Craving a rich, chocolatey treat without a lot of fuss? These One-Bowl Fudge Brownies are your new go-to quick dessert recipe. You’ll get perfectly fudgy brownies every time, mixed in just one bowl for easy cleanup.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor. You can use Dutch-processed for a darker brownie.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best. Margarine or plant-based butter alternatives can work.
- Eggs: Large eggs at room temperature give the best texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is ideal for sweetness and structure.
- Vanilla Extract: Essential for flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 9-12 brownies
- Calories per serving: Approx. 250-300 (depending on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, large mixing bowl, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until smooth. Then, whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dry brownies. If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts now.
4. Bake Your Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Avoid overbaking for maximum fudginess.
5. Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and prevents them from crumbling. Enjoy your delicious quick dessert!
Variation Ideas:
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in a few spoonfuls of melted peanut butter before baking.
- Espresso Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Mint Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of mint chocolate chips for a refreshing twist.
- Walnut Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Storage Instructions:
Store your One-Bowl Fudge Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen brownies at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why are my brownies dry?
You likely overbaked them. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove them when a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Can I double this quick dessert recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13 inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed, usually around 30-35 minutes.
What kind of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is best for this recipe. Dutch-processed cocoa will give you a darker, less acidic brownie.
How do I get super fudgy brownies?
Underbake them slightly so the center is still a bit gooey, and let them cool completely before cutting. Using melted butter also helps.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Results may vary slightly.
Do I need to bring the eggs to room temperature?
Yes, room temperature eggs emulsify better with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and a better texture. This is a great quick dessert to master.