There’s nothing quite like savoring a warm, gooey piece of perfection, fresh from the oven – especially when we’re talking about everyone’s favorite treat: chocolate brownies. This chocolate brownies recipe is a game-changer, providing both ease and indulgence in every bite.
My love affair with chocolate brownies started in grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I can still recall the aroma that filled the room as she baked on Sunday afternoons. These baking sessions weren’t just about creating delicious desserts but were cherished family moments. Hearing her hum a melody while expertly whisking and mixing was a comforting part of my childhood, and her secret recipe is now a family heirloom that I delight in sharing with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and indulgent taste. You don’t need fancy equipment—just a bowl and a whisk. The rich chocolate flavor comes from both cocoa powder and chocolate chips, ensuring every bite is a chocolate lover’s dream. Plus, it’s easily adaptable; make it your own with nuts or marshmallows. This Brownie Recipe combines all your favorite gooey and fudgy elements with a slightly crisp top—a perfect balance.
Ingredients Notes
- Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Semisweet or bittersweet suits various palates.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the sodium level, melted before mixing.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
- Sugar: A combination of granulated and brown sugar imparts sweetness and moisture.
- Eggs: Firmly whisked, they add richness and a light, airy texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square Baking Pan with parchment paper, extending it over the sides for easy removal.
Step 2
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
Step 3
Combine sugars and the melted chocolate mixture in a large mixing bowl, whisking until just blended. Add eggs one at a time, mixing each until incorporated.
Step 4
Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a tender texture.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool in the pan before lifting with parchment.
Storage Options
Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze. To reheat, thaw and warm in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes, which restores their gooey goodness.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, add a cup of chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter. You can swap chocolate chips for White Chocolate chunks for a delightful contrast. If avoiding eggs, consider using a flaxseed egg substitute to maintain a similar texture.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies shine as a standalone dessert but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an extra indulgent treat. They’re perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or as a sweet contribution to a potluck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe without sugar? Yes, you can replace sugars with a sugar alternative like Stevia or erythritol. However, note that this might affect the texture slightly, as sugar contributes to the brownies’ structure and moisture.
Why are my brownies cakey instead of fudgy? Overmixing can lead to cakey brownies due to the incorporation of too much air. Be gentle when mixing the batter after adding the flour to ensure a fudgier texture.
How can I tell when brownies are done? The edges will slightly pull away from the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter. Baking them to ‘just-done’ perfection keeps them deliciously gooey.
Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour sifted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add in salt, vanilla, and eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in the flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
