Hershey'S Best Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with a deep cocoa flavor and a tender crumb, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings. Their moist texture and nutty crunch make them a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a decadent treat at home, suited for both casual snacking and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, place the butter.
- Microwave at high (100%) for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes, or until melted.
- Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well with a wooden spoon after each addition.
- Add cocoa powder; beat until well blended.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; beat well.
- Stir in nuts, if desired.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until brownies just begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. If you prefer a fudgier brownie, reduce baking time slightly. You can substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. If you're out of eggs, a flaxseed meal substitute may work well. This recipe is a classic among American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For an extra special dessert, consider serving alongside Instant Boiled Custard for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey texture, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hershey'S Best Brownies contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 unsweetened applesauce instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute unsweetened applesauce for butter to create a healthier version of these brownies. Use a 1:1 ratio, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, resulting in a less fudgy brownie.
What can I add to make these brownies more decadent?
To enhance the flavors, consider adding chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. These additions will elevate your brownies and make them even more indulgent.
How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
Brownies are done when the edges begin to pull away from the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.
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).