Brownies Recipe: Easy, Fudgy, and Homemade Chocolate Treat

Introduction

Warm, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey, brownies have long been the ultimate comfort dessert. From their crisp, crackly top to the dense, fudgy center, they deliver a perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, celebrating a milestone, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, homemade brownies never disappoint.

Unlike store-bought mixes, which often fall flat in both taste and texture, baking brownies from scratch gives you full control over ingredients, sweetness, and even the level of chewiness. Plus, the process itself is incredibly satisfying — stirring together melted chocolate, butter, and sugar is one of those kitchen rituals that feels therapeutic and rewarding.

The real magic of brownies lies in their versatility. Some people like them ultra-fudgy, while others prefer a slightly cakier crumb. You can load them with walnuts, swirl in cream cheese, or spike the batter with espresso for an adult twist. No matter how you make them, one thing is certain — a good brownie recipe belongs in every home baker’s repertoire.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make brownies that come out perfect every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients, techniques, and customizations that will take your brownies from good to unforgettable.

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Ingredients Needed

To make classic fudgy brownies, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples. Below is a detailed list of ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts per serving portion.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Unsalted butter	1 cup (226g)	1628
Granulated sugar	1 ¼ cups (250g)	970
Brown sugar	½ cup (100g)	380
Eggs	3 large	210
Vanilla extract	2 tsp	25
All-purpose flour	¾ cup (95g)	340
Unsweetened cocoa powder	¾ cup (65g)	130
Salt	½ tsp	0
Baking powder	¼ tsp	1
Semi-sweet chocolate	1 cup (175g)	875

Total Estimated Calories (entire batch): ~4559
Calories per serving (based on 16 squares): ~285

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will ensure your brownies don’t stick and helps with even baking.

2. Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate together. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix in Sugars and Eggs

Whisk in the granulated and brown sugar while the mixture is still warm but not hot. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air and gives a beautiful shine and crackly top to your brownies.

4. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 28–32 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

6. Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them firm up and develop that dense, chewy texture everyone loves.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Add-ins: Stir in a cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips before baking for added texture and richness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Frosting options: Top with a simple chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent twist.
• Marbling: Swirl in peanut butter or caramel sauce before baking for a stunning and flavorful presentation.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix for a celiac-friendly treat.

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Nutritional Information

Each brownie square (based on 16 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 285
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Keep in mind these values can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and measurements used.

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Serving Suggestions

Brownies are delicious straight from the pan, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even more:

• With ice cream: A warm brownie served with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream is a timeless dessert.
• With fresh fruit: Add a few berries or sliced bananas on the side for a refreshing contrast.
• For brunch or snacks: Cut into small squares and serve on a platter with coffee or tea.
• Layered dessert: Use brownies as a base for a trifle or parfait with whipped cream and fruit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store homemade brownies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Why are my brownies dry?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Make sure to check them early and pull them out once the center is just set.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double everything and use a 9×13-inch pan. Bake time may increase by 5–10 minutes.

How do I get clean cuts?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting.

What’s the best cocoa powder to use?
Unsweetened natural cocoa works best for deep chocolate flavor, but Dutch-processed cocoa can also be used for a smoother, less acidic taste.

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Conclusion

Making brownies from scratch is more than just following a recipe — it’s about creating something that brings people together. From that first chocolaty bite to the satisfied smiles around the table, homemade brownies offer comfort and joy in their simplest form.