick spray works well too.