Description

These ultra-fudgy one-bowl brownies deliver dense, chewy texture with a signature crackly, shiny top. Made with simple pantry staples and minimal equipment, this recipe is reliable, delicious, and perfect for any chocolate craving.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¾ cup (60g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on the long sides, and spray with non-stick spray.
Melt the butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between bursts, until fully melted. Let it cool for 5 minutes so it is warm but not hot.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and airy.
Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until just combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled.
Add the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
If using, fold in the chocolate chips. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when the top is crackly and shiny, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging to it.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set before lifting them out using the parchment handles and slicing into squares.

Notes

Room temperature eggs are crucial for proper emulsification. Whisking the eggs and sugar vigorously is the key to achieving the crackly top. Do not overbake; the toothpick should have moist crumbs, not wet batter. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 120
Fat: 9
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 24
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: brownies, one-bowl brownies, fudgy brownies, crackly top, easy dessert, chocolate brownies, homemade brownies