Katherine Hepburn Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with deep chocolate flavor and crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for chocolate lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the unsweetened chocolate and butter over low heat in a heavy saucepan.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
- Quickly stir in the chopped walnuts, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Spread the batter evenly in a well-greased 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack.
- Cut into 12 pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of unsweetened. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with chocolate chips. Make sure to mix the batter quickly to maintain a fudgy texture; overmixing can lead to a cakey brownie. To enhance the chocolate flavor, add a pinch of espresso powder if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own but can be elevated by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel. For a fun twist, serve alongside Easy Apple Fritters for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Katherine Hepburn Brownies contains roughly 226 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder for unsweetened chocolate. Use 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to replace each square of chocolate. This will maintain the moisture and richness in your brownies.
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, they are ready. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked, resulting in a drier texture.
Can I freeze the brownies for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
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).