Introduction
These fudgy brownies are the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream. With a deep chocolate flavor, a crackly top, and a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center, they strike the perfect balance between chewy and indulgent. Made with simple ingredients and a few baking tricks, they feel luxury-worthy but are totally approachable.
Why You’ll Love These Brownies
- Deep chocolate intensity: Made with both cocoa powder and melted chocolate for maximum richness.
- Perfect texture: Crisp top, fudgy interior — exactly how brownies should be.
- Simple ingredients: Butter, chocolate, sugar, eggs, flour, and cocoa — nothing too fancy.
- Highly adaptable: Stir in nuts, chocolate chunks, or espresso for extra depth.
- Great for sharing: Perfect for a bake sale, family dessert, or indulgent treat.
Ingredients (Makes about 16 squares)
- Butter, unsalted (melted)
- Vegetable oil (a little helps with fudginess)
- Granulated sugar
- Light brown sugar
- High-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Eggs (large)
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch (optional, for extra chew)
- Salt
- Instant espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan (8×8 or 9×9) with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal. - Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter, oil, and chopped chocolate together gently (either in the microwave or over a double boiler) until smooth. Let it cool slightly but not harden. - Mix in Sugars and Flavor
Stir in both the granulated and brown sugars until well combined. Add vanilla extract and (if using) espresso powder, stirring to incorporate. - Add the Eggs
Whisk in the eggs (and egg yolk if using) one at a time until the mixture is glossy and fully emulsified. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch (if using), and salt. Slowly fold this into the chocolate mixture, mixing just until no streaks remain — be careful not to overmix. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles a bit when gently shaken. The fudgier finish comes from slight under-baking. - Cool & Set
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. As they cool, the center will firm up and become ultra fudgy. - Slice & Serve
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife. Serve plain, with ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips & Tricks
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t over-bake — fudgy brownies are meant to feel a little underdone in the center.
- Let your brownies cool completely for clean slices and better texture.
- For added richness, fold in chopped chocolate or nuts before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer.
Variations
- Nutty brownie: Fold in pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
- Espresso brownie: Increase the espresso powder for a mocha twist.
- Chunk-laden: Add white chocolate chips or chunks to the batter.
- Salted caramel swirl: Before baking, swirl in some salted caramel sauce.
- Gluten-free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend and adjust accordingly.
Final Thoughts
These fudgy brownies truly live up to their name. With rich chocolate flavor, a chewy, gooey center, and a glossy, crackled top, they offer an experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for sharing with friends, serving at a party, or simply treating yourself to a slice (or two).