Are you craving a rich, fudgy brownie but short on time? This easy brownie recipe using sweetened condensed milk is your answer! Forget complicated measurements and lengthy baking times; this recipe delivers intensely chocolatey, melt-in-your-mouth brownies with minimal effort. It's the perfect dessert for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next gathering. This recipe is a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy balance of simple preparation and amazing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other desired mix-ins
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your brownies will release easily from the pan once baked.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. This creates a smooth base for your delicious brownies.
-
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to fully incorporate the eggs for a consistent batter.
-
Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
-
Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
-
Add Mix-ins (Optional): Stir in your choice of chocolate chips, nuts, or other desired mix-ins.
-
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Don't overbake! Slightly underbaked brownies are fudgier.
-
Cool & Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes them easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Brownies:
- Use good quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your brownies will be significantly impacted by the quality of cocoa powder you use. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will result in a richer, darker brownie.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes. Every oven is different, so adjust baking time as needed.
- Let them cool completely: This prevents crumbling and makes for neater slices.
Variations:
- Nutty Brownies: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Salted Caramel Brownies: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cooled brownies for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Espresso Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha-flavored twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on mix-ins)
This information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This easy brownie recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. These quick dinner dessert ideas are a great way to end any day! Enjoy!