Valentine Brownie Box
A heartwarming gift of rich, fudgy brownies perfect for any celebration, especially Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
Brownie Base Ingredients
- 1 cup butter Can be replaced with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free version.
- 2 cups sugar For a lighter version, consider half maple syrup or honey.
- 4 large eggs Can be substituted with flaxseed meal for a vegan version.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be replaced with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version.
- 1 cup cocoa powder High-quality cocoa recommended for better flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Optional Toppings
- to taste nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) For added crunch.
- to taste chocolate chips For extra chocolaty flavor.
- to taste sprinkles For a festive touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
- Gather and pre-measure all your ingredients.
Mixing
- Melt the butter in a large mixing bowl, either in the microwave or over low heat.
- Stir in the sugar until the mixture becomes glossy.
- Beat the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Baking
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- If using, sprinkle the optional toppings over the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and package them if desired.
Notes
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For freezing, wrap individually in plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.