Name: Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa; 1/2 cup boiling water; 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate (finely chopped); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 2 egg yolks; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

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If you’re a brownie enthusiast, you know that nothing beats the rich, fudgy goodness of a freshly baked batch straight from your own kitchen. Forget about box mixes; these Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies are here to steal the show with their deep chocolate flavor and perfectly chewy texture. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a batch that will have everyone begging for the recipe. Grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into brownie bliss!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These brownies are not just any brownies; they are a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Made with a combination of Dutch-processed cocoa and unsweetened chocolate, they deliver a rich flavor that box mixes simply can’t compete with. The addition of egg yolks ensures a chewy texture while the semisweet chocolate chips provide delightful pockets of melted chocolate in every bite. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you’ll never look at a box mix the same way again!

What We’re Using

1 cup (28.67g) Dutch-processed cocoa: This cocoa adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
1/2 cup (125ml) + 2 tablespoons boiling water: The boiling water helps bloom the cocoa, enhancing its flavor.
2 ounces (56.7g) unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped: This adds intense chocolate depth.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Butter brings richness and moisture.
1 cup (109ml) + 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds tenderness and keeps the brownies fudgy.
2 eggs: Provides structure and binding.
2 egg yolks: Enhances the fudgy texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: For a lovely aromatic flavor.
2 cups (500g) granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the chocolate.
1 cup (218.75g) all-purpose flour: Gives the brownies their structure.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
1 cup (180g) semisweet chocolate chips: For extra chocolatey goodness.

Essential Tools for Success

Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
Whisk: To mix and incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
Rubber spatula: For folding in chocolate chips and scraping the bowl clean.
9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for our brownie batter.
Parchment paper: For easy removal and cleanup.
Oven thermometer: Ensures correct baking temperature for perfect brownies.

Step-by-Step: Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly set.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift your brownies out once they’re baked.

Step 3: Bloom the Cocoa

In a medium bowl, combine the Dutch-processed cocoa and boiling water. Whisk until smooth. This process enhances the flavor of the cocoa, making your brownies even more delicious.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a separate bowl, combine the finely chopped unsweetened chocolate and melted butter. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

To the bowl with the melted chocolate and butter, add the vegetable oil, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gradually add the cocoa mixture and the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Using a rubber spatula, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter thick and fudgy.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

Peppermint: Add crushed peppermint candies or extract for a festive twist.
Walnut: Stir in chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Espresso: Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright citrus note.

Testing Timeline

15 minutes: Prepare ingredients and preheat the oven.
20 minutes: Prepare the batter.
25-30 minutes: Bake the brownies.
10 minutes: Cool in the pan.
30 minutes: Cool completely before cutting.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies freeze wonderfully! Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Handy Q&A

Can I substitute the unsweetened chocolate?

Yes, you can use additional cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. Use 1/4 cup (25g) more cocoa powder and reduce the fat slightly to maintain the consistency.

What if I don’t have vegetable oil?

If you don’t have vegetable oil on hand, you can substitute it with melted coconut oil or canola oil for a similar result.

How do I store leftover brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in the same airtight container for up to a week.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free brownies!

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies, it’s time to serve them up! These brownies are perfect on their own, but you can also elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies will surely impress.

With their rich chocolate flavor and fudgy texture, these Better-Than-Box-Mix Brownies are destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor each delicious bite!