Description

These rich, dense, and incredibly moist brownies rely on a simple technique of melting butter and chocolate together to create a glossy, intense base. They are easy to make, require no fancy equipment, and deliver that perfect fudgy texture without being cakey.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate bars, finely chopped
1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or walnuts

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly.
Combine chopped semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then continue in 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and granulated sugar vigorously for about 2 minutes until pale and thickened.
Pour the warm chocolate-butter mixture into the egg-sugar bowl and add vanilla extract. Whisk gently until combined.
Sift all-purpose flour and salt over the wet mixture. Gently fold in with a silicone spatula until just combined and no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set and pulling away from the pan, but the center is still slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 hours/overnight) before lifting out and cutting.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid a cakey texture. Ensure brownies cool completely before cutting to allow the structure to set. For a shiny top, whisk eggs and sugar vigorously. Chocolate chips are not recommended as they contain stabilizers; use chopped bars instead.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square (from an 8x
Calories: 280
Sugar: 24
Sodium: 120
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 11
Carbohydrates: 32
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4

Keywords: brownies, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert, homemade brownies, easy baking, moist brownies, gluten-free option, vegan option