Description
These decadent chocolate brownies are rich, fudgy, and easy to make. With a perfect balance of buttery sweetness and deep cocoa flavor, they are ideal for any chocolate lover. Optional chocolate chips add extra gooey chocolate bursts, creating an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging yourself.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted) – Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Use pure vanilla extract for better taste.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder – Use unsweetened cocoa powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1 cup chocolate chips – Fold in gently if using.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well incorporated. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure an even mixture without lumps.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined – avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Add Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the chocolate chips carefully to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 12 squares. This helps them set and makes slicing cleaner.
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and butter for the best chocolate flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a fudgy texture.
- For extra richness, add a handful of chopped nuts or swirl in caramel before baking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
