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Heart-Shaped Brownies

Delicious and visually appealing heart-shaped brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer and tangy raspberry sauce, perfect for special occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: American
Calories: 292

Ingredients
  

For the raspberry sauce
  • 1 cup raspberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cheesecake layer
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the brownie batter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 3/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder, sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 + 2 tablespoons refined coconut oil or neutral oil
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature

Method
 

Prepare Raspberry Sauce
  1. Simmer the raspberries, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over medium heat for 5–8 minutes until the mixture thickens. Strain the sauce to remove seeds and set it aside.
Make Cheesecake Layer
  1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the egg and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
Prepare Brownie Batter
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix the oil, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well.
  3. Combine the flour mixture with the egg mixture just until blended.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Spread the brownie batter in a lined baking pan. Pour the cheesecake mixture on top, then spoon the raspberry sauce over the cheesecake and swirl gently with a skewer.
  2. Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes. Once baked, cool completely, and then chill for 2 hours.
  3. Cut into heart shapes and serve.

Notes

These brownies are best served chilled for a rich and fluffy texture. You can garnish them with extra raspberry sauce, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy result. Don’t overmix the brownie batter to avoid toughness.