Homemade Brownie Recipe
Introduction
These homemade brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and an optional espresso twist to deepen the chocolate flavor, this recipe is perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a classic treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal, and set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter by heating in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until fully melted. Once melted, stir in the sugar, microwave for 1 more minute, then stir again.
- Step 3: Pour the butter and sugar mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the cocoa powder and optional espresso powder, stirring to combine. Then add the eggs, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Gradually add the flour, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. Fold in the chocolate chips if using, then pour the batter into the prepared pan. Optionally, sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips on top.
- Step 5: Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake to maintain fudginess.
- Step 6: Let the brownies cool for at least 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
- For a more intense chocolate taste, consider using dark cocoa powder.
- If you don’t have instant espresso powder, a small amount of brewed coffee can also enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Underbaking slightly helps keep the brownies chewy and moist.
Storage
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a freshly baked feel.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter; just add a pinch more salt to the batter to balance the flavors.
What is the purpose of espresso powder in brownies?
Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. It’s optional but adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
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Homemade Brownie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
Description
This homemade brownie recipe delivers rich, fudgy brownies with a perfect balance of sweetness and deep chocolate flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these brownies have a moist and tender crumb thanks to the combination of melted butter, cocoa powder, and a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate. They’re quick to prepare and perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the edges for easy removal of the brownies later. Set aside.
- Melt Butter and Mix with Sugar: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter by heating it in 30-second intervals until fully melted. Stir in the granulated sugar afterward, then microwave the mixture for an additional 1 minute and stir again to combine fully.
- Combine Cocoa and Wet Ingredients: Transfer the butter and sugar mixture into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder and optional instant espresso powder to enrich the chocolate flavor. Add the eggs, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Add Flour and Chocolate Chips: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks for extra melty pockets of chocolate. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Optionally, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top for a decorative finish.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs — avoid overbaking to keep brownies fudgy and moist. It’s better to slightly underbake than overbake.
- Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the dish, then slice them into 15 squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, don’t skip the instant espresso powder, though it is optional.
- Be careful not to overmix once you add flour to maintain the brownies’ tender texture.
- Use parchment paper to make removing the brownies from the pan easy and to ensure clean edges.
- Brownies are best eaten within 2 days but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- To keep brownies moist, avoid overbaking; check early especially if your oven runs hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownies, homemade brownies, chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, easy brownie recipe, baking dessert
