Indulge in the irresistible, gooey delight of Chocolate Brownie bars, where rich cocoa flavors meet a tender, moist texture. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these delectable treats have become a staple for dessert enthusiasts everywhere. Not only are they delightful to taste, but they’re also a breeze to prepare, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Growing up, my family gatherings were never complete without Aunt Sally’s famous Chocolate Brownies on the dessert table. I remember sneaking into the kitchen as a kid to nab a corner piece before dinner was served. Now, when I whip up a batch of these chocolate brownie bars, it brings back all those fond memories, and I’m thrilled to pass this beloved recipe down to my children.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chocolate brownie bars are a chocolate lover’s dream. The recipe is straightforward, using everyday ingredients that deliver unmatched flavor. The balance between fudgy and cakey textures is perfect, making each bite a heavenly experience. Ideal for any gathering or as a simple weeknight dessert, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients Notes
For exceptional results, use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate taste. If you prefer a less intense flavor, opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips in place of dark chocolate chips. For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans. All ingredients are typically available at most grocery stores.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch Baking Pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and fluffy, then add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Step 3
Sift together 1/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 4
Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 5
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let them cool completely before slicing into bars.
Storage Options
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For prolonged freshness, you can freeze them for up to two months. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Consider adding a layer of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt for gourmet flair.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chocolate brownie bars warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an indulgent treat. They’re perfect for birthday parties, potluck gatherings, or as a cozy after-dinner dessert. Pair them with a refreshing glass of milk or a robust cup of coffee for a delightful combo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder? Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder with unsweetened baking chocolate by using 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate for every 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and reducing the butter by 1 tablespoon per ounce used.
How can I tell if the brownies are done? The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not raw batter. The edges will also start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Can I add frosting on top? Absolutely! A layer of chocolate ganache or Cream Cheese Frosting complements these brownies beautifully. Ensure the brownies have cooled completely before adding any frosting to prevent it from melting.
chocolate brownie bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars.