Dense, fudgy, and topped with a signature crackly crust, this brownie recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re craving a quick dessert fix or baking for a crowd, these brownies deliver indulgent flavors with minimal effort. Perfectly balanced between rich cocoa and sweet chocolate chips, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
What Are These Brownies?
These brownies are the epitome of decadent chocolate desserts, combining a fudgy texture with a shiny, crackly top. Made with pantry staples like butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour, they are quick to whip up yet taste like they came from a gourmet bakery. Optional chocolate chips add extra bursts of melty goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Requires just one bowl and simple ingredients.
- Customizable: Add nuts, extra chocolate, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
- Foolproof Texture: Perfectly fudgy and moist every time.
- Versatile: Great for birthdays, potlucks, or just satisfying a chocolate craving.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (90g) cocoa powder
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating the mixture until it becomes thick and glossy.
Adding the Dry Ingredients
- Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt directly into the bowl.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If using, stir in the chocolate chips or chunks for added richness.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for the perfect treat.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep brownies in an airtight container for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Freezing Instructions
- Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Brownies: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Double Chocolate: Use a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
- Espresso Brownies: Add 1 tsp of instant coffee granules to enhance the chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Why is my brownie batter so thick?
This is normal! A thick batter ensures the brownies have a dense, fudgy texture.
How do I get that crackly top?
Beating the eggs and sugar until glossy creates a thin, meringue-like layer that forms the crackly crust.
These brownies are everything you could want—rich, fudgy, and easy to make. With a simple ingredient list and endless customization options, this recipe is guaranteed to become your go-to for all things chocolatey. Give them a try today and share your baking experience with family and friends!
PrintBest Brownie Recipe Ever
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
Description
Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies with a perfect crackly top. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this easy recipe is your go-to for a quick, satisfying chocolate fix.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (90g) cocoa powder
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is thick and glossy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold until just combined—do not overmix. Stir in chocolate chips if desired.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Slice: Let the brownies cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.
- These brownies freeze well; wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250 (per serving, approximately)