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Easy Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondies (Fudgy & Festive)

These Easy Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies are the perfect mash-up of rich, fudgy brownies and buttery blondies—made extra special with browned butter and colorful Valentine’s M&M’s. The browned butter adds a deep, nutty warmth that elevates the sweetness, while the M&M’s bring crunch, color, and festive flair. Soft in the center, chewy at the edges, and packed with chocolate flavor, these brown butter blondie brownies are ideal for Valentine’s Day parties, Galentine’s gatherings, bake sales, or cozy nights in. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 20 squares
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1¼ cups unsalted butter
  • 1½ cups light brown sugar packed
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 oz semi-sweet chocolate chopped
  • ⅔ cup Valentine’s M&M chocolate candies

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking pan (9×13 or similar)
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
    Step 2: Place the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and cook until melted, foamy, and lightly browned with a nutty aroma.
      Step 3: Remove the browned butter from heat and let it cool slightly.
        Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and granulated sugar.
          Step 5: Pour the warm browned butter over the sugars and whisk until smooth and glossy.
            Step 6: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
              Step 7: Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
                Step 8: Add the cocoa powder, flour, and salt to the bowl and mix gently until just combined.
                  Step 9: Fold in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and half of the M&M’s.
                    Step 10: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
                      Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining M&M’s evenly over the top.
                        Step 12: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft.
                          Step 13: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.

                            Notes

                            🧊 Storage & Reheating
                            Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
                            Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a fudgier texture.
                            Reheat briefly in the oven at low temperature if desired.
                            🥄 Variations
                            Use heart-shaped candies for extra Valentine charm.
                            Add white chocolate chips for contrast.
                            Sprinkle flaky salt on top before baking for balance.
                            Swirl in chocolate spread for added richness.
                            Cut into heart shapes once cooled for themed serving.
                            ❓ 10 FAQs
                            Are these brownies or blondies?
                            They’re a hybrid with brownie richness and blondie butteriness.
                            What does browned butter add?
                            A deep, nutty flavor that enhances sweetness.
                            Are these very sweet?
                            Balanced with cocoa and salt.
                            Can I make them ahead of time?
                            Yes, they taste even better the next day.
                            Do the M&M’s melt?
                            They soften slightly but keep their crunch.
                            Can I double the recipe?
                            Yes, use a larger pan and adjust bake time.
                            Are these fudgy or cakey?
                            Rich and fudgy with chewy edges.
                            Can I freeze them?
                            Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
                            Should I let them cool before cutting?
                            Yes, for clean slices.
                            Are these good for gifting?
                            Absolutely, they’re festive and crowd-loved.
                            🏁 Conclusion
                            These Valentine’s M&M’s Brownies – Browned Butter Blondies bring together everything you want in a festive dessert: deep chocolate flavor, buttery richness, and colorful crunch. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for celebrating love—one delicious square at a time.