Fudgy Chocolate Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fudgy Chocolate Brownies are rich, dense, and irresistibly chocolaty with a moist center and crackly top. Perfect for chocolate lovers, these homemade brownies deliver deep cocoa flavor and chewy texture in every bite. Whether served plain, with ice cream, or dusted with powdered sugar, they’re an easy dessert classic you’ll want to make again and again.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar (optional, for extra chewiness)
eggs
vanilla extract
unsweetened cocoa powder
all-purpose flour
salt
chocolate chips or chunks (optional for extra fudginess)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Let it cool slightly.

Whisk in the granulated sugar (and brown sugar if using) until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Fold in chocolate chips or chunks if desired.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean, fudgy squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9–12 brownies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add walnuts, pecans, or peanut butter swirls for added texture.
Use espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Top with flaky sea salt before baking for a gourmet touch.
Mix in chopped candy bars or caramel bits for extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate for longer freshness (up to 7 days).
Freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I get that fudgy texture?
Use less flour, don’t overbake, and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Butter gives better flavor, but oil can work for a slightly different texture.

Are these brownies sweet or dark?
They’re balanced—rich with deep chocolate flavor. Adjust sugar to taste.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and increase bake time to 35–40 minutes.

Do I need baking powder or soda?
No leavening is used for classic fudgy texture.

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa?
Yes, it will result in a deeper chocolate color and flavor.

Why is my brownie center still soft?
That’s okay! It firms up as it cools. Don’t overbake if you want fudgy results.

Should I chill them before cutting?
Yes, for cleaner cuts and the perfect texture.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.

Conclusion

Fudgy Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate treat for when only rich, chewy, and intensely chocolaty will do. With easy steps and pantry staples, these brownies deliver bakery-quality results in your own kitchen—perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.

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