Scratch Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with deep cocoa flavor and a tender crumb, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings and enjoyed by both casual bakers and dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend melted butter or oleo, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl.
- Add eggs and beat well with a spoon.
- Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt separately.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder. You can also substitute half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to avoid tough brownies. If you like nuts, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance texture, similar to options in some vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own but can be elevated by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also pair beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, like the Frozen Fruit Salad(From The Kitchen Of Carolyn Norman). For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream.
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. To reheat, simply pop a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes, ensuring the center remains fudgy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scratch Brownies contains roughly 256 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (14% of the Daily Value). 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 a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a different texture. However, keep in mind that this may alter the density and moisture of the brownies, so adjustments in baking time may be necessary.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out wet with batter, they need a few more minutes. Avoid overbaking for the best fudgy texture.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide a delightful texture. Fold in about 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the pan for extra gooeyness.
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).