Fudgy Chocolate Brownies

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Intensity: Rich, decadent, intensely chocolatey

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, fudgy chocolate brownie — dense, moist, and deeply chocolatey. This recipe delivers exactly that: brownies that are indulgent, chewy, and impossibly rich without being overly sweet. Perfect for a dessert, snack, or a treat to impress friends and family, these brownies are a classic for a reason.

The secret to achieving the perfect fudgy texture lies in balancing butter, chocolate, and eggs. This recipe uses high-quality dark chocolate and a touch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. Optional add-ins like chocolate chunks, nuts, or a swirl of caramel elevate the brownies further, but even plain, they’re simply irresistible.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 8 ounces high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup chocolate chunks or chopped nuts (optional)

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Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan

• Medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk and rubber spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Cooling rack

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan (5 minutes)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.

Tip: Using parchment paper ensures the brownies lift out easily and prevents sticking.

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Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter (5 minutes)

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together, stirring constantly until smooth. Alternatively, melt in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted.

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly, about 2 minutes.

Tip: Avoid overheating chocolate, as it can seize and become grainy.

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Step 3: Mix Sugar and Eggs (5 minutes)

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and brown sugar with the slightly cooled chocolate-butter mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and espresso powder if using.

Tip: Adding eggs one at a time ensures a smooth, glossy batter.

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Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients (3 minutes)

Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet chocolate mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix — overmixing can lead to cakier brownies.

Fold in chocolate chunks or nuts if desired.

Tip: The batter should be thick, glossy, and slightly shiny.

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Step 5: Bake the Brownies (25–30 minutes)

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Start checking at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. For fudgy brownies, the toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.

Tip: Slightly underbaking is key to achieving the classic fudgy texture.

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Step 6: Cool and Slice (10 minutes)

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper overhang. Cool completely on a wire rack if you prefer neat slices.

Slice into 12 squares for rich, satisfying portions.

Tip: For cleaner edges, refrigerate the cooled brownies for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for presentation.

• Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for contrast to the rich chocolate.

• Serve alongside coffee, hot chocolate, or milk for a classic pairing.

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Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and slice.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 12 servings)

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on chocolate brands and portion size.

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Flavor and Texture Intensity

• Flavor intensity: Deep, rich chocolate flavor with subtle hints of espresso.

• Texture intensity: Fudgy, chewy interior with a slightly crisp top layer.

• Effort intensity: Easy — minimal prep and quick bake.

• Time intensity: About 45 minutes from start to finish.

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Chef’s Tips and Variations

• Extra Fudgy: Replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder for denser brownies.

• Chewy Texture: Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar.

• Nutty Variation: Fold in walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch.

• Swirl Variation: Add caramel, peanut butter, or cream cheese swirls before baking.

• Intense Chocolate: Use a mix of dark chocolate and semisweet chocolate for deeper flavor.

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Common Questions

Can I make brownies ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and bake, then store in an airtight container. They stay moist for several days and even taste better the next day as flavors meld.

How do I get a shiny, crackly top?
Whisking the sugar into the melted chocolate thoroughly and beating the eggs properly helps create a glossy crust.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Can I bake in a different pan size?
Yes. For a 9×9-inch pan, baking time is similar, but check a few minutes earlier. For a larger pan, reduce thickness to maintain fudginess.

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Final Thoughts

These Fudgy Chocolate Brownies are an indulgent, easy-to-make dessert that satisfies any chocolate craving. They combine a rich, chocolatey interior with a slightly crisp top, creating the perfect balance of textures. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with ice cream, or swirled with caramel or peanut butter, these brownies are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and absolutely delicious.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a cozy night at home, these brownies are simple yet decadent. They are quick to prepare, forgiving for beginners, and always deliver that classic, fudgy chocolate experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.