Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Start by buttering and flouring a 13x18x1 inch sheet pan. I recommend lining it with foil or parchment paper that hangs over the sides; this will make it easier to lift the brownies out later.
- In a heatproof medium bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, add the butter and chocolate together. Whisk until melted and smooth. Be sure to cool the mixture slightly before proceeding to the next step.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla. Stir in the slightly cooled chocolate mixture until well combined. It’s important to let it cool to room temperature to ensure you don’t cook the eggs.
- In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the brownie batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared sheet pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. This will ensure even cooking and a nice, flat surface for cutting.
- Bake the brownies for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached. Remember, you want them to be fudgy, so don’t overbake!
- Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. I like to cover them tightly and chill them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Chilled brownies are easier to cut and hold their shape better.
- After chilling, invert the brownie pan onto a large cutting board and peel off the foil or parchment.
- Using a 2-inch heart cookie cutter, cut out as many hearts as possible. You’ll be amazed at how cute they look!
- Decide how you want to dip the brownies. If using chocolate, melt some chocolate chips in the microwave with a teaspoon of shortening for a smooth coating. Alternatively, you can melt colored melting wafers for a festive touch.
- Brush any crumbs off the top of the brownies. Hold the brownies by the sides and dunk the tops into the melted chocolate. Place them on waxed paper to dry, chocolate-side-up. Don’t forget to sprinkle festive decor on top if desired!
Notes
When making these brownies, keep in mind that nutritional information does not include the dipping chocolate.