Are you craving a rich, fudgy brownie that melts in your mouth? Look no further! This Hershey's Cocoa Brownie recipe delivers intensely chocolatey goodness with a surprisingly simple process. It's the perfect dessert for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or even a quick and delicious treat after a long day. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade brownie bliss! This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, making it a versatile addition to your collection of delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Hershey's unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your brownies release easily from the pan and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Beat until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure to mix thoroughly after each addition.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 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! Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Chocolate Chips (Optional)
Gradually add the flour to the batter, mixing until just combined. If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking 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 will be extra fudgy.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes them easier to cut neatly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Brownies:
- Use good quality cocoa powder: Hershey's unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for its rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes. Every oven is slightly different, so keep an eye on them.
- Let them cool completely: This allows the brownies to set and makes them easier to cut and serve.
Variations:
- Nutty Brownies: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Swirled Brownies: Make half the batter with a tablespoon or two of espresso powder for a mocha swirl.
- Peanut Butter Brownies: Stir in 1/2 cup peanut butter with the wet ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sugar: 20-25g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Hershey's Cocoa Brownie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of rich chocolate and fudgy texture makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking! This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire, providing a healthy balance of sweet indulgence and simple preparation. It's one of the best recipes for a satisfying and delicious dessert, perfect for any skill level.