There’s something deeply satisfying about a rich, fudgy brownie loaded with crunchy walnuts, and the Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts Recipe delivers exactly that indulgence in every bite. With its perfect balance of intense chocolate flavor and nutty texture, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a cozy treat, these brownies promise gooey centers, crackly tops, and that wonderful homemade goodness you won’t want to share—though your friends might insist you do!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up these delicious brownies doesn’t require a long list of complicated ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor, from the buttery richness to the cocoa’s deep chocolate notes and the walnuts’ satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): This adds a luscious, moist base that melts perfectly into fudgy brownies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies while contributing to that glossy, crackly top texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and help create a tender, rich crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with a subtle aromatic warmth.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the deep chocolatey taste that every brownie needs.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure without making the brownies cakey when measured just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just the right amount of lift for a fudgy yet soft texture.
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional): For an extra melty, chocolate boost in every bite.
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This small step ensures your brownies won’t stick and come out in perfect squares.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and slightly glossy. This creates the rich, tender base that’ll give your brownies that classic fudgy texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Doing this gradually ensures a smooth, light batter that helps your brownies bake evenly and develop a beautiful crumb.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder just until combined. Avoid overmixing here; you want to keep the batter tender and fudgy rather than cakey.
Step 5: Fold in Walnuts and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips if using. These add wonderful texture contrasts — the walnuts bring crunch and the chips deliver gooey pockets of chocolate.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs sticking on it. This timing keeps them fudgy and irresistible.
Step 7: Cool Completely Before Slicing
Let the brownies cool fully in the pan so they set properly. This step is key for clean slices and the perfect chewy texture you’re aiming for.
How to Serve Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or drizzle some melted chocolate over the brownies for an elegant finish. Fresh raspberries or a few extra chopped walnuts on top can boost both color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Try serving these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool creaminess contrasts beautifully with the rich, warm brownie and nutty texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve on a dessert platter alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also layer brownies in a trifle with pudding and whipped cream for a show-stopping layered dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Keeping them sealed preserves their moist texture and keeps the walnuts from going stale.
Freezing
You can freeze brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a quick but decadent treat.
Reheating
Warm brownies briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their gooey goodness. This is especially delightful if you’re serving them with ice cream or drizzled chocolate.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work beautifully as alternatives and bring their unique flavors and textures. Just be sure to chop them roughly for the best crunch.
How do I make these brownies extra fudgy?
For an ultra-fudgy texture, try slightly underbaking the brownies and then chilling them before cutting. This sets them perfectly while keeping them dense and moist.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
Yes! Dark chocolate chips add a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that complements the cocoa powder nicely, just be mindful of the overall bitterness if you prefer sweeter brownies.
Is it necessary to use baking powder in this recipe?
Using a small amount of baking powder helps lift the brownies slightly so they aren’t too dense, but you can omit it if you prefer your brownies extra dense and fudgy.
What’s the best way to chop walnuts for this recipe?
Chop walnuts into roughly quarter- to half-inch pieces to ensure you get nice crunchy bites without overpowering the brownie’s texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a cozy celebration in every bite, the Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts Recipe is your go-to. Simple ingredients transform into pure magic with easy steps and a rewarding chocolate-nutty flavor that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give this recipe a whirl — your kitchen will smell heavenly and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Walnuts, a perfect homemade treat combining intense chocolate flavor with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts. These classic American dessert bars are easy to make, featuring a moist texture and optional semisweet chocolate chips for extra chocolate indulgence.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined and smooth, creating a rich base for your batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and smooth, which helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make brownies tough.
- Fold in Walnuts and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and optional semisweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly through the batter.
- Pour and Spread Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating fudgy perfection.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares to set the texture and make cutting easier.
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them and chill before cutting.
- Toast the walnuts beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add depth to the brownies.
