World's Best Fudgy Brownies (Printer-Friendly Version)
Rich, fudgy brownies with crackly tops, chewy edges, and intense chocolate flavor for a perfect homemade treat.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Fats and Oils
01 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 -
1/4 cup vegetable oil
→ Sugars
03 -
1 cup granulated sugar
04 -
2/3 cup powdered sugar
→ Eggs and Flavoring
05 -
3 large eggs
06 -
1 additional egg yolk
07 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Chocolate Components
08 -
4 oz bittersweet dark chocolate, chopped
09 -
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
10 -
2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
→ Dry Ingredients
11 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
12 -
3 tablespoons cornstarch
13 -
1/4 teaspoon espresso powder
14 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Optional Mix-ins
15 -
1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang for easy removal.
02 -
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter, vegetable oil, and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
03 -
Add espresso powder and Dutch-process cocoa powder to the melted mixture. Whisk thoroughly to bloom the cocoa and deepen chocolate flavor. Set aside to cool slightly.
04 -
In a separate large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and lighter in color, approximately 3 to 6 minutes.
05 -
Gradually stir the cooled chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture until fully incorporated.
06 -
Sift in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and gently fold them into the batter with a rubber spatula, taking care not to overmix.
07 -
Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and nuts, if desired, evenly distributing them throughout the batter.
08 -
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for about 25 minutes, checking around 23 minutes; the edges should be set and a toothpick inserted centrally should come out with moist crumbs.
09 -
Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing. For cleaner cuts, chill in refrigerator briefly and wipe knife between slices.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy center; the brownies should remain slightly gooey when removed from oven.
02 -
Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor and weigh flour for precision.
03 -
Mix sugars and eggs well to achieve the signature shiny, crackly top.