Name: Homemade Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp baking powder; ½ cup chocolate chips (for extra gooey brownies); ½ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

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There’s nothing quite like a batch of homemade brownies fresh from the oven. Rich, fudgy, and full of chocolatey goodness, these brownies are everything a chocolate lover could ask for. Whether you enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or paired with a hot cup of coffee, this easy recipe will quickly become your go-to for indulgent treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
Rich and fudgy texture with a perfect crackly top
Easy to customize with mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips
Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to special gatherings

Ingredients

You’ll find the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below, but here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Cocoa powder
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Melt the Butter and Mix with Sugars

In a saucepan or microwave, melt the butter and whisk it together with granulated and brown sugar until smooth.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Let the mixture cool slightly, then mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t overmix the batter to keep the brownies fudgy
Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for clean slices
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunch
Use dark chocolate chips for an extra rich taste
Swirl in peanut butter or caramel for a fun twist
Substitute half the butter with applesauce for a slightly healthier version

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Homemade brownies are delicious on their own, but here are some ways to elevate them:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce
Pair with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee
Dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style touch

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! Brownies store well and can even taste better the next day as the flavors settle.

How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?
Use a higher fat-to-flour ratio, and don’t overbake them. Taking them out of the oven when the center is slightly underdone ensures a fudgy texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and increase the baking time slightly.

What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can use melted chocolate instead, though it will slightly alter the texture and sweetness.

Conclusion

Making homemade brownies from scratch is so easy, and the results are always worth it. Whether you love them gooey or chewy, these brownies will satisfy any chocolate craving. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every rich, fudgy bite!