Are you ready to indulge in a chocolate delight? This brownies recipe brings together the perfect balance of fudgy texture and rich flavor. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple treat for yourself, these brownies will leave you wanting more. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dessert that impresses. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 16 brownies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 brownie) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This is calculated for a standard-sized brownie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to make these brownies gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Serving and Pairings
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh berries or whipped cream also make excellent companions!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the brownies tough.
- Ensure your oven is preheated for even baking.
- Use quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Let brownies cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with add-ins like nuts or caramel for unique flavors.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal from the pan.
- For extra fudginess, slightly underbake the brownies.
- You can add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate bars?
Yes, cocoa powder works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure to use unsweetened cocoa for the best results.
How do I know when my brownies are done?
Brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid fully dry.
Can I make these brownies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
What can I do if my brownies are too cakey?
If your brownies turned out too cakey, it may have been due to overmixing or baking too long. Next time, try reducing the baking time.
How should I serve brownies for a party?
Cut them into small squares and serve on a platter. You can also dust with powdered sugar for a nice presentation.
Conclusion
This brownies recipe is a classic that never fails to impress. With its rich, fudgy texture and simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a batch for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with ice cream, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and delight your guests!
Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs.
