Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers and anyone craving a decadent treat. These brownies boast an incredibly rich and fudgy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. If you’ve ever had a store-bought brownie that left you wanting more, you’ll appreciate the depth of flavor and homemade goodness packed into these fudgy delights. They quickly become the go-to dessert for parties, get-togethers, and even a simple Saturday night at home.
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I still remember the first time I baked these brownies. It was a rainy afternoon when the skies seemed to mirror my cravings for something sweet and indulgent. I gathered the simplest of ingredients and watched the magic happen. The aroma filled my kitchen, and it wasn’t long before my family gathered around, eager to steal a taste. With just a short prep time and a baking duration that allows you to catch up on your favorite show, these brownies are not just a treat; they’re a comforting experience. I can’t wait for you to whip up your batch of Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies and feel the joy they bring!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy fresh brownies in about 45 minutes!
- Irresistible Flavor: The bittersweet chocolate makes each bite a heavenly experience, perfectly balanced with a slight sweetness.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These brownies have a shiny top with a crackling finish that looks as good as they taste.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for any occasion—be it a snack, dessert at dinner, or a treat to share with friends.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets with simple substitutions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This forms the base of our brownie, contributing richness. If you prefer, you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version, but it will slightly alter the flavor.
- 8 oz. bittersweet chocolate: I recommend Ghirardelli 60% cacao baking chips for deep, rich chocolate flavor. If unavailable, any high-quality bittersweet brand works well.
- 2 cups sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that coveted chewy texture. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper sweetness, but adjust the ratio slightly.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor and adds aroma; avoid imitation extracts for the best taste.
- 5 large eggs: These are crucial for structure and moisture. Use room temperature eggs for an easier blend.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: It intensifies the chocolate flavor. Choose a high-quality cocoa powder; Dutch processed can add a smoother taste.
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: This provides structure; using too much can lead to dry brownies, so be sure to measure accurately.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: The pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor; don’t skip this ingredient!
How to Make Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a 13×9 inch baking pan to ensure nothing sticks and for easy removal.
Melt butter and chocolate: In a 3-quart saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 8 oz. bittersweet chocolate. Stir slowly until fully melted and smooth, then remove from heat and let it cool. This step is key; letting it cool slightly before adding other ingredients prevents cooking the eggs.
Whisk in sugar and vanilla: Once cooled, whisk in 2 cups granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until the mixture is glossy and well combined. Then add 5 large eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. This process ensures a smooth batter without overmixing.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This prevents lumps and helps evenly distribute the cocoa and flour in the batter.
Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually combine the dry mixture with the chocolate mixture, whisking just until everything is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay. This will create the fudgy texture we adore.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-35 minutes, keeping an eye out for a set edge and a slightly gooey center, which is perfect for fudgy brownies. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Cool and enjoy: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. The longer they cool, the easier they are to cut and the better the texture becomes. Enjoy them plain or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent experience!
Storing & Reheating
To store your brownies, keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to a week. For freezing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, pop them into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds; this refreshing will enhance their fudgy goodness, although you might notice a subtle shift in texture when thawed.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- When melting the chocolate, be careful not to let it get too hot as it can seize, making it grainy.
- Use eggs at room temperature to ensure better mixing; cold eggs can lead to uneven batter.
- If you prefer a more cake-like brownie, increase the flour slightly and bake a bit longer.
- For an extra touch, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking for flavor variations.
- Letting brownies cool thoroughly ensures easier slicing, so resist the temptation to cut them too early!
These fudgy brownies are not just a recipe but an invitation to enjoy what homemade baking is all about. They come together quickly and make everything feel warmer and more special. So, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or an upcoming potluck, I hope you give this recipe a try.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder for chocolate, but the texture and flavor will differ. If doing so, use about 2/3 cup of cocoa powder and adjust by adding extra butter or oil to keep moisture intact.
Why are my brownies dry?
Dry brownies are often the result of overbaking. Make sure to check the brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. They should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center.
Can I freeze brownies?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
What adds more flavor to brownies?
You can enhance the flavor by adding extracts, such as almond or peppermint, or mix in a pinch of espresso powder which intensifies the chocolate flavor without making them taste like coffee.
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📖 Recipe Card
Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These fudgy dark chocolate brownies deliver a rich and indulgent flavor. Made with simple ingredients like bittersweet chocolate and butter, they are perfect for sweet cravings or gatherings. Enjoy homemade brownies that are easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz. bittersweet chocolate, (i used ghirardelli 60% cacao baking chips)
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 13×9 inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter and bittersweet chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool.
- When the chocolate mixture has cooled, whisk in the sugar and vanilla. Then whisk in the eggs one at a time until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix this dry mixture with the chocolate mixture and whisk thoroughly until combined.
- Spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-35 minutes. Let cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
For a richer flavor, allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
