Description
Not all brownie recipes are created equal. After testing dozens of variations, here’s what separates truly exceptional homemade brownies from the average batch:
- Hot butter + cocoa powder: Melting butter and whisking in cocoa while it’s hot blooms the cocoa and intensifies the chocolate flavor dramatically.
- The right fat ratio: A combination of butter and a touch of oil gives both rich flavor and that silky, smooth bakery texture.
- Brown sugar + granulated sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel depth. Together they create that iconic shiny crinkle top.
- An extra egg yolk: This simple trick adds richness and creates a denser, more luscious fudgy center.
- Minimal flour: Less flour = more fudge. Keep it small and you’ll get those gooey, dense squares every time.
- Don’t overbake: Pull them while the center still looks slightly underdone. They continue setting as they cool.
In the photo featured with this recipe, you can see exactly what these brownies look like when done right: three thick, deeply chocolatey squares stacked on a wooden cutting board, with glossy chocolate ganache dripping down the sides. The crinkle top catches the light, and you can spot pockets of gooey melted chocolate throughout. That visual alone should convince you to start preheating your oven right now.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients for the Best Brownies Better Than Bakery
This recipe makes 16 generous brownies. All ingredients are simple pantry staples.
Dry Ingredients
- ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred for richer flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (130g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Brownies Better Than Bakery
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch (or 8×8-inch for thicker brownies) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on both sides for easy removal. Spray lightly with non-stick spray.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. As soon as it’s fully melted, remove from heat and immediately whisk in the cocoa powder. The heat will bloom the cocoa and deepen its flavor. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Whisk in both sugars until fully combined. The mixture should look thick and glossy.
- Add the eggs and extra yolk one at a time, whisking vigorously for a full 60 seconds after each addition. This is your key to a shiny top. Add the vanilla extract and oil, and whisk again.
- Fold in the flour and salt using a rubber spatula. Stir just until no flour streaks remain — do not overmix. The batter will be thick and glossy.
- Fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs — never completely clean, or they’re overbaked.
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan — at least 1–2 hours — before lifting out and slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut for professional-looking squares.
Nutritional Values (Per Brownie, Based on 16 Servings)
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
- Carbohydrates: 29g (Sugar: 22g)
- Protein: 2.5g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sodium: 85mg
These are estimates and may vary based on chocolate chip brand and exact measurements.
Instructions
Brownie Presentation Tips: Serve Like a Pro
A beautifully presented brownie is half the pleasure. Here are some ways to elevate your brownies better than bakery when serving:
- Warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: The contrast between warm fudgy brownie and cold ice cream is absolutely divine.
- Drizzle with chocolate ganache: Simply heat equal parts heavy cream and chopped chocolate, let cool slightly, then drizzle over cut brownies for a stunning finish — just like the photo.
- Dust with flaky sea salt: A pinch right after baking intensifies the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Serve on a wooden board: Stack 2–3 brownies for height in photos and presentations. The rustic look is irresistibly inviting.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder: For a classic, elegant touch at dinner parties.
Best Pairings for Brownies Better Than Bakery
Drinks That Complement Fudgy Brownies
- Cold brew coffee or espresso: The bitterness cuts through the chocolate richness perfectly.
- Red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot): The tannic, fruity notes create a sophisticated pairing for dinner parties.
- Warm vanilla milk or oat milk: Comforting and kid-friendly.
- Ruby port: A luxurious dessert wine that elevates brownies to a gourmet experience.
For non-alcoholic celebrations, a tall glass of ice-cold whole milk remains the timeless classic pairing that never disappoints.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Fun Variations to Try
- Salted caramel swirl brownies: Drop spoonfuls of salted caramel sauce on top of the batter and swirl with a toothpick before baking.
- Peanut butter brownies: Swirl in 3–4 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter before baking.
- Walnut or pecan brownies: Fold in ½ cup of roughly chopped toasted nuts for crunch.
- Espresso brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the wet ingredients for an intense mocha flavor.
- Mint chocolate brownies: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes after baking.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Butter alternative: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Egg substitute: Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba (chickpea brine) per egg for a vegan option.
- Gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Reduced sugar: You can reduce the sugar to 1¼ cups total without significantly affecting texture.