Brownies with No Cocoa Powder

Brownies with no cocoa powder are rich, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey—thanks to melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder. These brownies are gooey in the center with chewy edges and a glossy, crackly top, just like the best bakery-style version. They’re perfect for when you’re out of cocoa but still craving a deeply satisfying chocolate dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are made entirely with real chocolate, giving them a deep, bold flavor and dense, fudgy texture. Using melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder adds richness, moisture, and a luxurious mouthfeel. They’re easy to whip up in one bowl and require no mixer. Whether you serve them warm with ice cream or cooled straight from the pan, they’re a guaranteed hit.

ingredients

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

• Unsweetened or semi-sweet baking chocolate (or dark chocolate bars)
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (optional, for chewiness)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, sea salt

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and butter together until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. Whisk in sugar and brown sugar until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gently fold in flour and salt until just combined—do not overmix.
6. Fold in optional chocolate chips or nuts, if using.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
9. Cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

Serves: 9–12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: approx. 1 hour

Variations

• Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a layered flavor.
• Add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella before baking.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for contrast.
• Mix in espresso powder to intensify the chocolate.
• Make them gluten-free with a 1:1 GF flour blend.

storage/reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For that just-baked texture, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. You can also freeze brownies for up to 2 months—wrap individually and thaw at room temp.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of baking chocolate?

Yes, use high-quality chocolate chips or chopped bars. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best.

What’s the difference between cocoa-based and chocolate-based brownies?

Brownies made with melted chocolate are richer and fudgier, while cocoa-based ones are more cake-like or chewy.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

No tempering is required—just melt with butter until smooth and let it cool slightly before mixing with eggs.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but not too much or it will affect the texture. Try cutting ¼ cup at most.

How do I know when they’re done?

Insert a toothpick—if it comes out with moist crumbs (not raw batter), they’re ready. Don’t overbake!

Can I add frosting?

Yes, but these brownies are rich on their own. A simple chocolate ganache or dusting of powdered sugar works well.

What kind of chocolate should I use?

Use baking chocolate bars or high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time to 35–40 minutes.

Are these brownies very sweet?

They’re rich but not overly sweet, especially if you use dark chocolate and balance with a pinch of salt.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and plant-based butter alternatives.

Conclusion

Brownies with no cocoa powder are proof that you don’t need a pantry full of ingredients to create an irresistible dessert. With real chocolate as the star, these brownies are ultra-fudgy, rich, and perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving. Whether for a gathering or just a late-night treat, this simple recipe delivers pure chocolate bliss in every bite.

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