Why These Brownies Are a Must-Try
Brownies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe combines rich chocolate flavor with a gooey texture that melts in your mouth. These fudgy brownies are easy to make and customizable to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter:
- 200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 150g unsalted butter
- 200g granulated sugar
- 100g brown sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 30g cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 50g chopped walnuts
- 50g chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Grease the edges lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter.
- Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave (in 30-second intervals).
- Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs.
- Whisk for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and the melted chocolate mixture. Mix well.
4: Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
- Avoid overmixing to maintain the fudgy texture.
5: Add Toppings and Bake
- Stir in any optional add-ins (walnuts, chocolate chips, etc.).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Don’t overbake: Check your brownies at the 25-minute mark. Overbaking leads to a dry texture.
- Use quality chocolate: This elevates the flavor significantly.
- Customize the toppings: Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
FAQs
What’s the difference between fudgy and cakey brownies?
Fudgy brownies have a higher fat-to-flour ratio, while cakey brownies have more flour and rely on baking powder for a lighter texture.
Can I make brownies without eggs?
Yes, substitute eggs with ingredients like mashed banana, applesauce, or a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
How should I store brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the sugar accordingly.
How do I make my brownies extra gooey?
Reduce the baking time slightly and let the brownies cool before cutting to maintain a gooey center.
This recipe ensures you’ll create the perfect brownies every time. Try it and share your results!