Description
These Best Cocoa Fudge Brownies deliver rich, gooey chocolate perfection with a deep cocoa flavor intensified by optional espresso powder. Featuring a tender, fudgy texture and a shiny, crackled top, these brownies are easy to prepare, baked in just under 30 minutes, and perfect for chocolate lovers looking for an indulgent homemade treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (43g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter
- 2 Tablespoons (28ml) oil (canola, vegetable, or coconut)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional)
Sugar
- 1 and 1/3 cups (265g) granulated sugar, divided
Additional
- 3/4 cup (128 grams) chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, lightly spray with non-stick baking spray, and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsweetened cocoa powder, and optional espresso powder. Set this mix aside for later use.
- Melt Butter Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, oil, and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Stir frequently until the butter is fully melted, then remove from heat.
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract if using, and the remaining granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 30 seconds.
- Combine Butter with Eggs: Gradually pour the warm butter mixture into the egg mixture very slowly while continually whisking to prevent cooking the eggs. Continue whisking until the mixtures are fully combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips: Incorporate the prepared dry ingredients and chocolate chips into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to over mix to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Transfer Batter: Scrape the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 28 to 30 minutes or until the edges are firm and the top has developed a shiny, slightly cracked appearance.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing and serving to retain their fudgy texture.
Notes
- For a coffee flavor boost, include the espresso powder; omit if sensitive or averse to coffee flavor.
- Do not over mix the batter once dry ingredients are added to avoid cakey brownies.
- Let the brownies cool completely for best slicing results.
- Use a sharp knife warmed slightly with hot water and wiped dry for clean cuts.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownies, fudge brownies, cocoa brownies, chocolate dessert, baked brownies, easy brownie recipe
