Made From Scratch Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with deep cocoa flavor and crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends or family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt cocoa, oil, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat; stir in sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Beat vigorously until well combined.
- Stir in flour, salt, and walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a well-buttered 8x8-inch square pan.
- Bake in a preheated 325°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra fudgy texture, consider using half brown sugar and half white sugar. If you don't have walnuts, try substituting with pecans or even chocolate chips for a richer flavor. When mixing in the eggs, be sure they are at room temperature to ensure even blending. This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover cocoa from other desserts, like a Pineapple Sundae Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the brownies into squares and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a delightful twist, try serving alongside a Speedy Salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, microwave individual servings for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Made From Scratch Brownies contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of fat instead of butter and oil?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative to make these brownies dairy-free. Just ensure the substitute has a similar melting point to achieve the right consistency in the batter.
What can I do if I don't have cocoa powder?
If you're out of cocoa powder, you can use unsweetened chocolate. Melt 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate and reduce the amount of oil or butter in the recipe by 1 tablespoon to maintain the correct texture.
How can I tell 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 firm up as they cool.
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).