Description
Delight in these Strawberry Sweetheart Brownies, a perfect Valentine’s Day dessert combining rich, fudgy chocolate with a burst of fresh strawberry flavor. Layers of chocolate batter, strawberry preserves, and diced strawberries create a luscious treat topped with optional white chocolate drizzle and festive heart-shaped sprinkles.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 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
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Strawberry Layer
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Heart-shaped sprinkles or decorations
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Make brownie batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder just until the batter is combined, then fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra chocolate bursts.
- Layer brownie batter and strawberries: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Carefully spread the strawberry preserves evenly over this layer, then scatter the diced fresh strawberries on top for texture and freshness.
- Top with remaining batter: Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the strawberry layer and gently spread to cover, ensuring the layers stay distinct yet sealed.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy.
- Cool and decorate: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled brownies. Finish with heart-shaped sprinkles or decorations to add a festive touch.
- Serve: Cut into squares or use a heart-shaped cookie cutter for holiday-themed pieces. Best served slightly chilled for clean cuts.
Notes
- For extra strawberry flavor, swirl additional strawberry preserves on top of the batter before baking.
- Store brownies in the fridge to maintain freshness and for easiest slicing.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most vibrant flavor and texture contrast.
- White chocolate drizzle and sprinkles are optional but add a lovely decorative touch perfect for celebrations.
