VALENTINE'S DAY BROWNIE IDEAS RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare and bake brownie mix according to package directions for fudge-like brownies. Cool completely on a wire rack., Meanwhile, in a small bowl, cream the butter, confectioners' sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Place in a heavy-duty resealable plastic bag; cut a small hole in a corner of bag; set aside., Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Dust with cocoa; set aside. Cut brownies into 15 rectangles. Using a 1-1/2-in. heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out a heart from the center of each brownie. Reserve cutout centers for another use. Place brownies on prepared baking sheet. Pipe frosting into centers of brownies.

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350°F. Line 13-inch by 9-inch pan with foil; grease foil. In 3-quart saucepan, melt butter and chocolates on low, stirring. Remove from heat. In bowl, whisk flour, cocoa and salt. In large bowl, with electric mixer on high speed, beat eggs until blended. Gradually add sugars; beat until tripled in volume, about 10 minutes. Fold in chocolate mixture and vanilla, then flour mixture. Pour into pan. Bake until toothpick inserted near center comes out almost clean, 28 to 32 minutes. Once cool, cut brownies into hearts freehand or using a heart-shaped cookie cutter. (Tip: Don't let the trimmings go to waste — you can even crumble them onto a sundae!) Pipe on store-bought frosting to create cute chocolate "conversation hearts."