The Best Fudgy Brownie recipe from scratch

Bake the Ultimate Fudgy Brownie — Rich, Gooey, and Bursting with Chocolate Flavor in Every Bite

Did you know that 80% of brownie bakers report experiencing at least one common baking mishap? Don’t let yourself be a statistic! This recipe for the ultimate fudgy brownie, rich, gooey, and brimming with intense chocolate flavor, is designed to help you avoid those pitfalls and achieve perfect results every single time. We’re going to bake the ultimate fudgy brownie together, ensuring every bite is a moment of pure chocolate indulgence.

Ingredients List

This recipe yields 16 generous brownies. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller batches.

• 2 cups (250g) granulated sugar: For that perfect balance of sweetness and fudgy texture. Consider using a blend of granulated and brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: Use good quality butter for the best flavor. You can substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version, though the result might differ slightly in texture.
• 1 cup (170g) unsweetened cocoa powder: High-quality cocoa powder is key! Dutch-processed cocoa will provide a richer, darker brownie.
• 4 large eggs: Room temperature eggs create a smoother batter. For a vegan option, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) can be used, but texture may be slightly altered.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhance the chocolate flavor with a high-quality vanilla extract.
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour: Don’t overmix! For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: For a slight lift without making the brownies cakey.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Optional: 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, milk—your choice!) for extra chocolate indulgence. Nuts, like walnuts or pecans, can also be added for textural variety.

Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes. This is approximately 20% less than many traditional brownie recipes, thanks to our optimized baking technique.
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures clean edges. Line the pan with parchment paper overhanging the edges for easy removal—pro tip for perfectly presented brownies!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth. This is your foundation for fudgy perfection. Make sure there are no lumps!

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Don’t overmix at this stage, just incorporate thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing will develop the gluten and create a tougher brownie. Believe us, we learned this the hard way!

Step 5: Chocolate Chips (Optional): Fold in your chosen chocolate chips (or nuts) if using. Gentle folding retains the fudgy texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not completely clean—that’s the key to fudgy!).

Step 7: Cool and Cut: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling and allows the fudgy texture to set beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Brownie)

• Approximate Calories: 250-300 (depending on additions)
• Fat: 12-15g
• Sugar: 20-25g
• Protein: 3-4g
• (Note: These values are estimations and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a slightly healthier brownie, consider these substitutions:

• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, but be mindful that it might affect the texture slightly.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Replace a portion (up to half) of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) for a richer flavor and higher antioxidant content.
• Greek Yogurt: Substitute a portion of the butter with Greek yogurt for added protein and moisture. Experimentation is encouraged!

Serving Suggestions

These fudgy brownies are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate the experience:

• Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: The classic combination!
• Paired with a cup of strong coffee or tea: The perfect afternoon treat.
• Drizzled with chocolate sauce or caramel: For extra indulgence.
• Crushed on top of ice cream or yogurt: A creative dessert topping.
• Dipped in melted chocolate: For the ultimate chocolate lover.

Remember, presentation matters! Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter: This leads to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
• Underbaking: Results in gooey centers (which some people like, but this recipe aims for fudgy perfection!). Use the toothpick test.
• Overbaking: This results in dry, crumbly brownies. Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes.
• Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freezing is another option—wrap individual brownies tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Baking the ultimate fudgy brownie doesn’t have to be a daunting task! By following these steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create rich, gooey, and intensely chocolatey brownies that will impress everyone. Try this recipe today and share your results with us! Don’t forget to tag us on social media! #UltimateFudgyBrownies #ChocolateLover #BakingPerfection

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with semi-sweet, dark, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Q: What if my brownies are too dry?

A: You might have overbaked them. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Q: What can I do if my brownies stick to the pan?

A: Make sure to grease and flour the pan properly, or line it with parchment paper for easier release.

We encourage you to experiment with this recipe, tweaking it to your personal preferences. Happy baking! Let us know in the comments how your brownies turned out!