Brownie Recipe From Scratch

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making brownies from scratch. The smell of chocolate wafting through your kitchen can instantly transport you to that comfort-food heaven we all crave. With this brownie recipe, you’ll craft fudgy, chocolaty treats that are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself). Made with simple ingredients that you likely have in your pantry, these brownies are sure to become a go-to favorite!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This brownie recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of granulated sugar and light brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor from the brown sugar. Using both granulated sugar and brown sugar helps achieve that delectable, chewy texture we all love in brownies. The use of unsweetened cocoa powder ensures a rich and intense chocolate flavor, while the melted unsalted butter adds a wonderful depth and moistness to each bite. Topped off with generous chocolate chunks, these brownies are sinfully delicious and easy to make, making them a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chunks, divided (see note)

How To Make Brownie Recipe From Scratch

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×9 inch baking pan with some butter or lining it with parchment paper will ensure your brownies come out easily.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Slowly add in the sifted cocoa powder and flour. Whisk them together to make sure there are no lumps and everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the two large eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until they are frothy. This will help introduce some air into the mixture, creating a lovely texture in the brownies.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold the two mixtures together using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are totally fine.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in about ¾ cup of the chocolate chunks into the brownie batter. Reserve the remaining ¼ cup for topping.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your greased or lined baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks on top for that extra chocolaty goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade brownies!

Expert Tips

• Make sure to sift the cocoa powder to remove any lumps, which will guarantee a smooth batter.
• Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to denser brownies than desired. Just mix until combined.
• If you prefer fudgier brownies, bake them for a shorter time.
• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix in dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for a tart contrast to the chocolate.
• Incorporate peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a delightful mint brownie experience.
• Top with a drizzle of chocolate glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftover brownies, allow them to cool completely. Place the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them, which will extend their life to about a week. For even longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of chocolate in this brownie recipe?

Absolutely! You can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate instead of chocolate chunks, or even melt some chocolate and incorporate it into the batter for an ultra-rich flavor.

How can I tell when my brownies are done baking?

The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are perfect. If it comes out wet, they need more time.

What can I do if my brownies are too cakey?

If your brownies turned out cakey, it’s usually due to overmixing the batter or overbaking. Be sure to follow the instructions and check for doneness early to prevent this in the future.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based butter substitute. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chunks to maintain the vegan aspect.

Conclusion

This brownie recipe from scratch is an indulgent treat that will satisfy your chocolate cravings and impress your family and friends. With simple, high-quality ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll create brownies that boast a rich, fudgy texture and an irresistible chocolate flavor. Try this recipe and bring a touch of homemade joy to your kitchen. Happy baking!