Simple Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies with a deep cocoa flavor and crunchy nutty bits, perfect for chocolate lovers and easy to serve at any casual gathering or dessert occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter and then stir in the sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you don't have nuts, you can substitute with chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture. To ensure even baking, make sure to mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Also, check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
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. For a refreshing contrast, pair them with a Green Salad With Strawberries to balance the sweetness. They also make a great dessert after a hearty meal or alongside coffee for an afternoon treat.
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, place a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fudgy treat. You can also serve them cold for a firmer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Brownies contains roughly 369 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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 make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. The other ingredients should remain the same, ensuring that the brownies maintain their delicious flavor and fudgy consistency.
What should I do if my brownies are too dry?
If your brownies turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If you find yourself with dry brownies, you can serve them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle melted chocolate over the top to add moisture and richness.
Can I freeze brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
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).