Introduction

Valentine Brookies combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies swirled together in a beautiful, marbled treat. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or adding a festive touch to any celebration, these brookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat.

A close-up view of a square brownie with two distinct layers: the bottom layer is thick and dark brown with a moist, dense texture, while the top layer features a colorful swirl pattern combining bright pink, light tan, and some dark brown streaks. The surface of the brownie has a slightly cracked, crispy crust, especially around the edges. There are multiple brownies arranged on a pink surface, with small white and pink heart-shaped decorations blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Fudgy Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup cocoa powder, natural and unsweetened
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Buttery Sugar Cookie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Pink or red gel food coloring, to your desired shade
Optional: Valentine sprinkles or heart confetti

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two opposite sides for easy lifting.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar for about a minute until smooth and shiny. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Gently stir in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt with a spatula until combined. Pour this batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract just until combined.
Step 4: Add the flour and baking powder to the cookie mixture and mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Add gel food coloring gradually until you achieve your perfect pink or red shade.
Step 5: Drop small spoonfuls of the colored sugar cookie dough randomly over the brownie batter in the pan. Using a butter knife or offset spatula, gently swirl the two batters together by dragging the knife in figure-eights and zig-zags for a marbled effect. Sprinkle Valentine decorations on top if desired.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is just slightly soft but not wet. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not raw batter.
Step 7: Allow the brookies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes after cooling to room temperature. Lift the brookies out using the parchment overhang and slice to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use gel food coloring to avoid watering down the dough and achieve vibrant colors.
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie batter.
Substitute sprinkles with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
Make smaller brookies by using a 9×9 inch pan for thinner bars that bake faster.

Storage

Store brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm briefly in the microwave to restore softness without drying them out.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of rich, square brownies with three visible layers. The bottom layer is dark brown and dense with a fudgy texture. The middle layer features a creamy swirl pattern combining bright pink, light tan, and dark brown, creating a marbled effect across the top. The outer edges of the brownies have a cracked, glossy chocolate crust. These brownies are arranged on a white marbled surface with small pink and white heart-shaped candies scattered in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to omit or reduce the added salt in the brownie layer to keep the flavor balanced.

Why do I need to let the brookies cool completely before slicing?

Cooling allows the brookies to set and firm up, which prevents them from crumbling or breaking apart when cut. It also helps develop the fudgy texture that makes them so irresistible.