Introduction

These Strawberry Frosted Heart-Shaped Brownies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Rich, fudgy brownies topped with a sweet and tangy strawberry frosting make them irresistible and charming, especially when cut into fun heart shapes.

The image shows several square chocolate brownies arranged on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark, moist chocolate base with a slightly rough texture; the middle layer is a smooth, pink frosting spread evenly over the chocolate base; the top layer features thin, white icing lines drizzled diagonally across the pink frosting. Each brownie is topped with a fresh, bright red strawberry with green leaves, placed in the center. The focus is on the front brownie, making the strawberries and frosting look shiny and fresh. 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. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract and 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 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, then add 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency. 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, add sprinkles on top for extra decoration.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense strawberry flavor, try using homemade strawberry puree instead of jam.
Swap the food coloring for natural beet juice if you prefer a natural alternative.
If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, use other shapes or simply cut the brownies into squares.
Chilling the frosting briefly before spreading can make it easier to work with.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week, but bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. The brownies can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and let come to room temperature before enjoying.

How to Serve

The image shows six square pieces of chocolate brownies arranged on a white plate set on a white marbled texture. Each brownie has two layers: a thick, dark brown, moist cake base on the bottom and a smooth, light pink frosting layer on top. A white drizzle in a zigzag pattern adorns the frosting on each piece. On top of every brownie piece sits a fresh, bright red strawberry with green leaves, positioned centrally. The close-up view highlights the texture of the brownies and the vibrant colors of the strawberries and frosting photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup the same way. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent the brownies from drying out?

Be careful not to overbake; check for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Also, store the brownies in an airtight container to retain moisture.