Basic Brownies
Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies, made with unsweetened chocolate and a perfect balance of sugars. Their dense texture and deep chocolate flavor make them an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers, ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and butter over low heat.
- Add brown sugar and stir to dissolve.
- Let cool.
- Beat granulated sugar and eggs together.
- Add chocolate mixture, flour, baking powder, and vanilla, stirring just enough to mix.
- Pour into greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake in preheated oven at 325° for about 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the brownies are fudgy, avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. If you're out of unsweetened chocolate, you can substitute with cocoa powder, using 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for every ounce of chocolate. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an added twist, try them alongside Pumpkin Custard for a contrasting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warm. This will help restore their fudgy texture without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Brownies contains roughly 327 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sugar in this brownie recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar. For instance, using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar will give a caramel-like flavor. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making the brownies a bit denser.
What can I add to the brownies for extra flavor?
You can add a variety of ingredients to enhance the flavor. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, chocolate chips, or even a teaspoon of peppermint extract can be mixed into the batter for added richness and texture.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are ready. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).