The Best Brownies Recipe Ever
There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich, fudgy brownie fresh out of the oven. The aroma that wafts through the kitchen, the shiny, crackly top, and the first bite that melts in your mouth—these brownies are a true treat for the senses. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply indulge in a sweet craving, this recipe promises to be your go-to. Trust me, once you try The Best Brownies Recipe Ever, you’ll never want to make another brownie again!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
These brownies are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of chocolate in its finest form. Combining the deep, rich flavor of cocoa powder with the sweetness of brown and granulated sugars, each bite is like a hug from the inside. The addition of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, making these brownies irresistibly delicious. The optional chocolate chips add an extra layer of indulgence, while chopped pecans provide a delightful crunch. This recipe has something for everyone—whether you enjoy them plain or loaded with extras, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Shopping List
- 1 cup (226g) butter
- 1 cup (84g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (213g) brown sugar
- 1 cup (198g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (about 200g)
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.58g) espresso powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (1g) kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons (9g) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 cup (114g) chopped pecans (optional)
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
- Whisk – for mixing eggs and sugars
- Spatula – for folding in dry ingredients
- 9×13 inch baking pan – for baking the brownies
- Parchment paper – for easy removal of brownies
- Oven – for baking
The Best Brownies Recipe Ever: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies cook evenly and come out perfectly fudgy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step is essential for preventing sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup (226g) of butter. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Mix the Sugars and Cocoa Powder
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, 1 cup (84g) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup (213g) of brown sugar, and 1 cup (198g) of granulated sugar. Whisk together until well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
Add the 4 large eggs to the chocolate mixture, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. The mixture should become glossy and well-blended.
Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon (0.58g) of espresso powder, and 1/2 teaspoon (1g) of kosher salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 7: Add Vanilla and Optional Extras
Stir in 2 teaspoons (9g) of vanilla extract. If you’re using chocolate chips and/or chopped pecans, now is the time to fold them in gently.
Step 8: Bake
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Seasonal Twists
- Fall: Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Mix in crushed peppermint candies for a festive flavor.
- Spring: Incorporate chopped walnuts and a hint of orange zest for a fresh taste.
- Summer: Swirl in peanut butter or Nutella for a rich, creamy texture.
Chef’s Rationale
The balance of sugars in this recipe not only contributes to the depth of flavor but also impacts the texture. Brown sugar adds moisture, while granulated sugar aids in achieving that perfect crust. The addition of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making your brownies taste like coffee, while the eggs bring richness and structure to the final product. Using chocolate chips and pecans is purely optional, but they can elevate the brownies to a whole new level of indulgence!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Ask the Chef
Can I substitute the butter with something else?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s melted before mixing!
What if I don’t have espresso powder?
If you don’t have espresso powder, you can simply omit it. However, if you want to maintain that rich chocolate flavor, consider adding a little instant coffee granules instead.
How do I know when my brownies are done baking?
Brownies are done when the edges look set and the center has a slight jiggle. The toothpick test is also a great indicator; you want some moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Sally’s Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Pinch of Yum’s Easy Weeknight Pasta
- Minimalist Baker’s 30-Minute Vegan Chili
- Sally’s One-Bowl Banana Bread
Bring It Home
Now that you’ve mastered The Best Brownies Recipe Ever, it’s time to share these delightful treats with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these brownies are sure to be the star of the show. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the fudgiest, most chocolatey brownies you’ve ever tasted. Happy baking!
The Best Brownies Recipe Ever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt 1 cup of butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, espresso powder, and kosher salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract and fold in chocolate chips and/or pecans if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
