Easy Chocolate Brownies

2381

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Melt the Butter:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

  • Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted butter until well combined.

4. Add Dry Ingredients:

  • Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Add Optional Ingredients:

  • If using, fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts.

6. Bake the Brownies:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake for fudgier brownies.

7. Cool and Serve:

  • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
  • Serve as is or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.

Enjoy your easy, homemade chocolate brownies! They are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.