Best Homemade Brownies Recipe

These Best Homemade Brownies are rich, fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey with a shiny, crackly top and a soft, gooey center. Made from scratch with simple pantry ingredients, these brownies strike the perfect balance between chewy and fudgy. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family dessert, or just a sweet craving, this easy recipe will become your go-to for the ultimate chocolate treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and fudgy – Perfectly gooey in the center with crisp edges.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and no special equipment needed.
• Intense chocolate flavor – Made with real cocoa powder and melted chocolate.
• Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or swirls of caramel for extra indulgence.
• Better than boxed mix – You’ll never go back after trying these from-scratch brownies!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar (for extra moisture and depth of flavor)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (high-quality for richer flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter.
2. Mix the wet ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
   • Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Add dry ingredients:
   • Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Fold in the chocolate chips:
   • Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
5. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool and serve:
   • Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges.
   • Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 brownies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Fudgy Brownies: Add an extra ¼ cup of melted chocolate to the batter.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl before baking.
• Salted Caramel Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before baking and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
• Mocha Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a coffee-chocolate flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract and top with crushed peppermint candies.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm brownies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for an extra gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I make brownies with a shiny, crackly top?

Whisking the sugar into the melted butter thoroughly and mixing the eggs until fully incorporated helps create the signature shiny top.

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?

Yes, but it will result in a slightly different flavor—richer and smoother compared to natural cocoa powder.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the brownies are ready.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but reducing the sugar may affect the texture and chewiness of the brownies.

What’s the best type of chocolate to use?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the best flavor. Chocolate chips or baking chocolate both work well.

How do I cut brownies cleanly?

Cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat edges.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Why did my brownies turn out dry?

Overbaking is the most common reason—check for doneness early and remove from the oven when a few crumbs stick to the toothpick.

Can I add fruit to these brownies?

Yes, dried fruits like cranberries or cherries add a sweet-tart contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

Are these brownies freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

These Best Homemade Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite mix-ins, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to indulgent desserts. Once you try this from-scratch recipe, you’ll never go back to boxed brownies again!

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