Are you ready to bake the fudgiest, most intensely chocolatey brownies you've ever tasted? Forget boxed mixes and underwhelming results – this recipe, inspired by the meticulous methods of Cook's Illustrated, will transport you to brownie heaven. It's surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a rich, intensely chocolatey treat that's perfect for sharing (or not!). This recipe offers a delicious blend of easy recipes and homemade cooking, resulting in one of the best recipes you'll ever try. It's a quick dinner dessert or a perfect addition to any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt and Combine
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This is crucial for easy removal and prevents sticking. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate together, stirring occasionally until smooth. This is a key step – low and slow prevents burning.
Step 2: Sugar and Salt
Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat and stir in the sugar and salt until fully combined. This ensures even sweetness throughout your brownies.
Step 3: Eggs and Vanilla
Whisk in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Don't overmix – a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Flour and Cocoa
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing! Overmixing leads to tough brownies.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don't overbake! Slightly underbaked brownies are fudgier.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Brownies:
- Use good quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the brownies!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough brownies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let them cool completely: This prevents crumbling and makes for easier cutting.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your brownies and adjust baking time as needed. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Swirl in peanut butter: Add a tablespoon or two of peanut butter to the batter for a peanut butter brownie twist.
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate for one 8x8 brownie (cut into 16 squares) is approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 10-15g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively healthy option compared to store-bought brownies. Enjoy these amazing homemade brownies! They are perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving, whether you're looking for a quick dessert, a special treat, or simply a delicious homemade indulgence. They're sure to become a family favorite!