Description
These classic Cocoa Powder Brownies are rich, fudgy, and deliciously chocolatey with a perfect balance of sweetness. Made with melted butter and unsweetened cocoa powder, they feature a tender crumb enhanced by chocolate chips and crunchy nuts for added texture. This easy-to-make recipe yields nine generous servings, ideal for an indulgent dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
- Incorporate chocolate chips and nuts: Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks and the chopped nuts evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour batter into pan: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into 9 equal squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure not to overbake to keep brownies fudgy; test doneness with a toothpick.
- You can substitute the nuts with your favorite variety or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Using high-quality cocoa powder will enhance the chocolate flavor significantly.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For extra richness, drizzle melted chocolate over the top once cooled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
