If you have a craving for something rich, chocolaty, and irresistibly fudgy, this Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a deceptively simple recipe that delivers a perfect balance between gooey, melted chocolate and a tender, moist crumb. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon treat or a special occasion, these brownies never fail to dazzle with their deep chocolate flavor and satisfying texture. The best part is how effortlessly these brownies come together, making them a favorite for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients, each contributing something special. From the glossy richness of melted butter and chocolate to the cozy depth of brown sugar and cocoa powder, every element plays a vital role in creating these luscious brownies.
- Unsalted butter (200g / 14 tbsp): Provides a rich, creamy base that helps the brownies stay moist and tender.
- Dark chocolate chips (200g / 1 1/4 cups): Adds intense chocolate flavor and creates melty pockets throughout the brownies.
- Brown sugar (1 cup / 175g): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that enhances the depth of flavor.
- Eggs (3, lightly beaten): Bind everything together and contribute to that fudgy, chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates the chocolate experience with warm, fragrant undertones.
- Plain flour (1/2 cup / 75g): Gives structure without making the brownies too cakey.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup / 30g): Boosts the chocolate intensity and darkens the color beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the chocolate notes.
- Dark chocolate block (180g / 6oz, optional): For extra chocolate richness when mixed in chunks.
- Roughly chopped walnuts (1.5 cups): Adds crunch and a toasty contrast, though feel free to swap in your favorite nuts.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
First things first, set your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C if using a fan-forced oven. Grease your 20cm (8-inch) square baking tin with a quick spray of oil for the easiest release, then line it with baking or parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the brownies out later.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your butter and dark chocolate chips. Heat in 30-second bursts—this usually takes about 1 minute 30 seconds—stirring after each interval to ensure everything melts evenly and smoothly. This glossy mixture is the foundation of your gooey brownies.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar, Vanilla, and Eggs
Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined. Then, add the eggs, mixing well until your batter is smooth and molten, with no streaks of egg remaining. This step is crucial for that fudgy consistency we all love.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt, folding gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your brownies could turn out less tender. Then fold in the optional chopped dark chocolate for luscious chocolate bits throughout the brownies.
Step 5: Add Nuts and Pour Batter
Stir in your chopped walnuts or preferred nuts for that amazing crunchy texture. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 24 minutes if you want gooey centers, 28 minutes for a fudgey but moist middle (my personal favorite), or up to 32 minutes for brownies that have a dense, fudge-cake-like texture. Use a toothpick to test your preferred doneness – it should come out with a few moist crumbs for best results.
Step 7: Cool Before Cutting
Once baked, let the brownies rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment overhang and allow them to cool completely for at least 20 minutes. This cooling time helps with clean cuts and lets the flavors set beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can instantly elevate the presentation. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side – the warm brownies with cold ice cream is an absolute winner in any crowd.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside fresh berries to cut through the richness or pair with a creamy, mild cheese like mascarpone for a unique combination. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich glass of milk always hits the spot with these brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and skewer them with fruit or marshmallows for a fun dessert kebab. You can also create layered desserts by crumbling brownies over whipped cream or pudding for a deconstructed take that keeps surprising your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Thanks to their moist texture, they stay soft and delicious without drying out, though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these tasty treats later, wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ll still be treated to brownies that taste freshly baked.
Reheating
Warm individual brownie pieces in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or pop in a low oven (150°C / 300°F) wrapped in foil until just heated through. This brings back that freshly baked, gooey sensation that makes this Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe so addictive.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the brownies will be sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor. Dark chocolate is preferred for its rich depth and slight bitterness, which balances the sweetness perfectly.
Is it necessary to use nuts in the recipe?
Nuts add a lovely crunch and complement the softness of the brownies, but they’re entirely optional. Feel free to leave them out or swap them with chocolate chunks or dried fruit to suit your taste.
How can I make these brownies more cakey?
To achieve a cakier brownie, try increasing the flour slightly and baking for a minute or two longer. However, this recipe is designed for fudgy brownies, which are the star for many chocolate lovers.
What’s the best way to test if brownies are done?
Use a toothpick inserted about an inch into the brownies. For gooey brownies, it should come out with a few moist crumbs stuck to it. For more set brownies, it should be mostly clean but not completely dry.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature or warm slightly before putting it in the oven for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe—it’s one of those timeless treats that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re making them for a weekday pick-me-up or a weekend crowd-pleaser, these brownies bring comfort and joy with every fudgy bite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and be ready to delight everyone lucky enough to share these chocolatey gems!
Print
Easy Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 16 brownies depending on size
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich and fudgy homemade chocolate brownies that are easy to make and perfect for any chocolate lover. These brownies feature melting dark chocolate and a hint of vanilla, with optional chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch. Bake them to your preferred level of gooeyness or fudgey texture using simple steps and common ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 200g (1 3/4 US sticks) unsalted butter
- 200g (7 oz / 1 1/4 cups) dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup (175g) brown sugar, loosely packed
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (75g) plain flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 180g (6 oz) dark chocolate block/bar (optional)
- 1.5 cups roughly chopped walnuts or other nuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan forced) to prepare for baking the brownies.
- Prepare Baking Tin: Spray an 8-inch (20cm) square baking tin with oil and line it with baking parchment or paper, ensuring there is some overhang to easily lift out the brownies later.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the unsalted butter and dark chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between bursts, until fully melted and smooth (about 1 minute 30 seconds total).
- Add Sugar, Vanilla, and Eggs: Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture. Then add the beaten eggs and mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and molten.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the plain flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined and smooth. Fold in the roughly chopped chocolate bar if using.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 24 minutes for a very gooey center, 28 minutes for a fudgey yet moist texture (recommended), or 32 minutes for a moist, fudge-cake-like brownie.
- Adjust Baking Time if Needed: If you do not stir in the extra chopped chocolate, reduce the baking time by 2 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Rest and Cool: Let the brownies rest in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting out using the parchment overhang. Allow them to cool completely for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Using baking parchment with overhang makes it easy to remove the brownies from the tin without breaking.
- Microwaving butter and chocolate in short bursts prevents scorching and ensures a smooth melt.
- Adjust bake time to your preferred brownie texture: less time for gooey, more time for cakey.
- Walnuts can be substituted or omitted according to preference.
- Brownies keep well and can be frozen; thaw before serving for best texture.
