Every girl says this, I know, but I’ve never been one for Valentine’s pomp. Years ago Brian and I swore off even trying to go out to dinner after a 9:30pm reservation at Prune had us actually sitting down at 11pm on a Tuesday night. Still, we usually exchange a record or two (the standard gift for all occasions) and he’ll get me some Mast Brothers chocolate and flowers (I may be low key in other regards, but flowers are required.). In a gesture I adore, he also gets flowers for our daughters. And I like to surprise him with something sweet, since Valentine’s Day is an excellent excuse to bake up a rich dessert.

Brownies seemed like a good place to begin my Valentine’s baking, especially since, after weeks of healthful eating, treats were necessary. [Read more…]