Craving a decadent chocolate treat but short on time and ingredients? Look no further! This unbelievably easy 3-ingredient brownies recipe delivers rich, fudgy perfection with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick dessert, a last-minute treat for guests, or satisfying that sudden chocolate craving, these brownies are a game-changer for busy cooks and baking novices alike. Get ready to impress yourself (and everyone else!) with this simple yet stunningly delicious recipe.
Ingredients: You'll only need three!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
That's it! Seriously. Three simple ingredients are all you need to create these amazing brownies.
Instructions: A Baking Beginner's Dream
Step 1: Melting Magic: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overheat; you want a smooth, not boiling, mixture.
Step 2: Baking Bliss: Pour the batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan. Spread evenly.
Step 3: Oven Time: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached – don't overbake! Overbaked brownies will be dry.
Step 4: Cooling Down: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for neater slices.
Tips for Brownie Perfection:
- Unsalted Butter is Key: Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the sweetness and saltiness of your brownies.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Stir until just combined.
- Cooling is Crucial: Patience is key here! Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for the best texture.
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations to Spice Things Up:
- Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey boost.
- Espresso Powder: Add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 16 squares):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
This easy 3-ingredient brownies recipe is the perfect answer for those quick dessert cravings. It's a fantastic option for healthy meals when you need a little indulgence, and it's one of the best recipes for satisfying a sweet tooth without a lot of fuss. Enjoy!