Are you craving a decadent dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This brownie recipe, featuring the rich and intense flavor of Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa, delivers fudgy perfection without the fuss. It's the perfect homemade treat for satisfying your chocolate cravings, whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, transforming a simple weeknight into something special.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This step ensures your brownies release easily and have those lovely crisp edges.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This creates a smooth and luscious base for your brownies.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
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Optional Chocolate Chips: If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips.
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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 attached. Don't overbake; slightly underbaked brownies will be extra fudgy!
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows them to set properly and prevents them from crumbling.
Tips for Brownie Success:
- Quality Cocoa: Using high-quality cocoa powder like Ghirardelli significantly impacts the flavor of your brownies. The unsweetened variety provides a rich, intense chocolate taste without added sugar.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Cooling Time: Patience is key! Allowing the brownies to cool completely ensures they set properly and are easier to cut.
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Nutty Brownies: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Swirled Brownies: Create a beautiful swirl by using half the batter plain and adding chocolate chips or peanut butter to the other half before layering them in the pan.
- Espresso Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for an intense coffee flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on variations and serving size)
This delicious brownie recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort. It’s a healthy alternative to store-bought treats, offering a homemade indulgence that’s sure to impress. Enjoy these deeply delicious brownies as a delightful dessert or a perfect addition to your healthy meals. They're a fantastic addition to any recipe collection, offering a simple yet sophisticated homemade treat for any occasion. They are truly amongst the best recipes for both easy and delicious dishes.