Introduction to EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re like me, you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where these EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to show your love. With their rich, buttery flavor and colorful M&M’s, these brownies are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they’re quick to make, making them the perfect solution for busy days when you still want to create something sweet and memorable.
Why You’ll Love This EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie
These brownies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying dessert option. The combination of browned butter and M&M’s creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a sweet treat after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Ingredients for EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show! It adds richness and flavor. Browning it enhances the nutty taste.
- Brown sugar: This gives the brownies a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Dark brown sugar can add even more flavor.
- Large eggs: They provide moisture and help bind everything together, giving the brownies their chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of the brownies, giving them structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Baking powder: This helps the brownies rise slightly, making them light and fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Valentine’s M&M’s: These colorful candies not only add sweetness but also a festive touch. Feel free to swap them for chocolate chips or nuts if you prefer.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking, so don’t skip it! Once your pan is ready, you’re all set to dive into the next step.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
Now, let’s get to the magic of browning butter! In a saucepan, melt your unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it melts, stirring occasionally. You want it to turn a beautiful golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This process brings out a nutty flavor that elevates your brownies to a whole new level. Once it’s browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Trust me, this step is worth it!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled browned butter with the brown sugar. Mix them together until well combined. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins! The combination of these ingredients creates a rich base for your brownies. Make sure everything is well blended for the best results.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential to ensure your brownies rise perfectly. Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps distribute the baking powder evenly. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in texture. Once combined, set this bowl aside for the next step.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your brownies soft and chewy. The batter should be thick and luscious, ready to be transformed into something delicious!
Step 6: Fold in M&M’s
Here comes the fun part! Gently fold in the Valentine’s M&M’s into your brownie batter. This adds a pop of color and sweetness that makes these brownies extra special. You can use your hands or a spatula for this step. Just make sure the M&M’s are evenly distributed throughout the batter. It’s like adding little love notes to each bite!
Step 7: Bake
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and your family will be eagerly waiting!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up nicely. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they indulge in these delightful treats!
Tips for Success
- Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Don’t rush the browning process; it’s key to flavor!
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
- Experiment with different M&M’s flavors for a fun twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for brownies; you can use a glass or metal pan.
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork works too!
- Spatula: Great for folding in M&M’s and spreading the batter.
- Saucepan: Needed for browning the butter; a small pot will do.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap half of the M&M’s for chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Minty Fresh: Use mint-flavored M&M’s for a refreshing twist that’s perfect for the season.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fruity burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity touch.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Present on a colorful platter to make them pop at any gathering.
FAQs about EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie
Can I use regular M&M’s instead of Valentine’s M&M’s?
Absolutely! While Valentine’s M&M’s add a festive touch, regular M&M’s work just as well. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
How do I store the brownies?
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies are perfect for making ahead. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll taste just as delicious when you’re ready to serve!
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help keep the brownies moist!
Can I add frosting to these brownies?
Of course! A simple chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting can elevate these brownies even more. Just let them cool completely before adding any frosting for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Making these EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet moments with loved ones. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the colorful M&M’s brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just need a quick treat, these brownies are sure to delight. I love how simple they are to whip up, yet they feel special enough to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of these brownies fill your kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
EASY Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondie Recipe You’ll Love!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Valentine’s Day brownies made with M&M’s and browned butter blondies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Valentine’s M&M’s
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the browned butter and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the Valentine’s M&M’s.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar.
- Feel free to substitute M&M’s with chocolate chips or nuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg