Description
Fudgy, vibrant red velvet brownies baked in a slab and cut into adorable heart shapes. Perfect for gifting, parties, or any day you want something special.
Ingredients
Brownies
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs (room temperature preferred)
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1 tbsp red gel food coloring
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ tsp fine salt
Optional Topping
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Cream Cheese Glaze:
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2 oz softened cream cheese
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1–2 tbsp milk
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Splash of vanilla
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OR powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for lifting.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
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In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth (30–45 seconds).
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Whisk in eggs one at a time until glossy.
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Add vanilla + red food coloring and mix until fully red.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
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Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
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Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Bake
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Spread batter evenly in the pan.
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Bake 20–25 minutes.
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Toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not clean.
5. Cool Completely
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Cool fully in the pan on a rack.
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Lift out using parchment once cooled.
6. Cut Into Hearts
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Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (any size).
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If sticking, dip cutter in warm water and wipe dry between cuts.
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Save scraps for snacking or layering into a parfait.
7. Add Topping (Optional)
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Glaze: Whisk all ingredients until drizzle-able; zig-zag over hearts.
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OR dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Notes
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Use gel food coloring for bright red color (liquid may look dull).
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Room-temperature eggs mix smoother for a fudgy texture.
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Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients disappear.
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For extra shine on top, whisk the sugar and eggs thoroughly.