Name: Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup All-purpose flour; 1/3 cup Hershey's cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon Baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted); 1 cup Sugar (granulated); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Walnuts (broken into pieces, optional)

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the smell of freshly baked brownies wafting through the kitchen. It transports you back to simpler times, perhaps to a cozy kitchen where the warm, gooey goodness was a family favorite. Today, I’m excited to share with you an Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch that’s not only easy to make but also packed with rich chocolate flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, these brownies will become your go-to recipe for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon treat or a dessert at a gathering.

Why It Works Every Time

This Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch is foolproof for several reasons. The combination of melted butter and sugar creates a moist and chewy texture. Using Hershey’s cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor that is simply irresistible. The balance of flour and cocoa ensures that the brownies rise perfectly but still maintain that fudgy consistency we all crave. Plus, with the option to add walnuts, you can customize the crunch factor to your liking.

What to Buy

To whip up these delightful brownies, here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour (1/2 cup) – This forms the base of your brownie batter.
Hershey’s cocoa powder (1/3 cup) – The star ingredient for rich chocolate flavor.
Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Helps achieve a light texture.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
Butter (1/2 cup) – Unsalted is best for controlling salt levels.
Sugar (1 cup) – Granulated sugar adds sweetness and structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
Eggs (2) – Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
Walnuts (1 cup, broken into pieces, optional) – Adds a delightful crunch.

Tools of the Trade

To make the baking process smoother, gather these kitchen tools:

Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
Whisk – To mix wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
9×9 inch baking pan – Perfect size for achieving that ideal brownie thickness.
Parchment paper – Helps with easy removal of brownies from the pan.
Rubber spatula – Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!

Directions: Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create these delicious brownies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. This step is crucial for keeping your brownies intact when cutting.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Hershey’s cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until completely liquid. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Combine Sugar and Butter

In another mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir just until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your brownies fudgy.

Step 8: Fold in Walnuts

If using, gently fold in the broken walnut pieces. This adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate.

Step 9: Pour into Pan

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 11: Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out and onto a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

These brownies are versatile and can be adapted to suit different occasions. Here are some fresh takes:

Add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella for an indulgent twist.
Top with chocolate chips before baking for extra chocolatey goodness.
Substitute half the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making the Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch, keep these tips in mind:

Ensure your butter is melted but not too hot; this prevents cooking the eggs when combined.
Don’t overbake! Brownies continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Allow them to cool completely for cleaner cuts.
Use quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your brownies fresh and delicious, consider the following storage tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Brownies can also be frozen! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reader Q&A

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate bars?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed specifically for cocoa powder, which gives the brownies a rich chocolate flavor without the added fat of chocolate bars.

How can I make these brownies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, feel free to omit them or replace them with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take a bit longer.

Hungry for More?

Indulging in the Old-Fashioned Hersheys Brownies Recipe: Classic Homemade from Scratch is just the beginning of your baking journey. Explore more recipes and tips to enhance your culinary adventures. Whether it’s a sweet treat or a savory dish, your kitchen is a place of creativity and joy. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the magic happen. Happy baking!