Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, and these Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies take that pleasure to a whole new level. Rich and moist, with a dense chocolate flavor, they are the perfect treat for those chocolate cravings that sneak up unexpectedly. The deep, fudgy texture melts in your mouth, while the bittersweet chocolate gives them a luxurious taste that outshines any store-bought option. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply wanting to treat yourself, this recipe will have you covered.
Table of Contents
I remember the first time I made these brownies. It was a rainy afternoon, and the mood in the kitchen was cozy, almost magical. As the chocolate melted slowly on the stove, the kitchen filled with a warm, inviting aroma. Those moments are what inspire a love for baking—cocooned in the smell of chocolate, feeling the anticipation of cutting into a pan of warm, gooey brownies. It’s more than just a treat; it’s an experience. I can’t wait for you to enjoy these as much as I do!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 5 minutes of prep and a 45-minute bake time, you can have a batch of delicious brownies ready before you know it.
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is packed with a rich chocolate flavor that’s impossible to resist, thanks to the bittersweet chocolate blend.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These brownies come out of the oven looking fabulous and taste even better—perfect for sharing or showcasing at any gathering.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for parties, coffee breaks, or a late-night snack; these brownies are a versatile dessert that fits any occasion.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Customizable for various preferences; you can easily adjust ingredients for gluten-free or dairy-free versions with simple swaps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier melting and mixing.
- 8 oz. bittersweet chocolate: I recommend Ghirardelli 60% cacao baking chips for their intense flavor. Feel free to use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a little sweetness.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the batter and gives a lovely texture. Brown sugar can be substituted for a more caramel-like taste.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- 5 large eggs: Eggs contribute to the structure and fudgy texture of the brownies. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: This intensifies the chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a smoother taste.
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: Balances the wet ingredients for the right brownie consistency. For gluten-free, you can substitute with almond flour.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: This brings out the sweetness of the brownies, making the chocolate flavor pop.
How to Make Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing and flouring a 13×9 inch baking pan is essential to prevent sticking.
Melt chocolate and butter: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter and 8 oz. of bittersweet chocolate. Melt them together over low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and combined. Once melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix sugar and eggs: After the chocolate mixture has cooled down, whisk in 2 cups of sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well-combined. Next, crack in 5 large eggs, adding them one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. You’ll want the mixture to be silky and smooth.
Blend dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these separately ensures no lumps, leading to a smooth batter.
Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture, whisking gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few small lumps.
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that fudgy texture.
Cool and cut: Once baked, remove your brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan. When they’re cool enough to handle, cut them into squares and prepare for a delightful chocolate experience!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap the brownies tightly using plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh their gooey texture.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour mixture; this can make your brownies tough instead of fudgy.
- Always use room temperature eggs; they incorporate better into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
- For extra chocolatey brownies, fold in chocolate chips or nuts before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Keep an eye on the brownies near the end of the baking time; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly.
- Don’t hesitate to play with flavors! Add a pinch of espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor or swirl in some peanut butter for a fun twist.
These brownies are not just a recipe; they are a moment of bliss in your day. Rich, chocolatey, and oh-so-fudgy, they are sure to please everyone lucky enough to take a bite. Don’t hesitate to indulge a little, and remember, baking is all about experimenting—so feel free to add your twists. Enjoy the delightful process of making these incredible treats!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use different chocolate types?
Absolutely! You can experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate. Depending on the chocolate’s sweetness level, you may want to adjust the sugar.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for fudgy brownies. If it comes out clean, you may have overbaked them, resulting in a cakey texture.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Be sure to check ingredient labels for any hidden gluten.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a gooey treat!
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📖 Recipe Card
Brownies | Fudgy Dark Chocolate Brownies
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These fudgy dark chocolate brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream. With a rich flavor, simple preparation and key ingredients like bittersweet chocolate and eggs, they’re ideal for dessert or any sweet craving. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz. bittersweet chocolate, (i used ghirardelli 60% cacao baking chips)
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 13×9 inch baking pan and set it aside.
- In a 3-quart saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and bittersweet chocolate, stirring until it's smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Once the chocolate mixture has cooled, whisk in the sugar and vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Combine this flour mixture with the chocolate mixture and whisk thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-35 minutes. Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
For extra richness, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
These brownies can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
