Name: Teddy Bear Brownies: A Sweet Valentine’s Day Surprise
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 oz Dark Chocolate (Provides rich chocolate flavor; semi-sweet chocolate can be used as a substitute.); 3/4 stick Unsalted Butter (Adds moisture and richness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); 2/3 cup Light Brown Sugar (Sweetens and keeps the brownies moist; coconut sugar works well as a substitute.); 2 Eggs (Acts as a binder for structure; flax eggs can be substituted for a vegan alternative.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Provides essential structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for Teddy Bear Brownies.); 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Intensifies the chocolate flavor.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.); 1/2 tsp Instant Espresso Powder (Optional; deepens the chocolate flavor if you enjoy a richer taste.); 1/4 cup Quick Cooking Oats (Adds texture to the cookies; old-fashioned oats can work if blitzed in a food processor.); 1 tsp Ground Flaxseed (A nutritious substitute for eggs, high in fiber.); 2.5 tsp Water (Hydrates the flaxseed for the egg substitute.); 1.5 tbsp Light Brown Sugar (Sweetens the cookie dough.); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Contributes to the cookie structure; gluten-free options are available.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.); Ruby Chocolate Hearts

As the winter chill starts to fade and love is in the air, what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a batch of adorable Teddy Bear Brownies? These delightful treats not only fill your home with the irresistible aroma of rich chocolate, but they also bring smiles with their whimsical, teddy bear-shaped cookie toppers and shimmering ruby chocolate hearts. Each bite is a delightful combination of cakey brownie goodness and sweet cookie crunch, making them the perfect dessert for sharing with loved ones, whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting a gathering.

I stumbled upon this fun recipe while looking for a cute way to impress my friends, and trust me, it’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Plus, whether you’re looking to cater to gluten-free diets or simply want a treat that radiates heartwarming charm, these brownies tick all the boxes. So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up some Teddy Bear Brownies that will steal everyone’s hearts this Valentine’s Day!

Why are Teddy Bear Brownies a must-try?

Adorable presentation: These Teddy Bear Brownies aren’t just tasty—they’re irresistibly cute! Each brownie features a whimsical teddy bear cookie topping, perfect for capturing hearts on Valentine’s Day.

Easy to make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve sweet success.

Crowd-pleaser: Designed to delight young and old alike, these adorable treats are sure to be the star of any gathering.

Versatile options: Want to make them gluten-free? Just swap in a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re set!

Serve warm: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or served with a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.

These Teddy Bear Brownies are bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. So why not get started and let the adorable baking fun begin?

Teddy Bear Brownies Ingredients

Get ready for a delicious treat!

For the Brownie Batter

Dark Chocolate (4 oz / 113g) – Provides rich chocolate flavor; semi-sweet chocolate can be used as a substitute.
Unsalted Butter (3/4 stick / 85g + 2 tbsp / 28g, melted) – Adds moisture and richness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Light Brown Sugar (2/3 cup / 133g) – Sweetens and keeps the brownies moist; coconut sugar works well as a substitute.
Eggs (2) – Acts as a binder for structure; flax eggs can be substituted for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup / 60g) – Provides essential structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for Teddy Bear Brownies.
Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup / 21g) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Instant Espresso Powder (1/2 tsp, optional) – Deepens the chocolate flavor if you enjoy a richer taste.

For the Teddy Bear Cookies

Quick Cooking Oats (1/4 cup / 25g) – Adds texture to the cookies; old-fashioned oats can work if blitzed in a food processor.
Ground Flaxseed (1 tsp) – A nutritious substitute for eggs, high in fiber.
Water (2.5 tsp) – Hydrates the flaxseed for the egg substitute.
Light Brown Sugar (1.5 tbsp / 19g) – Sweetens the cookie dough.
All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup / 30g) – Contributes to the cookie structure; gluten-free options are available.
Salt (pinch) – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

For Decoration

Ruby Chocolate Hearts – Adds a sweet and visually appealing touch; feel free to use any colored chocolate or candies you have on hand.

These Teddy Bear Brownies are not just delicious but also incredibly fun to make, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

How to Make Teddy Bear Brownies

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures the brownies bake perfectly while you’re preparing the batter. Grease and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Chocolate: In a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate and butter together. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted. Once done, allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Combine Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale. This will create a fluffy base for your brownies.
Mix Ingredients: Pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg-sugar blend. Gently stir to combine, then fold in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing for a light texture.
Bake Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Look for a slight springiness in the center to ensure a cakey finish.
Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will help them set properly for decoration.
Prepare Teddy Bear Cookies: Lower the oven temperature to 320°F (160°C). In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, ground flaxseed, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Form Dough: Mix in the melted butter and water until a dough forms. Shape the dough into adorable teddy bear figures and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake Cookies: Bake the teddy bear cookies for about 25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. Allow them to cool once out of the oven.
Assemble Treats: Use melted chocolate to attach teddy bear cookies onto the cooled brownies. Decorate them with ruby chocolate hearts for a touch of sweetness and whimsy.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Teddy Bear Brownies

Room Temperature: Store leftover Teddy Bear Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the brownies for up to a week; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that delightful decadence.

Teddy Bear Brownies Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to put your own twist on these sweet delights!

White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter version that’s still adored.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate those with dietary needs. A little adjustment can bring everyone together!
Heart-Shaped Cookies: Replace teddy bear cookies with heart-shaped ones for an even more Valentine’s Day vibe; it’s a simple change that makes a big impact!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor in the brownie batter—this gives a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft brownies.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a surprising heat that complements the chocolate. Just a dash is all you need!
Caramel Drizzle: Top the brownies with a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce after they cool for an indulgent treat. Drizzling caramel can elevate the sweetness while adding a sticky delight.
Berry Infusion: Toss in some fresh raspberries or chopped strawberries into the brownie batter for a fruity burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. The vibrant colors are sure to catch eyes!
Vegan Style: Substitute flax eggs for the regular eggs and use applesauce or coconut cream as a binder for a fully vegan twist while keeping all the charm!

These variations invite your creativity to shine and make these Teddy Bear Brownies uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Teddy Bear Brownies?

Looking to create the ultimate dessert experience? Pair these delightful brownies with complementary treats that elevate your sweet celebration.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture contrasts beautifully with the warm brownies, enhancing the rich chocolate flavor.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a tart freshness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brownies. The vibrant color also adds a lovely touch to your presentation!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream transforms each bite into a luscious treat, making every forkful feel indulgent and special.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an extra layer of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore. It adds richness, making the dessert truly irresistible.
Mint Tea: A soothing mint tea can cleanse the palate, contrasting the sweetness of the brownies and offering a refreshing conclusion to your meal.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a charming twist, serve chocolate-covered strawberries on the side. They tie in wonderfully with the chocolate theme of the brownies while adding a pop of color.

Each of these delightful options will enhance your Teddy Bear Brownies, creating a love-filled dessert experience perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Teddy Bear Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your baking experience smoother. You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The teddy bear cookies can also be baked ahead of time and will stay delightful for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their cute design, assemble the brownies with the cookies and ruby chocolate hearts just before serving, ensuring they look and taste just as adorable and delicious as when they were first made. Enjoy the convenience of having a charming treat ready to impress your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Teddy Bear Brownies

Cool Chocolate Mixture: Always let the melted chocolate and butter cool before combining it with the eggs to prevent curdling.
Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the brownies in the oven; they should be soft in the center yet set to maintain that delightful cakey texture.
Fluffy Batter: Use a balloon whisk for mixing eggs and sugar. This helps achieve a fluffy mixture without needing an electric mixer.
Cookie Consistency: Ensure the teddy bear cookies are formed tightly, as they can spread slightly during baking.
Creative Decor: Feel free to customize your decorations! Swap ruby chocolate for any colored chocolate or fun candies to match your festive theme.

These tips will help you craft the perfect Teddy Bear Brownies that your friends and family will adore!

Teddy Bear Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right dark chocolate for my Teddy Bear Brownies?
Absolutely! When choosing dark chocolate, look for a high-quality option with a cocoa percentage of at least 60%. This will enhance the rich chocolate flavor in your brownies. If you’re more of a sweet tooth, semi-sweet chocolate can be substituted easily without altering the delightful outcome.

What is the best way to store leftover Teddy Bear Brownies?
Very! To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you’d like to prolong their freshness and keep them from drying out, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to wrap them well to keep that moisture in!

Can I freeze Teddy Bear Brownies, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Teddy Bear Brownies, start by allowing them to cool completely. Then, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can seep in. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their deliciousness.

What if I encounter issues with my brownies being too cakey or dry?
Oh no, don’t worry! If you find your Teddy Bear Brownies turning out too dry or cakey, this is usually a result of overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to check doneness around the 20-minute mark as baking times can vary between ovens. If you want a fudgier texture, try reducing the flour slightly or adjusting your baking time to ensure that soft, gooey center remains intact.

Can I make these Teddy Bear Brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Teddy Bear Brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that you also use gluten-free oats for the bear cookies and check all other ingredients to avoid hidden gluten. Your dessert will still be moist and delicious!

Are Teddy Bear Brownies safe for pets?
Very! While you might be tempted to share a small nibble with your furry friends, it’s best to keep these brownies away from pets. Ingredients such as chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so it’s safer for them to stick to their treats. Always keep your delightful creations in a pet-safe zone!