Brownies
Brownies Say it: BROW-neez
Brownies are a classic American chocolate dessert with a rich, fudgy center and a crackly top. Originating in the United States at the end of the 19th century, they are a staple at bake sales, potlucks, and family gatherings. The perfect brownie balances deep chocolate flavor with a moist, dense texture that melts in your mouth. Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, they showcase the best of American home baking.
Brownies
Brownies
Pronounced BROW-neez
- Serves
- 9
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Level
- Easy
Allergens: contains gluten, milk, egg, nuts. Check labels on packaged ingredients.
Ingredients
Amounts are scaled. Cooking times and pan sizes stay the same.
Method
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Whisk the sugar into the chocolate mixture until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt over the chocolate mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined and no streaks of flour remain.
Fold in the chopped nuts if using. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 22–27 minutes until the top is set, shiny, and crackly but the center still feels slightly soft when gently pressed.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment overhang to lift out, then cut into 9 squares.
Regional variants
Cakey brownies use more flour and less chocolate; blondies replace the cocoa and chocolate with brown sugar and vanilla. Modern versions often add chocolate chips, peanut butter swirls, or sea salt on top.
Cook's notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, err on the shorter baking time and use an instant-read thermometer—the center should reach about 205°F (96°C).
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the texture tender.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Serve with
A cold glass of milk, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.
Make ahead and storage
Brownies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
