Try Once Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square or 9-inch round baking pan with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter, then set aside.

Combine dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk 1 cup whole milk, 2 large eggs, 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy.

Make the batter

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined — a few small streaks of flour are okay. Do not overmix to keep the texture tender.

Fold in mix-ins

Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips or berries gently until evenly distributed. If using berries, toss them in a tablespoon of flour first to prevent heavy sinking.

Transfer to pan

Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top gently.

Bake

Bake in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 22–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Start checking at 22 minutes.

Cool and finish

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and transfer to the rack to cool further if desired. Dust with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar before serving, if using. Cut into 9 squares or 8 slices.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a microwave (10–20 seconds) or a low oven (300°F / 150°C) for 5–8 minutes.