Fudgy chocolate brownies are rich, dense, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. With a crackly top and a moist, gooey center, these brownies are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on their own, they are perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Intensely chocolatey with a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Simple ingredients and easy to make in one bowl
- No mixer required—just mix, bake, and enjoy
- Customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel swirls
- Perfect for dessert, snacks, or special occasions
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted butter
- Dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Salt
- Espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt the Butter & Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt butter and dark chocolate together until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until glossy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Gently fold the ingredients together without overmixing.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): Stir in extra chocolate for an extra fudgy texture.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly gooey.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool completely before slicing for clean edges. Enjoy as is or with ice cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9-12 brownies
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Brownies: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
- Salted Caramel Brownies: Swirl caramel sauce into the batter before baking.
- Extra Dark Brownies: Use black cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Replace flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a Mexican chocolate variation.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual brownies and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a gooey texture.
FAQs
How do I get that signature crackly top?
Whisking the eggs and sugar until glossy before adding dry ingredients helps create a crackly top.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Dark chocolate gives the best fudgy texture, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter version.
How can I tell when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly soft when a toothpick is inserted.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate?
Using only cocoa powder will result in a different texture, so it’s best to use a combination for fudginess.
What’s the best way to cut clean brownie slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and dark chocolate.
Do I need to refrigerate brownies?
They can be stored at room temperature, but refrigeration keeps them fresh longer.
Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?
Too much flour or overbaking can lead to a cakier texture. Stick to the recipe measurements for the best results.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time to 35-40 minutes.
How can I make these brownies extra rich?
Use high-quality chocolate and add an extra egg yolk for richness.
Conclusion
These fudgy chocolate brownies are the ultimate indulgence—rich, gooey, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. With simple ingredients and an easy method, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to special desserts. Enjoy them warm, chilled, or with a scoop of ice cream for the perfect treat!
Print
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Description
These Fudgy Chocolate Brownies are ultra-rich, chewy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Made with simple ingredients, they have a crackly top and a gooey center—perfect for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until combined.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional).
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool & Serve: Let brownies cool before cutting into
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, underbake slightly and let cool completely.
- Add chopped nuts or caramel for a flavor twist.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American