Homemade Brownies

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about homemade brownies. The smell of rich cocoa filling the kitchen, the slightly crisp top layer cracking under the knife, and that dense, fudgy bite that melts in your mouth—it all brings me right back to my childhood kitchen. Over the years, I’ve baked countless batches trying to find the perfect texture and flavor, and I can confidently say, this is the one.

This brownie recipe is everything I want in a dessert: simple ingredients, easy prep, and a deep chocolate flavor that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re making a treat for friends, prepping a quick dessert for movie night, or simply need a chocolate fix, these brownies check every box.

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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Brownies Recipe

These brownies strike the perfect balance between fudgy and chewy with just the right amount of gooey chocolate chips in every bite. They’re quick to whip up with pantry staples and don’t require any fancy tools or mixers. Best of all, they’re customizable—so you can go classic or load them up with nuts or caramel swirls.

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What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use for Homemade Brownies?

This recipe works best with unsweetened cocoa powder for that rich chocolate foundation. I also fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips to give each bite some melty, indulgent pockets. If you prefer darker or even milk chocolate, feel free to switch it up. Quality does matter here, so use the best chocolate you can find.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re dairy-free, you can swap the butter for a good vegan alternative or even coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor. Want to make them gluten-free? A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well here. Not a fan of chocolate chips? Try chopped nuts, white chocolate chunks, or even swirls of peanut butter or dulce de leche.

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Ingredients for This Homemade Brownies Recipe

Unsalted Butter – The fat base that gives richness and moisture. Melting it helps create that dense, fudgy texture we’re after.

Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and structure. It also helps develop that signature crackly top.

Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of molasses depth and enhances the chewiness.

Eggs – These bind the ingredients together and give the brownies stability and structure.

Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – The main source of deep chocolate flavor. Use Dutch-processed for an even richer taste.

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure. Not too much though—just enough to hold things together without becoming cakey.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – For those gooey, melty chocolate pockets in every bite.

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Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter completely. Let it cool slightly before adding other ingredients so it doesn’t cook the eggs.

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Step 2: Mix in the Sugars

Add both granulated and brown sugar to the melted butter and whisk until well combined. This will help create a smooth, glossy base.

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Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

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Step 4: Sift in the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt directly into the wet mixture. This prevents clumping and ensures even mixing. Stir gently until just combined.

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Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Using a spatula, fold in the chocolate chips evenly. Don’t overmix—just enough to spread the chips throughout the batter.

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Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Smooth the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

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Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan—this helps them set and makes for clean slices. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

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How Long to Prepare the Homemade Brownies

Prep Time:
Preparing the batter takes about 15 minutes. Melting the butter, mixing the ingredients, and pouring it all into the pan is surprisingly quick—no mixer needed. If your ingredients are at room temperature, it’s even faster.

Bake Time:
These brownies bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them toward the end—you want moist crumbs on the toothpick, not wet batter. Then let them cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Homemade Brownies

• Use room temperature eggs to help them blend evenly into the batter.
• Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients. This keeps the texture fudgy.
• Line your pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and perfect edges.
• Chill the brownies for an hour after baking if you want super clean slices.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the richest flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: This is the biggest brownie killer. The edges should be set, but the center should still look slightly underdone.
• Using cold butter: It won’t mix properly and could lead to a greasy batter.
• Skipping the salt: Even a pinch of salt dramatically enhances chocolate flavor.
• Overmixing: Especially after adding flour, this makes the brownies cakey.
• Cutting while hot: They’ll fall apart! Let them cool completely first.

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What to Serve With Homemade Brownies?

1. A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

The classic combo. The warmth of the brownie and cold ice cream contrast perfectly.

2. Fresh Berries

Raspberries or strawberries bring brightness and balance to the rich chocolate.

3. Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds a soft, creamy finish.

4. Espresso or Coffee

The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with sweet, fudgy brownies.

5. Salted Caramel Drizzle

A drizzle of warm caramel over brownies takes decadence to the next level.

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Storage Instructions

At Room Temperature:
Keep brownies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Store them with a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

In the Refrigerator:
If your kitchen runs warm or you like a firmer texture, refrigerate them in a sealed container. Let them come to room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

Freezer Friendly:
You can freeze brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight or microwave in short bursts.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (1 of 9 squares):

• Calories: ~280
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Sugar: 26g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time will increase by about 5–10 minutes.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe without altering the texture much.

What’s the best way to cut brownies cleanly?

Let them cool completely, then use a warm knife (run it under hot water and dry it) for clean slices.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Definitely. Chopped walnuts or pecans are great additions—add about 1/2 cup.

How can I make these extra fudgy?

Use less flour (about 3/4 cup) and don’t overbake them. Also, adding an extra egg yolk helps.

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Conclusion

Homemade brownies are one of those timeless desserts that never go out of style. This recipe is foolproof, quick to throw together, and yields rich, fudgy squares of chocolatey joy. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or a special occasion, these brownies are guaranteed to please. Don’t be surprised if they disappear within minutes!

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