Chocolate Brownie Recipe
Warmed with a dollop of whipped cream
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Ingredients
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Brownie batter
Optional mix-ins
To serve
Method
Brownie batter
- 1
Prepare and preheat
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and lightly butter or spray the parchment.
- 2
Melt chocolate and butter
In a heatproof bowl set over (but not touching) gently simmering water, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate and butter. Stir occasionally until fully melted and smooth, about 3–5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between bursts, until melted. Remove from heat and let cool 3–5 minutes.
- 3
Mix sugars and eggs
Whisk the granulated sugar and light brown sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until the mixture is glossy. Whisk in the vanilla extract.
- 4
Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift (or whisk) together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, fine salt, and the optional espresso powder. This removes lumps and ensures even distribution.
- 5
Fold together batter
Fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix. If using mix-ins (nuts or extra chips), fold them in now.
- 6
Transfer and bake
Scrape the batter into the prepared 8x8 pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 22–28 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (for fudgy brownies). For a cakier texture, bake a few minutes longer.
- 7
To serve
- 8
Portion brownies into squares (about 9 servings from an 8x8). If you want them warmed, heat individual squares in a microwave-safe plate for 10–15 seconds (microwave strength varies) or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
- 9
Top each warm brownie with approximately 1 tablespoon (a dollop) of whipped cream. If using ice cream, add a scoop alongside or on top. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
- 10
Serve immediately while the brownie is warm and the whipped cream begins to soften slightly for a pleasant contrast of temperatures and textures.