Fudgy Brownies
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Dense, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey - these brownies achieve that perfect balance between cake and candy that makes them utterly irresistible. Our technique combines melted chocolate with cocoa powder for maximum flavor, uses brown butter for nutty depth, and finishes with flaky sea salt that makes the chocolate sing. Slightly underbaked for that coveted gooey center, these brownies will ruin you for all others.
Time & Quantities
Method & Ingredients
Required Equipment: 8x8 inch baking pan, double boiler or microwave, mixing bowl, whisk
Cooking Method: Baking
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Brown the butter: melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling until it turns golden and smells nutty, about 5 minutes - this adds incredible depth!
- Remove from heat and immediately add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Whisk in sugar until combined, then beat in eggs one at a time until glossy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into chocolate mixture just until combined - don't overmix or you'll get tough brownies!
- Fold in chocolate chips if using for extra chocolate chunks.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top gently.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty contrast.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes until edges are set but center still looks slightly underdone - this ensures fudgy perfection!
- Cool completely in pan before lifting out and cutting - patience prevents crumbling and ensures clean slices.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage Advice: Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 week. Actually improve in flavor after a day as ingredients meld together.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Brownies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual squares for grab-and-go treats. Thaw at room temperature.
Nutritional & Dietary Information
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g (Saturated: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 26g (Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 20g)
- Vitamin A: 4% DV
- Vitamin C: 0% DV
- Calcium: 2% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Allergen Information: Contains gluten (flour), dairy (butter), eggs
Dietary Information: Not suitable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets. Contains multiple allergens.
Serving & Variations
Serving Suggestions: Cut into perfect squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for an elegant dessert presentation.
Wine or Drink Pairing: Pair with dessert wines like Port from Portugal or late-harvest Zinfandel from California. Coffee, milk, or bourbon provide perfect flavor combinations.
Possible Recipe Variations: Add nuts like walnuts or pecans, swirl in peanut butter or cream cheese, or create mint brownies with peppermint extract and chocolate chips.
Additional Notes: Brown butter is the secret weapon for extra flavor. Slight underbaking creates the perfect fudgy texture - trust the timing!