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Fudgy Gooey Brownies

Fudgy Gooey Brownies

Rich, moist brownies with a dense, gooey center and a shiny, crackly top. These fudgy brownies rely on melted butter, high-quality chocolate, and minimal flour for a decadent texture that satisfies any chocolate craving.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Desserts, Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 12 brownies
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 8×8-inch light-colored metal pan Lined with parchment paper for easy removal and even baking.
  • 1 Mixing Bowls For combining ingredients.
  • 1 Whisk For blending eggs, sugar, and melted chocolate smoothly.
  • 1 Spatula For folding dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing.
  • 1 Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl For melting butter and chocolate together without burning.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Melted with chocolate for a rich base.
  • 4 oz Bittersweet chocolate (60-70% cacao) Chopped for smooth melting; bars preferred over chips.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Creates a thin, crisp crust while balancing sweetness.
  • ¾ cup Light brown sugar Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor.
  • 2 large Eggs Room temperature for proper emulsification.
  • 1 large Egg yolk Enhances richness and fudginess.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
  • ½ cup Dutch-process cocoa powder Provides deep chocolate flavor and darker color.
  • ¼ tsp Salt Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate taste.
  • ¾ cup All-purpose flour Sifted for even mixing; minimizes gluten development.

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ cup Semisweet chocolate chips Adds pockets of melted chocolate; use sparingly.
  • ½ cup Chopped walnuts or pecans For added crunch and texture contrast.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Pan:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch light-colored metal pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

    Melt Butter and Chocolate:

    • In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate together until smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Let cool slightly but remain warm.

    Mix Sugars and Wet Ingredients:

    • Whisk granulated sugar and light brown sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until grainy. Add vanilla extract and salt.
    • Beat in the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition. Continue whisking for about 1 minute until the batter becomes glossy and thick.

    Add Dry Ingredients:

    • Sift the cocoa powder and flour into the wet mixture. Fold gently with a spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent gluten development.

    Optional Add-Ins:

    • If using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in gently at this stage.

    Bake the Brownies:

    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is soft but not liquid. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

    Cool and Slice:

    • Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For clean slices, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting.

    Serve:

    • Serve warm or at room temperature. Pair with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 5–10 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
      • Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
      • Customizations: Add espresso powder for enhanced chocolate flavor or swirl in peanut butter for a creamy twist.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are essential for making fudgy gooey brownies?
      • High-quality butter, bittersweet chocolate, eggs, sugar, Dutch-process cocoa powder, and all-purpose flour.
       
    2. How do you ensure brownies are fudgy and not cakey?
      • Use minimal flour, avoid overmixing, and bake until the center is slightly underdone.
       
    3. Can you make fudgy brownies using cocoa powder instead of chocolate?
      • Yes, but combine melted butter with cocoa powder for better texture. Using real chocolate bars is recommended for deeper flavor.
     
    1. What is the difference between fudgy and chewy brownies?
      • Fudgy brownies are dense and moist with a gooey center, while chewy brownies have more structure and bite due to higher flour content.
       
    2. How long should you cook brownies to achieve a gooey texture?
      • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes. The center should look soft but not wet, and a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
       
    3. What are some common mistakes to avoid when baking fudgy brownies?
      • Overbaking, overmixing, using chocolate chips instead of chopped bars, and skipping the cooling step can negatively impact texture and flavor.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor without altering the taste profile.
    • Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with fresh berries for a visually appealing dessert.
    • Leftovers: Reheat leftover brownies briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their gooey texture.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or fresh berries for added flair.
    • Serving Style: Arrange brownie slices neatly on a plate or platter with garnishes like mint leaves or edible flowers.
    • Sides: Serve alongside coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a cozy dessert experience.
     
    Keyword Chocolate Treats, Fudgy Brownies, Gooey Dessert