Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 16 squares
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
Why Make This Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares
There’s something truly special about a homemade brownie, and the Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares deliver just that! These delightful treats are rich, chocolaty, and incredibly fudgy, making them an irresistible dessert for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, having a cozy family night, or simply craving something sweet, these brownies hit the spot. Plus, they are simple to whip up, using pantry staples and taking just over half an hour from start to finish. With their glossy top and soft, chewy texture, these brownie squares will be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
How to Make Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares
Making these fudgy brownie squares is a breeze! Follow these steps to achieve that perfect chewy consistency with a rich cocoa flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easily removing the brownies later.
Step 2: Mixing
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once fully melted, take it off the heat and mix in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be glossy and well combined—this is where the magic starts!
Step 3: Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Beat in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. You want to mix it enough to eliminate dry spots but be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and fudgy, perfect for our brownie squares.
Step 4: Finishing
Spread the brownie mixture evenly into the prepared pan. If you like a chocolatey punch, fold in the chocolate chips for an added surprise. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—do not overcook! They are done when the edges pull away slightly from the pan. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting into squares.
How to Serve Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares
These fudgy brownies are delightful on their own, but there are plenty of ways to serve them! Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent sundae, or drizzle with warm chocolate sauce for an extra treat. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or serve with fresh berries for a touch of freshness.
How to Store Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares
To store your delicious brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap them well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to enhance the cocoa.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce—though the texture will be slightly different.
- Experiment with add-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips to customize your brownies!
Delicious Variations
- Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies: Swirl in some peanut butter into the mixture before baking for a nutty twist!
- Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add peppermint extract or crushed mint candies for a refreshing flavor.
- Nutty Brownies: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a lovely crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can melt dark chocolate and replace equal amounts of cocoa powder with it. Reduce the butter slightly to account for the chocolate’s fat content. -
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. -
What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe from 1/4 teaspoon to a pinch. -
How can I enhance the chocolate flavor?
Adding a dash of espresso powder can intensify the chocolate flavor without making them taste like coffee. -
Are these brownies suitable for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe makes 16 squares, making it a perfect treat for parties or gatherings. You can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch.
Conclusion
These Best Classic Fudgy Brownie Squares are simple to make and incredibly delicious, embodying that perfect balance of chewiness and rich chocolate flavor. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delightful dessert that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Share them with loved ones or savor them alone—either way, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients and get started; your perfect brownie experience awaits!
