Are you craving a rich, fudgy brownie but intimidated by complicated recipes? Look no further! This easy brownie recipe using sweetened condensed milk is your ticket to homemade deliciousness without the fuss. It's a perfect recipe for quick dinner ideas, satisfying a sweet tooth, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Get ready to experience the ultimate chocolate indulgence – these brownies are unbelievably moist and intensely chocolatey, and they’re surprisingly simple to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your brownies release easily and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 4: Chocolate Chips (Optional but Encouraged!)
Stir in the chocolate chips, if using. The extra chocolate adds a delightful textural element and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Overbaking will result in dry brownies, so keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. Enjoy your delicious homemade brownies!
Tips for Brownie Perfection:
- Use good quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your brownies will depend heavily on the cocoa powder you choose. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give you a richer, darker brownie.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. Every oven is different, so it's important to monitor your brownies closely.
- Cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting prevents them from crumbling.
Variations:
- Nutty Brownies: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Swirled Brownies: Make half the batter with peanut butter instead of butter for a delicious swirl effect.
- Fudge Brownies: Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for an even richer, fudgier brownie.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy brownie recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike. It's a delicious treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!