Step into chocolate heaven with these Ultimate Chocolate Brownies, designed to deliver the richest, most indulgent chocolate experience. Featuring a combination of melted dark chocolate and butter, these brownies are dense, fudgy, and perfect for any chocolate enthusiast. This recipe simplifies the baking process, ensuring that even beginners can create delicious treats that taste professionally made.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Deep Chocolate Flavor: The use of dark chocolate enriches these brownies with a profound chocolate taste that’s both bold and satisfying.
- Fudgy Texture: The perfect ratio of flour to chocolate keeps these brownies moist and fudgy, with just the right amount of chewiness.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, these brownies are easy to whip up on a whim.
- Versatile and Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel to elevate them to your personal preference.
Ingredients:
- Melted butter (for greasing)
- 200 g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100 g unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 50 g brown sugar
- 70 g all-purpose flour
- 30 g cocoa powder
Ingredient Tips:
- Chocolate: Choose a high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and melting properties. A cocoa content of 60-70% is ideal for that deep, rich taste.
- Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe, balancing the sweetness.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Pan
- Brush the inside of an 8-inch square baking pan with melted butter. Line the pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy removal of the brownies once baked.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugars
- In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. For a more refined texture, place the bowl over a pot of boiling water and continue to mix until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Step 4: Combine Chocolate with Egg Mixture
- Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Fold into the chocolate mixture gently to avoid deflating the mixture, until no dry streaks remain.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for about 25 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting out using the overhanging parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.
Storage Options:
- Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate: For a firmer texture, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Freeze brownies for up to 3 months in airtight containers. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips:
- For a special touch, sprinkle sea salt over the brownies before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a perfect snack or dessert.
These Ultimate Chocolate Brownies are not only a treat to eat but also a joy to make, bringing simplicity and decadence into your kitchen with each batch. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness in every bite!