Perfect and Easy Brownie Recipe

Brownies, the ultimate comfort food, are beloved by people of all ages. These decadent treats perfectly balance rich, fudgy texture and sweet, chocolatey flavor. Whether you prefer gooey or cakey, brownies can be customized to suit any taste.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create classic brownies that will satisfy your cravings. From choosing the finest ingredients to perfecting your bake, we’ve got every detail covered. So, let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch pan with grease, then dust it with flour for a smooth, non-stick finish.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, whisking until evenly blended.

Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just blended. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Extras (optional)

If desired, stir in the walnuts and chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.  

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before slicing them into perfect squares.

Tips

• For fudgier brownies, underbake slightly.
• To achieve a cakier texture, extend the baking time by a few extra minutes.
• To make brownies extra rich, use high-quality dark chocolate.
• Experiment with different add-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or sprinkles.

Variations

Brownies are versatile, and you can customize them to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Nutty Brownies: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture.
• Salted Caramel Brownies: Swirl in ¼ cup of salted caramel sauce before baking for a decadent sweet-and-salty twist.
• Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter onto the batter and swirl it with a knife before baking.
• Mint Chocolate Brownies: Stir in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract or add crushed peppermint candies to the batter for a refreshing minty flavor.
• Double Chocolate Brownies: For a sweet contrast, replace some or all of the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. They will remain soft and moist.
• Freezing: Brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap each portion snugly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20 seconds.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

Yes, you can substitute butter with oil in a 1:1 ratio. However, using oil will result in a denser, chewier brownie.

How do I prevent my brownies from cracking?

To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the batter, and don’t overbake the brownies. Also, let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting.

What is the best way to cut brownies?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut clean, even pieces.

Can I make brownies without eggs?

Yes, you can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) or a commercial egg replacer. This will result in a slightly denser texture but still be delicious.

Conclusion

With their versatility and ease of preparation, brownies are a delightful treat for any occasion. By following this recipe and incorporating your favorite flavor variations, you can create a batch of brownies that will impress your friends and family. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade brownies!

Enjoy your homemade Brownies!